3 Differences Between Dysport And Botox & Which One To Choose

Botox and Dysport are FDA-approved injectable neurotoxins that help numb and relax specific facial muscles (1), (2). While the FDA approves both for treating spasticity (abnormal muscle stiffness) and other medical conditions, they are popularly used to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Both have similar effects but are different in various aspects. If you are considering any of the two, keep reading to understand the differences and which one is right for you.

Dysport Vs. Botox: What Is The Difference?

Both Dysport and Botox are neurotoxins and available as intramuscular injections to prevent muscle contraction and improve the appearance of wrinkles, crow’s feet, frown lines, laugh lines, and fine lines.

Both work in the same way. However, they have different concentrations of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A) (3). This makes them different in terms of results, cost, convenience, efficacy, and longevity.

In other words, both Dysport and Botox contain the same neurotoxin, but the protein amounts may differ. This makes them effective for different target areas. The following sections of the article will help you understand the other differences between Botox and Dysport and decide which one to go for.

Did You Know?

Individuals with egg allergies may face a heightened risk of allergic reactions when undergoing Botox treatments.

Dysport Vs. Botox: Which One To Choose?

The FDA approves using Dysport for moderate to severe glabellar lines – the vertical frown lines that appear between the eyebrows and extend to the forehead (2). You may see these lines when you frown or squint. The glabellar lines become prominent with age, leading many to seek different solutions on how to get rid of frown lines.

On the other hand, Botox can be used to improve (4):

• Glabellar lines
• Frown lines
• Smoker’s lines (wrinkles around the lips)

Did You Know?

Smoking cigarettes is one of the leading causes contributing to the development of smoker’s lines. As of 2022, 11.2% of the U.S. adult population engage in smoking, with 11.7% being men and 10.8% being women.

• Marionette lines (lines from the corner of the mouth to the outer corner of the chin)
• Platysmal band (ridges of muscles on the neck running vertically up)

You may go for Dysport if you have deep forehead wrinkles or frown lines and Botox if you want to improve wrinkles on other facial areas.

How Botox And Dysport Work

Both Botox and Dysport contain botulinum toxin derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and have a similar mechanism. The toxin blocks nerve signals to the target muscles, restricting their movement (4). The relaxed muscles soften the appearance of wrinkles.

Remember, Dysport and Botox cannot eliminate wrinkles. You have to do follow-up sessions once the effect of the toxins starts reducing.

Dosage And Duration Of The Procedures

Both the procedures take just a few minutes. For Dysport (for glabellar lines), the FDA recommends a total dose of 50 units, divided into five equal aliquots of 10 units each (2 ).

The dosage of Botox depends on the muscles and conditions it is used to treat (5). The doctor may use 15-30 units for forehead lines and 40 units of Botox for the glabellar lines.

The Results And Longevity

For both the procedures, you may see results within a few days of the treatment. The results of Dysport may be visible in a couple of days and may last for 3-4 months.

Botox results may last for 3-4 months. However, for some people, the results may also last for anywhere between 4 to 6 months. You have to go for follow-up sessions to maintain the look for your wrinkles.

A 26-question survey with 516 participants was conducted to inquire about the use of botulinum toxin among different age groups. It revealed that 92% were familiar with it, while 21% had received botulinum toxin injections. Of those who received them, 45% utilized them for the treatment of wrinkles and 37% for the prevention of wrinkles.

Out of those, 18% had received it for cosmetic reasons, such as wrinkle treatment.

Jenn Newlin, a blogger, tried botox and shared her experience in a blog post. She explains the difference between botox and Dysport, stating, “Dysport isn’t quite as potent and therefore cheaper and more subtle. This has also been said to be false which takes me back to the original point — try both. I’m confident everyone’s skin and muscles react slightly different and obviously we have different preferences so you may find you prefer one over the other. In my experience, Botox works better. It seems to have a little more bang to it and for me it feels like it last longer (i).”

The Cost Of Botox And Dysport Procedures

A single session of Botox treatment may cost anywhere between $350-$1000. However, the price may vary depending on the area(s) of treatment and the severity of the condition.

Dysport is slightly less expensive. A single session may cost between $200 and $500.

Side Effects Of Botox And Dysport

Botox and Dysport are considered safe and effective. However, they may also cause unwanted side effects, which include:

• Pain and swelling in the injection site
• Headache
• Fever
• Dry and itchy eyes along with focusing issues
• Muscle weakness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Drooping eyelids
• Uneven eyebrows
• Teary eyes

If you have taken Botox injections around the mouth, it may also cause an asymmetric or crooked smile. These are unwanted side effects of the numbing toxin and may wear off after a few days or weeks. However, in rare cases, the toxin may cause serious side effects like:

• Breathing issues
• Difficulty in swallowing and speaking
• Blurred or double vision
• Overall weakness

If you experience any of these side effects, consult a doctor immediately.

Who Is A Good Candidate For Botox And Dysport?

If you do not have any major health issues or a history of certain medical conditions and have moderate to severe wrinkles and lines, you can go for the procedure. Before the procedure, the doctor will evaluate your medical history and ask you a few questions to determine if you can go for any procedures.
Avoid Botox and Dysport if you:

• Are pregnant, planning to conceive, or lactating
• Are allergic or sensitive to botulinum toxin
• Are allergic to milk
• Are under 18 years or over 65 years
• Have thin skin or an existing skin condition

Botulinum toxin can interact with several drugs like blood thinners, muscle relaxers, other medications, and supplements. You may have to discontinue the medications before taking the injections. It is best to inform your doctor about all the medications and supplements you take to prevent unwanted side effects.

Here is a brief overview of the two procedures:

Dysport Vs. Botox: Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dysport more natural looking than Botox?

Dysport spreads more quickly throughout the muscle which gives the individual a more natural look than botox.

Should I switch from Dysport to Botox?

Yes, you can switch from Dysport to Botox. Consult your doctor to understand the benefits and risks of switching treatments before opting for them.

Can Dysport lift your eyebrows?

Yes, Dysport can lift your eyebrows. Your doctor may inject Dysport below the tail of the eyebrows to give a smoother and youthful appearance.

Does Dysport make your forehead shiny?

Yes, incorrect and too much administration of Dysport may smoothen the skin on your forehead and give it a shiny appearance.

The following video presents the findings of the results of Botox and Dysport to help viewers determine which option might be best for them. If you are considering either of the two, then check out this video now!

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Dr. Priya GillMBBCH, MRCP

 

Dr. Priya Gill is a consultant dermatologist in Klang, Malaysia, with over 16 years of experience. She specializes in the management of all medical and surgical dermatology issues and has a special interest in laser therapy and phototherapy.

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Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

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