Essence Medical Cosmetic Clinic is the first clinic in Scotland to receive and inject Nuceiva. For 4 years in a row, we have been voted the ‘best Botox clinic in Glasgow’ and one of Scotland’s most established and respected cosmetic clinics.
Being the first clinic in Scotland and one of the first in the United Kingdom to use Nuceiva, our cosmetic doctor, Dr Kieren Bong, has extensive experience injecting this new neurotoxin. So here is the million-dollar question: what is the difference between Botox and Nuceiva?
What is Nuceiva?
Marketed in North America under the name Jeuveau, this new type of neurotoxin received FDA clearance in 2019. In Canada, it is widely known as ‘NEWTOX’ – suggesting what Nuceiva offers: a new Botox alternative.
Nuceiva, like Botox, uses purified botulinum toxin to temporarily relax the small muscle groups that cause dynamic facial wrinkles. When injected into muscle tissue, Nuceiva (and Botox) blocks nerve signals so that the brain can no longer instruct treated muscles to move.
What is the difference between Botox and Nuceiva?
If you think, “Nuceiva sounds much like Botox, “you are not alone. You are on the right track. Nuceiva and Botox are two very similar products. However, there are nuanced differences between them which may make one a better option for some patients.
Nuceiva and Botox are made by different manufacturers and produced in other countries. For example, botox is made by Allergan and manufactured in Ireland, whereas Evolus in South Korea produce Nuceiva. Nuceiva also uses a slightly different form of botulinum toxin, i.e., Botox contains onabotulinum toxin-A, and Nuceiva contains prabotulinum toxin-A.
To help you understand both these products a little better, let us compare a few essential factors.
Manufacturing: same ingredients, different recipe
Botox Nuceiva and Botox are injectable neurotoxins made from botulinum toxin type A. Injectable neurotoxin is commonly known as ‘neuromodulator’.
We understand that there are minor differences in both products’ manufacturing and purification processes. Consequently, Botox may be more effective for certain patients, while Nuceiva may be a better option for others.
What we know is that Nuceiva was specifically developed for cosmetic use. In contrast, Botox was initially formulated as a medication to treat an eyelid muscle disorder and has since been approved for various medical conditions.
Safety: both products have excellent safety profiles
While Nuceiva is the ‘new kid on the block’, botulinum toxin type A has been used safely for aesthetic patients for over 30 years.
Treatment experience: you will not notice any difference!
If you have ever had a Botox injection, you can expect the same experience with Nuceiva. Dr Bong’s Botox injections are renowned for being virtually pain-free, and the same applies to Nuceiva.
Final thoughts on Nuceiva vs Botox
According to clinical trials, both products share a similar safety profile and are equally effective for treating dynamic wrinkles. So, is one better than the other? The short answer to this question is no. The choice will depend on your doctor’s clinical judgement, recommendations, and preference.
Crucially, the hands behind the needle are the most critical factor for your Nuceiva or Botox treatment. Never look for the lowest price when considering treatments. Insist that you are treated by an expert injector who fully understands facial anatomy, how these products work, and who will inject it correctly and in the correct dose.
