Becko
If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and wondered about smoothing a line or plumping your pout, you’re definitely not alone. The world of aesthetic treatments has become more accessible than ever, with lip fillers and Botox leading the charge. But what’s the difference between lip fillers vs Botox? Are they both injections? Can they be used together? And how do you reduce bruising after lip fillers? Let’s talk it all through in a real, no-jargon way—because if you’re thinking about dabbling in tweakments, it’s important to know exactly what you’re signing up for.
First Things First: What Are Lip Fillers and Botox?
Let’s break it down.
Lip fillers (often made of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in your skin) are injectable gels used to add volume, shape, and definition to your lips. They’re ideal if you want a fuller pout, to balance uneven lips, or just to add a bit of hydration and shape as you age.
Botox, on the other hand, is a brand name for botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin that temporarily freezes the muscles that cause wrinkles. It’s usually used to treat frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and even to help with jaw slimming or excessive sweating.
So in the lip filler vs Botox debate, think of it like this: lip fillers add volume; Botox smooths lines caused by movement.
Lip Fillers vs Injections – Wait, Aren’t They Both Injections?
Great question! Technically, yes—both lip fillers and Botox are delivered via injections, but they do very different things.
When people say “lip fillers vs injections,” they’re often using “injections” to mean Botox, but it’s worth remembering that both treatments involve a needle. The confusion tends to come from how they’re marketed—Botox is sometimes referred to as “anti-wrinkle injections” while lip fillers are a type of dermal filler injection.
So if you’re wondering whether to go for lip filler vs Botox, ask yourself: do you want to add volume or soften lines?
What’s the Experience Like?
Honestly? It’s not as scary as it sounds.
With lip fillers, the procedure takes around 15–30 minutes. Your practitioner will often use a numbing cream, so it’s more of a weird pressure than a sharp pain. You might feel a slight sting, and afterwards your lips will likely be swollen and tender for a day or two.
Botox, by contrast, is usually quicker—think 10 to 15 minutes. There’s no numbing cream, but the needle is super fine, and most people describe it as a tiny pinch. You may have a few small red marks afterwards, but they fade quickly.
Both treatments are minimally invasive and require little downtime. You can go straight back to work if you fancy, though many people prefer to take the rest of the day off just in case there’s a bit of swelling or bruising.
Results: When Do They Kick In?
Patience is key, but not for long.
-
Lip fillers usually show results immediately, although you’ll see the “final” look after about a week once any swelling has gone down. You can read more about Volbella lip fillers in my post.
-
Botox takes a little longer—typically 3 to 7 days to kick in, with full results visible at around 2 weeks.
Neither is permanent. Lip fillers tend to last between 6 to 12 months, depending on your metabolism and the product used. Botox wears off after 3 to 4 months, although some people see it last longer with regular treatments.
Can You Have Both?
Yes—and many people do!
This isn’t an either/or situation. In fact, combining lip filler and Botox can be incredibly effective, depending on your goals. For example, some people have fillers to plump their lips and Botox in their forehead to soften lines. You can even use a small amount of Botox around the lips in what’s known as a “lip flip“, where the top lip subtly flips upward to enhance your pout without adding volume.
What About Side Effects?
This is the bit everyone secretly worries about—but let’s demystify it.
With lip fillers, the most common side effects are swelling, tenderness, and bruising. That’s totally normal and usually fades within a few days. Occasionally, you might see some lumpiness, but a good practitioner can usually smooth this out easily.
With Botox, you might have tiny red dots where the injections went in, or in rare cases, a mild headache or slight droopiness if it spreads to the wrong muscle—but that’s why it’s essential to see a qualified, experienced injector.
How to Reduce Bruising After Lip Fillers
One of the biggest concerns people have is how to reduce bruising after lip fillers. While a bit of bruising is common (you are having needles in your lips, after all!), there are a few simple things you can do to minimise it:
-
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after treatment – it thins the blood.
-
Skip ibuprofen and aspirin unless advised otherwise – they also thin the blood and make bruising more likely.
-
Use arnica cream – a natural remedy that helps reduce swelling and bruising.
-
Apply a cold compress gently after your treatment.
-
Sleep slightly elevated – a couple of pillows under your head can help reduce overnight swelling.
-
No exercise or heavy lifting for at least 24 hours after the treatment.
Stick to these and you’ll be helping your lips heal beautifully.
Who Should You Trust?
This cannot be overstated: Always go to a qualified medical professional. That means a doctor, dentist, or nurse who is trained and experienced in aesthetic procedures.
In the UK, the aesthetics industry is still largely unregulated, so do your homework. Check reviews, ask to see before and after photos, and make sure your practitioner is insured. If a deal looks too good to be true… it probably is.
Confidence vs Comparison
Before we get into the FAQs, a quick note from one human to another: you don’t need anything to be beautiful. These treatments can be a great confidence boost if they’re something you want for you. But they’re never something you should feel pressured to have because of a trend or someone else’s idea of beauty.
Whether you choose lip fillers, Botox, both, or neither—it’s all valid.
FAQs: Lip Fillers vs Botox
Q: What’s the difference between lip filler and Botox?
A: Lip fillers add volume and shape to the lips. Botox freezes the muscles that cause wrinkles. They do very different things and are often used together for overall facial rejuvenation.
Q: Are lip fillers or Botox more painful?
A: Most people say lip fillers are slightly more uncomfortable due to the sensitive area and volume of product used. Botox is quicker and involves smaller needles, with many describing it as just a pinch.
Q: Can you get Botox in your lips?
A: Kind of. There’s a treatment called the “lip flip” where a small amount of Botox is used just above the upper lip to relax the muscle and flip the lip out slightly. But for actual volume, you’ll need lip fillers.
Q: How long do results last?
A: Lip fillers typically last 6–12 months. Botox lasts 3–4 months. Your metabolism, lifestyle, and frequency of treatment all play a role in how long results stay.
Q: What’s the best way to reduce bruising after lip fillers?
A: Avoid alcohol, ibuprofen, and strenuous exercise before and after your treatment. Use arnica cream, apply a cold compress, and sleep with your head elevated to help reduce swelling and bruising.
Q: Can I wear makeup after getting lip fillers or Botox?
A: It’s best to avoid makeup on the treated areas for at least 24 hours to prevent infection. Let your skin breathe and heal.
Q: Will I look ‘done’ or unnatural?
A: Not if you go to someone reputable. A good practitioner will work with your natural features to enhance, not change them. The key is subtlety.
Lip Fillers vs Botox – So, What’s Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between lip fillers vs Botox depends on what you want to achieve. If you’re dreaming of fuller, more defined lips, lip fillers are your go-to. If you’re hoping to soften frown lines or keep your forehead smooth, Botox is the one.
There’s no shame in exploring tweakments, and no pressure to go all-in, either. Start small. Have a consultation. Ask lots of questions. And remember—it’s all about feeling good in your own skin.
Whether it’s a plumper pout, a smoother forehead, or simply understanding what’s out there—now you’re clued up, confident, and ready to decide what (if anything!) feels right for you.