Two of the most used injectable neuromodulators for wrinkle reduction and facial rejuvenation are Botox and Dysport. Although they have similarities, critical differences impact their effectiveness, longevity and appropriateness for different types of people. Its own article details everything you need to know so you can whichever is best for you.
What is Dysport?
Dysport is an FDA approved injectable agent injected in that relaxes the muscles, temporarily smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its active ingredient is botulinum toxin type A that works by relaxing the facial muscles to stop them from contracting and causing wrinkles.
How does Dysport work?
Dysport interferes with nerve signals that trigger muscle contractions, producing smoother skin. Its diffusion is superior to that of Botox, making it an ideal choice for treating bigger areas affected by multiple wrinkles, including forehead and crow’s feet lines.
What skin concerns can Dysport treat?
- What skin issues does Dysport treat?
- Forehead wrinkles
- Frown lines (glabellar lines)
- Crow’s feet
- Bunny lines (on the nose)
- Lip lines
- Neck bands
- Heavy sweating (hyperhidrosis)
What is Botox?
Botox is a well-known cosmetic treatment that also contains botulinum toxin type A. It temporarily relaxes muscles to soften facial wrinkles and is widely used for aesthetic and medical purposes.
How does Botox work?
Botox, a popular cosmetic treatment that also uses botulinum toxin type A, offers temporary muscle relaxation to smooth facial wrinkles and is commonly used for both aesthetic and medical applications.
What skin concerns can Botox treat?
- What skin issues is Botox able to address?
- Forehead lines
- Frown lines (glabellar lines)
- Crow’s feet
- Gummy smile
- Chin dimpling
- Neck bands
- However, stink is not a common sign of sweating excessively (hyperhidrosis).
- Migraines and muscle spasms
What is the difference between Dysport and Botox?
Below is a side-by-side comparison of Dysport and Botox:
Dysport:
- Active Ingredient: Botulinum toxin type A
- Diffusion: Spreads more easily
- Onset of Results: 2-3 days
- Longevity: 3-4 months
- Ideal Treatment Areas: Larger areas like forehead wrinkles
- Cost: Generally slightly lower per unit
- Medical Uses: Hyperhidrosis, muscle spasms
Botox:
- Active Ingredient: Botulinum toxin type A
- Diffusion: More localized effect
- Onset of Results: 3-5 days
- Longevity: 3-6 months
- Ideal Treatment Areas: Smaller, precise areas like frown lines
- Cost: Higher per unit but fewer units may be needed
- Medical Uses: Migraines, muscle spasms, excessive sweating
Procedure and technique
Dysport and Botox are given in small injections in specific areas. From start to finish, the process takes roughly 10-20 minutes, with little or no downtime required. Dysport disperses more quickly, thus more effective for larger swaths of mass, while Botox injectables are best for precision-based targeting. A provider will evaluate the patient’s facial structure, talk through desired results, and decide on the right dosage, to achieve natural results.
Pain and discomfort
Patients experience very little pain during injection site after the procedure, usually with mild pinching sensation. You can use topical numbing creams to minimize discomfort. It is common to have some redness, swelling, or bruising settle in after injection, but these effects typically resolve within a few hours
Results and effectiveness
- Dysport: Takes effect in 2-3 days, lasts generally for 3-4 months. The diffusion function permits a gentler gradual diffusion without irregularities, but suitable for more extensive wrinkles.
- Botox: Takes 3-5 days to show a result and lasts for 3-6 months. The precision of Botox lends itself to treating smaller muscle groups with a surface-level effect.
Recovery and aftercare
Both treatments require minimal downtime. Patients are advised to:
- Do not lie flat for 4 hours afterwards.
- Do not massage or rub the area that is treated.
- No alcohol, blood thinners, or heavy activities for 24 hours.
- Keep standing and avoid too much sun, and you could avoid the bruising.
Cost
The cost is variable, depending on the number of units needed and provider fees. Although Dysport is a little less expensive per unit, you may need more units than if you used Botox so the cost balances out. On average:
- Dysport: $4 — $6 (more units needed per treatment area)
- Botox: $10-$15 per unit (uses less units to achieve the same effect)
Suitability for different skin types
Dysport is effective for people with vertical lines, larger treatment areas or thinner skin, while Botox is more effective for targeted wrinkles and thicker skin. People with more pronounced lines or stronger facial muscles may be better served by Botox’s precision.
Benefits and drawbacks
Below is a summary of the pros and cons of both treatments:
Dysport:
- Pros: Gets there quicker, easy to spread, cheap for big areas
- Cons: More bothersome, less accurate on small-sized areas.
Botox:
- Pros: Durability of result, narrow site targeting, fewer units are required
- Cons: Takes longer to work, higher cost per unit
Book a consultation now
If you’re interested in facial rejuvenation with Dysport or Botox, seeing a professional is the best way to figure out which is right for you. We work with a team of our highly experienced providers to better understand your needs and design a tailor-made treatment plan for optimal results. Schedule a consultation now and kickstart your journey to smoother, younger-looking skin!
FAQs
- Which is more effective: Dysport or Botox?
Effectiveness varies depending on the area being treated. Dysport spreads more, making it a better choice for larger areas, while Botox is more precise — and can last longer in some people.
- How long do Botox results last?
The results of Botox typically last about 3 to 6 months, depending on factors such as metabolism, lifestyle, and dosage.
- Who is not a good candidate for Botox?
Anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding, has a neuromuscular disorder or has an allergy to botulinum toxin injections should stay away from Botox treatments. People with active skin infections or certain medical conditions should discuss treatment with their doctor.
- How long do Dysport results last?
Dysport results last around 3 to 4 months, although individual differences are one of the areas of variability here.
- How often should you get Botox?
Patients typically see Botox treatments every 3 to 6 months to maintain results. How often depends on individual response and muscle strength.
- How often should you get Dysport?
Repeat Dysport treatments are typically performed every 3 to 4 months to maintain the desired effect. Because it diffuses more, some people may find that they need touch-ups sooner than they do with the Botox injections.
Unsure which treatment is best for you? Schedule a consultation with our expert providers today!
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