Botox and Dysport are both injectable neuromodulators containing botulinum toxin type A. They work similarly to relax wrinkle-causing facial muscles, smoothing out existing lines and preventing new ones. But there are some notable differences between Botox vs Dysport related to dilution, diffusion, longevity, pricing, and best uses. Read on as we break down the distinctions between these two popular anti-aging treatments.
How Do Botox and Dysport Work?
While derived from different strains, Botox and Dysport share the same core active ingredient – botulinum toxin type A. This neurotoxin works by blocking nerve signals to the muscles in areas where it is injected. With the nerves temporarily disabled, the muscles can’t contract as forcefully, which means the overlying skin doesn’t crease and wrinkle with repetitive facial expressions.
Both injectables relax the muscles to smooth current wrinkles. With continued periodic treatments, they can also prevent new wrinkles from etching into the skin over time. The results are visible within a few days and optimal within 1-2 weeks.
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Aspect | Botox | Dysport |
|---|---|---|
FDA Approval | Approved in 1989 (cosmetic use in 2002) | Approved in 2009
|
Wrinkle Treatment | Effective for fine lines and wrinkles | Primarily treats moderate to severe forehead and glabellar lines
|
Concentration | More concentrated | More diluted
|
Price | Higher price per unit | Lower price per unit
|
Spread and Diffusion | Slower and localized spread | Faster and broader spread
|
Ideal Areas | Small areas (e.g., Crow’s feet) | Large surface areas (e.g., forehead)
|
Duration | 3-4 months (up to 6 months in some cases) | 3-4 months
|
Side Effects | Similar potential side effects | Similar potential side effects |
Combining with Other Treatments | Can be combined with fillers and other treatments
| Can be combined with fillers and other treatments
|
Expert’s Selection | Expert injector chooses based on specific treatment goals | Expert injector selects based on the patient’s needs
|
Major Differences Between Botox and Dysport Injections
There are a few key differences between these two wrinkle-relaxing injectables:
Concentration –
Dysport contains a lower concentration of botulinum toxin A than Botox. It is more diluted, with 2.5 times less active toxin per milliliter.
Diffusion –
Because it is more diluted, Dysport tends to diffuse through the injection site faster. This allows it to spread over a larger surface area.
Best uses –
With its concentrated formula, Botox works well for localized fine lines around the eyes, lips, and neck. The wider-spreading Dysport treats broader wrinkled areas effectively, like the forehead or frown lines between the brows.
Pricing –
While Dysport uses more units per treatment area, the cost per unit is lower than Botox. So when factoring in the number of units needed, the overall cost per session is typically comparable.
Longevity of Results
Both Botox and Dysport smooth wrinkles temporarily. With muscle contraction limited, the overlying skin remains smooth for several months. Botox results typically last 3-4 months, sometimes extending up to 6 months depending on the patient and area treated. Dysport also remains effective for 3-4 months before follow-up injections are required.
The Injection Process
The process for receiving Botox or Dysport wrinkle relaxer injections is essentially the same:
- Thorough consultation to evaluate wrinkles and develop a treatment plan
- Face cleaned and injection sites marked
- Topical numbing cream applied for comfort
- Precise injections administered with a very fine needle
- Results visible within days and optimal in 1-2 weeks
Both treatments take only about 10-15 minutes to perform. Some mild swelling, redness, or tenderness may occur at injection sites but this resolves quickly.
Potential Side Effects
When performed by an experienced, licensed medical professional, serious side effects are rare. Temporary mild headaches, swelling at injection sites, and bruising can sometimes occur. Drooping eyelids or asymmetrical appearance are also possible if the neurotoxin spreads, but this is avoidable with proper injection technique.
Choosing the Best Injectable for Your Needs
Botox and Dysport are both excellent options for smoothing away wrinkles and lines on the upper face. Choosing between them depends on each patient’s unique facial anatomy, muscle thickness, extent of wrinkles, and treatment goals.
During your consultation at DrSkin Med Spa, we carefully assess your skin, facial movements, and areas of concern. We then provide expert recommendations on which neuromodulator – Botox, Dysport, or a combination – will give you the most natural, optimal rejuvenation.
Trust the anti-aging specialists at DrSkin Med Spa to customize your injectable treatment plan. With an artistic eye and advanced techniques, we help patients look smooth and youthful while still retaining natural facial expressions. Contact us today to schedule your Botox or Dysport consultation!
