Botox vs. Dysport – Top 3 Things You Need to Know When Choosing Your Neurotoxin
So, what’s the real deal? What’s the difference between Botox and Dysport (pronounced DIS-port)?
And now there are 5 neuromodulators (wrinkle-relaxers) on the US market – Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau and Daxxify.
For perspective, as an injector I’ve used all (except the newest – Daxxify) and quite frankly only need Botox and Dysport in my clinic. Why? I think they do everything that I need for my patients.
Here’s the background. Botox Cosmetic by Allergan was FDA approved in 2002. It had already been in the medical arena since 1991 when it was being used for things like spastic bladder and blepharospasm (twitching eye.) In 2009, Dysport by Galderma was FDA approved for cosmetic use. Then came along Xeomin by Metz in 2010. The newest two – Jeuveau and Daxxify arrived 2019 and 2022, respectively.
Then why do you hear so much more about Botox? Well, they have an amazing marketing team. It’s like Jacuzzi is to hot tubs and Kleenex is to tissue. Botox is just the well-known name that has become synonymous with relaxing muscles and softening wrinkles.
Let’s talk about Botox and Dysport specifically.
In reality, I describe them as Coke and Pepsi. Essentially the same product, made by different manufacturers.
The true difference between all of them is the carrier/accessory proteins (or lack thereof) that are around the Botulinum toxin A. (And they are ALL Botulinum toxin A once those proteins are shed.)
Do they ultimately do the same thing? Pretty much.
Are they both safe? Of course.
Do they cost the same? Depends on the practice.
Does one have more side effects? No.
So, then which one should you choose? Here are my top 3 things you should consider when picking a neuromodulator.
1. Longevity
In head to head studies, Dysport does seem to start working slightly faster than Botox. Expect effects of Dysport maybe at day 5-7 and Botox maybe 7-10. (Is it sometimes sooner? Yes!).
And, I’ve noticed that most of my patients report is lasting longer too! Maybe 3.5-4.5 months as compared to Botox’s 3-4 months.
2. Lifestyle
Anecdotally, I’ve heard from many of my patients that Dysport seems to last longer in general. However, it seems even more apparent in high-metabolizers – think heavy exercisers, runners, etc.
3. Ultimate Goals
Again, completely anecdotal, but many of my patients have also reported that Dysport gives a “less heavy” feeling. This is mostly noticed when treating the forehead wrinkles.
Clinically there are certain times when I’ll suggest switching, too. For example, if you’ve been using Botox for years and it’s just not working the same way it was before (not lasting as long, not giving the same result), I’ll suggest trying something new. Maybe one or the other gave you a headache the last time you had it injected. Then maybe it’s time to try something new.
Either way, you’ll find what works best for you and your metabolism, muscles, facial anatomy. Let your experienced provider help you navigate.
Are you ready for your consultation with me? Call/text Holden Timeless Beauty at 760.274.3160. I can’t wait to meet you!
Want to save on your first Dysport treatment? Sign up for Aspire HERE.
Are you a Botox lover? Sign up for Alle HERE.