What is it? Xeomin is a new Health Canada-approved injectable to treat frown lines. Like Botox, it is an botulinum toxin that is injected into muscles using a tiny needle (like the ones used on baby skin and diabetics).

So what’s different about it? Xeomin is processed in a way that removes the complexing proteins. Whether that makes a significant difference to the patient’s results is still unclear. Xeomin has been used in Europe since 2005, while Botox Cosmetic has been used in Canada for over a decade. Botulinum toxin has been documented to be a safe and effective way to treat the muscles of facial expression.

Where can you treat? Xeomin Cosmetic is approved for the treatment of the glabellar lines (skin-speak for the vertical lines known as the “11′s” which show up between the eyebrows in your mid thirties). Here’s a diagram of where the needle might go. 

Botox Cosmetic is approved for use in three facial areas: vertical frown lines, forehead wrinkles, and crow’s feet.

How long does the procedure take? 10-20 minutes. It is considered a lunch hour treatment.

What should I expect following treatment? Temporary swelling, slight bruising. You’ll notice a difference within 48 hours, with full results in 7 to 10 days. One argument from Xeomin manufacturers is that it has a quicker onset time than Botox.

Cost? Starts at $250 per treatment (like Botox)