Which is Better Botox or Dysport?
Chances are, you’ve likely heard of Botox and Dysport - the two most popular neurotoxin injectables on the market designed to combat wrinkles and fine lines, leaving clients with smoother, more youthful-looking skin. While both Botox and Dysport are great and effective options for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles with minimal to no downtime, there are some key differences that you should keep in mind at your next Defy appointment. So, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about our favorite wrinkle relaxers!
Let’s Get Back to Basics:
Botox and Dysport both belong to a class of neurotoxin injectables known as botulinum toxin type A. Both formulas are FDA-approved to temporarily reduce the appearance of wrinkles by targeting the underlying muscles responsible for facial expressions. While they share the same primary ingredient -botulinum toxin- there are some key differences in their formulations and results. We believe in educating our clients, but don’t worry about memorizing all of these facts - that’s what our expert nurse practitioners are here to do! So, let’s get into it.
How They’re Different:
Their Molecular Size: One of the key distinctions between Botox and Dysport lies in their molecular size. Dysport molecules are approximately 1.5 to 2 times smaller than Botox molecules. This size difference may seem small, but it can influence factors such as diffusion and onset of action which means that some patients experience faster results with Dysport, noticing a reduction in wrinkles in only 2-3 days while Botox generally takes about 3-5 days to take effect.
Their Formulations: Think of Botox and Dysport as different recipes for cooking. They're both made from the same main ingredient, but they have other important stuff mixed in that makes them a bit different. Botox has been a household name in the cosmetic industry since the late 1980s. It is produced and manufactured by Allergan and is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Dysport, on the other hand, is manufactured by Ipsen and contains a slightly different formulation of botulinum toxin type A.
Not Every Treatment Works the Same for Everyone: Even though both Botox and Dysport can make wrinkles visibly less noticeable and prevent new fine lines from forming, some patients might see better results with one over the other. It truly just depends on your body! Factors like how strong your muscles ar how elastic your skin is can affect how well the treatment works. Because of this, we always start our Botox and Dysport appointments with a personalized consultation to determine which formula is best for you. Also, some patients find that prolonged use of one neuromodulator (Botox or Dysport) can cause them to develop a tolerance to that product. So, switching between Botox and Dysport may also help you achieve great results over a longer period!
Differences in Dosage and Units: Another differentiating factor between Botox and Dysport lies in their dosage and unit measurement. Both Botox and Dysport come in a powder form and require reconstitution. This means we add a certain amount of water to each product to then be able to inject it into the muscle. The amount of water added to Botox and Dysport is different, based on the FDA-approved recommendations. You also may find they are different amongst injectors. However, we usually don’t find one neuromodulator to be stronger than the other meaning they are dosed very similarly.
How They’re the Same:
Duration: When it comes to how long Botox and Dysport last, this is a key similarity. They both typically last around 3-4 months. Some patients may find that it lasts a little longer or shorter depending on their body and lifestyle.
How They’re Injected: When it comes to application, both Botox and Dysport are administered via injections with an extremely thin needle into the targeted facial muscles. The treatment typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for patients! (Check out this peek inside a Botox appointment with Nurse Practitioner Lauren to see what to expect!)
They Treat the Same Areas: Both Dysport and Botox can be used to treat various areas of the face, including the forehead lines (the lines that go side to side), glabellar lines (the 11s, or ones that make you look angry), crows feet (the tiny lines at the sides of your eyes), bunny lines (the wrinkles on your nose when you smile or scrunch up your face), lip lines (the lines around your lips, as you see in smokers), chin pebbling (the lines on your chin), jawline contouring (making your jaw look less square), neck bands, (the horizontal creases that develop across the neck).
The Cost: We charge $14.50 for each Botox or Dysport unit. If you join our Defy Annual Membership, you get $1 off every unit! Watch this quick video from our Founder Katharine to learn more!
The Downtime: One of the best aspects of Botox and Dysport treatments is their very minimal to no downtime! Patients can resume their daily activities immediately after their appointment and can resume vigorous exercise 24 hours after treatment. Keep in mind, that mild bruising may occur after your appointment but will fade within a few days! We recommend using an Arnica Gel (this one is great from Amazon!) to treat discoloration from bruises if you do get any!
In the world of beauty treatments, Botox and Dysport are great choices for patients who want to turn back the clock and or prevent future fine lines and wrinkles. Choosing between the two truly depends on a client’s lifestyle, body composition, and individual goals. New to Botox or Dysport? Make a consultation with us at our downtown Bethesda medspa office, and we’ll work with you to determine the best and most effective personalized treatment plan for you!
Whether you're interested in Botox, Dysport, facial filler, collagen-boosting skin lasers, or want to learn more about our Defy Monthly Facial Membership (a perfect choice for those who want to transform their skin without the pricetag over the course of a year!), we’d love to see you in our Bethesda medical spa soon!