These days, there’s an injectable for almost every aesthetic need and concern. Want a fuller figure or to combat volume loss? There is an injection for that. And of course, science is constantly evolving, with new and improved forms and formulations constantly coming to market. Case in point: Daxxify. The neuromodulator was first approved by the FDA for the temporary relaxation of deep wrinkles in late 2022 and has grown in popularity over the last year. But what makes Daxxify different from other alternatives on the market? We asked double board certified plastic surgeon dr. Melissa Doft for details on why Daxxify is a great choice to incorporate into your non-invasive facial regimen.
What is Daxxify? Can you explain what peptide-enhanced injectable means?
Dr. Doft: Daxxify is the newest neurotoxin formula. It is a peptide-enhanced botulinum toxin which means it uses peptide technology to better deliver botulinum toxin to nerve cells, which works to temporarily block communication between the nerve cell and its target muscle, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Ultimately, how this translates into the patient experience is this the onset of action of the toxin is faster (you see wrinkles fading from day 2-3) and works for a longer period of time.
How is Daxxify different from Botox?
Dr. Doft: The neurotoxin is the same in both, it’s called botulinum toxin A. The difference is that Daxxify does not contain human serum albumin, while Botox is for stability. Daxxify uses peptides to stabilize the product and enhance the binding of the toxin to its target cell, the neuron.
Approximately how long should a patient expect Daxxify to last as opposed to Botox injections?
Dr. Doft: In my practice, most patients have seen it last about 50 percent longer than other neuromodulators. For example, if you find that Botox takes two months, Daxxify often takes 3.5 months, or if Botox takes about 3 months, Daxxify can take about 4.5 months. It depends on each individual patient.
Is Daxxify more expensive than other neuromodulators?
Dr. Doft: Yes. Since it is an improved technology and lasts longer, most doctors charge more for the toxin. How much more varies between practitioners. At my practice we change $100 extra per area.
Are there areas of the face that Daxxify is particularly good at treating?
Dr. Doft: Daxxify can be used in all areas where we normally use Botox, Dysport, Xeomin or Jeuveau. One of my favorite spots to treat with Daxxify are difficult lines (or 11). I find that Daxxify often works best on patients with previously difficult to treat areas such as stubborn 11 lines or crow’s feet. It is also a great product for patients who feel that Botox wears off too quickly for them or for those who live far from their chosen practitioners as they need fewer treatments over the course of the year.
Why might Daxxify be an attractive switch for someone who has had Botox treatments in the past?
Dr. Doft: There are three areas where Daxxify differentiates itself. The first is that the onset of action is faster due to the peptide technology. Most patients, or at least most Manhattan patients, want the toxin to work very quickly, and patients often see Daxxify working within days. And of course, Daxxify lasts longer so there are fewer visits to the doctor and as a result fewer needle sticks and less potential bruising. But for me, the best aspect of Daxxify is that it feels different. It feels lighter. The forehead doesn’t feel as icy. In many ways it feels more natural.
What about the risks or side effects? Who should avoid it?
Dr. Doft: Sick as he is pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid all neurotoxins. If you are allergic to Botox, avoid Daxxify as the toxin is the same. The most common risk is bruising at the injection site. Patients may also experience a headache after the injection. In some cases, if the toxin migrates, it can cause eyelid ptosis (drooping eyelid) or asymmetry with muscle contraction (this means you probably need more Daxxify to treat the area with more movement).
How should one prepare for Daxxify injections and what is recovery like?
Dr. Doft: As a rule, avoid blood thinners before injection as they may lead to increased bruising (this includes: aspirin, NSAIDs and fish oil). On the day of the procedure, relax and avoid vigorous exercise.
As Associate Digital Lifestyle Director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel.
