Many of us eventually face the Dysport vs. Botox question in the quest for smoother, younger-looking skin. Both promise to minimize fine lines and wrinkles – and even prevent them from forming – but which one is right for you?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, we’re here to help you understand the differences so you can make the best choice for your skin. But first…
Dysport vs. Botox: What Exactly Are They?
Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) are both brand names for medications derived from botulinum toxin type A (as the scientific names imply!).
Used in tiny, controlled amounts, this toxin is a proven, powerful tool for smoothing wrinkles. It achieves this by blocking the nerve signals to the muscles causing the wrinkles so they don’t contract and form the wrinkle.
However, Dysport and Botox do have slightly different formulations.
Dysport’s molecules are a bit smaller and have less protein buffering them. The result is they tend to spread out a bit more once injected. This makes it a great choice for covering larger areas like the forehead with fewer injection points.
Botox stays more localized to the injection site. Its tighter spread can be an advantage for very fine lines in a small spot.
Where can Botox and Dysport be used?
Dysport is approved only for moderate to severe glabellar lines – the frown lines between your eyebrows – to prevent specific movement of your muscles that cause these lines.
Botox is approved for not only glabellar lines but also forehead lines (i.e., the horizontal ones) and crow’s feet (the fine lines around the corners of your eyes).
In practice, doctors use Botox in many areas of the face to smooth wrinkles. And some providers also carefully use Botox under eyes to soften fine lines.
Is it Safe to Get Botox?
Absolutely! Decades of use and clinical studies have shown that when a qualified professional administers them, Dysport and Botox are very safe, FDA-approved, non-surgical treatments for cosmetic use.
The doses are so small that the effect stays localized to the injection area. Your whole face doesn’t end up paralyzed, and you’ll notice that the wrinkles in the treated area gradually ease up.
How Much is a Botox Treatment?
Prices can vary quite a bit depending on your location and the provider’s expertise. Generally, the costs of Botox and Dysport are in the same ballpark. But Dysport often comes out less per session for various reasons.
At LifeMed, we encourage you to come in for a consultation so we can discuss your cosmetic goals and exactly what will help you reach them – and you can then choose between Dysport vs. Botox knowledgeably.
How Long Does it Take for Botox to Work?
If you’re impatient to see those wrinkles smoothed out (and who isn’t?!), you’ll be thrilled to find out how quickly each one kicks in.
This is a spot where Dysport often gets the edge. Dysport tends to show effect sooner, sometimes within a few days after injection. Botox, by contrast, usually starts showing effect within a week. Full results can take up to 1 month as the muscle-relaxing effect settles in. That said, this varies, with some people seeing fast results with Botox. But generally, Dysport works a bit quicker.
How Long Does Botox Last?
The good news is that they are very similar in duration. Both Botox and Dysport results last up to 4-5 months on average, but this can vary from person to person.
Some people metabolize the toxin faster (especially those physically active or with high metabolisms). They see the effects wear off closer to 3 months. Others, especially first-timers with weaker muscles, might enjoy results for 5-6 months.
How Often Can You Get Botox?
Generally, every three months is safe and typical. We don’t recommend getting touch-ups too frequently – not because it’s dangerous, but because your body might develop antibodies if overexposed. It’s worth noting that, as Dysport contains fewer proteins, you’re less likely to produce antibodies and develop immunity.
But in terms of frequency, you don’t want to waste product on a muscle that’s already maximally relaxed.
So – most providers will suggest 3 to 4 times a year as needed. If you notice the effect wearing off at month 3, you can schedule your next appointment. If you’re still happy at month 4, you could wait until month 5.
Remember that even when the toxin wears off completely, your wrinkles won’t be worse than before. You might well be better off than if you’d never had the treatment – you’ve essentially given those wrinkle-forming muscles a break for a few months.
Dysport vs. Botox – Which One is Right for You?
Now to the million-dollar question: Which one should you choose for a smoother face?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. But that’s actually a good thing because it means you have options and flexibility. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- The best way to decide is to consult a trusted injector. They can assess your facial anatomy and the depth of your wrinkles and discuss your goals.
- If you’ve tried one product and were curious about the other, it could be worth trying the other next time.
- Consider what you’re treating. Some practitioners recommend Dysport for broader areas like the forehead. But for a small area like a single persistent frown line, Botox might be the go-to solution.
- If you need quick results, Dysport might be better for faster onset.
At LifeMed It’s Your Choice of Dysport vs. Botox
If smoother skin and a confidence boost are on your wish list, consider searching for “Botox near me” and reach out to a qualified professional for guidance. At LifeMed, we offer both Botox and Dysport, and we’ll discuss your options to help you choose what’s right for you.
However, in the dilemma of Dysport vs. Botox, whatever you choose will help you enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence.
Our injectable experts love non-surgical aesthetic enhancements and continue their aesthetics training regularly to ensure they’re up to date on the latest techniques.
Come in for a consultation and let’s talk about removing wrinkles!