Quick answer
Botulinum toxin works on muscles and softens the lines that appear with movement (forehead, frown lines, crow’s feet). Hyaluronic acid is a gel that restores volume and hydration and treats folds, loss of contour or lips. They are not alternatives: they address different issues and are sometimes combined. The doctor decides at the assessment.
What botulinum toxin does
Botulinum toxin type A is a prescription-only medicine. Injected in small doses into specific muscles, it reduces the strength of contraction and softens dynamic lines, the ones that form when you frown, squint or raise your eyebrows.
The effect starts to show within a few days and usually lasts a few months; duration varies from person to person. At Mya, this procedure is performed by the doctor as part of our expression line treatment.
What hyaluronic acid does
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the skin. In fillers it is used as a gel to restore volume, soften folds (such as nasolabial folds), define contours or hydrate and shape the lips. It mainly treats static lines and volume loss, visible even when the face is at rest.
It is a medical procedure with its own risks and requires knowledge of facial anatomy. Read more on our hyaluronic acid page.
Want to know if it suits you? See our Expression line treatment page or book an assessment.
Main differences, side by side
- Where it works: the toxin works on the muscle; hyaluronic acid works on tissue volume and hydration.
- What it treats: expression lines (toxin) versus folds, volume loss and contour (hyaluronic acid).
- When you see it: the toxin takes a few days; the filler is visible straight after, with some initial swelling.
- How long it lasts: both are temporary and duration depends on the area, the product and each person.
When they are combined
Facial ageing often brings both: more active muscles and loss of volume. In those cases the doctor may suggest a step-by-step plan, with toxin in one area and hyaluronic acid in another. This planning approach is the basis of facial harmonisation.
Aftercare and possible side effects
Redness, small bruises, swelling or discomfort at the injection site may occur. There are also contraindications, such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, some neuromuscular conditions or active infection in the area. That is why every treatment starts with an assessment of your medical history.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have both on the same day?
In some cases, yes. It depends on the areas, your medical history and the plan defined by the doctor at the assessment.
Which one lasts longer?
Both are temporary. Duration varies with the area treated, the product used and each person’s response, so the doctor explains what to expect in your case.
Will it look unnatural?
The aim is to soften and balance while respecting your expression. Dose and plan are defined at the assessment, according to your face.
How much does it cost?
The price depends on the plan. It is shared at the consultation, before any treatment.
Take the first step with an assessment
At the consultation, the doctor examines you, explains the options and tells you clearly what is and is not suitable in your case.
Reference sources: Infarmed — Medicines information (SmPC and leaflet) · American Academy of Dermatology · NHS — Cosmetic procedures
Informational content prepared by the Mya Clínica team. It does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary from person to person and are not guaranteed. Mya Clínica · CÉLULA ÁUREA – UNIPESSOAL LDA · ERS registration E178305, E178306, E178307 · Operating licence no. 26007/2025.
