BOTOX is a household word that’s synonymous with wrinkle-free skin. It remains the most popular cosmetic treatment year after year, even as BOTOX alternatives consistently emerge promising a more effective anti-wrinkle treatment. Dysport was the first option to hit the market, and our Vero Beach, FL, med spa offers both types of neuromodulators to patients.
In this blog post, we’ll compare Dysport vs. Botox when it comes to results, how long they last, cost, and where they are most effective.
What Is Dysport?
Like BOTOX, Dysport is a type of botulinum toxin injection mainly used to treat and prevent wrinkles. Even though the 2 products both use the same primary active ingredient, the formulations are slightly different based on the kind of protein included. This difference enables Dysport to spread further from the injection site than BOTOX.
How Do BOTOX and Dysport Work?
When you squint, frown, smile, appear surprised, or make other facial expressions, tiny muscles move and create fine lines and wrinkles. When you’re young, these lines disappear when your face relaxes. Over time, however, the repeated muscle movements create permanent wrinkles, such as crow’s feet and worry lines. BOTOX and Dysport target these “dynamic” wrinkles by blocking signals sent from the nerves to the muscles.
BOTOX and Dysport Treatment Areas
The FDA initially approved Dysport to treat glabellar lines—the vertical lines between the eyes often called “the 11s” or frown lines. BOTOX is approved to treat wrinkles and lines in numerous areas of the face, including:
- Forehead wrinkles
- Crow’s feet
- Bunny lines on the nose
Because Dysport tends to spread further from the injection site, it can be a preferred option for more extensive treatment areas, such as the forehead.
In addition to minimizing moderate to severe wrinkles, BOTOX can be used to treat other cosmetic and medical concerns. BOTOX injections into the masseter muscle—the muscle used to chew food—can create a slimmer jawline. BOTOX also treats gummy smiles without surgery. The FDA approves it for treating chronic migraines and excessive underarm sweating.
How Long Do Treatments Take?
Both procedures take just a few minutes. It takes longer to apply and let the anesthetic dry than the injections themselves. Unless you have immediate side effects, you can go home right after the procedure. Potential side effects following BOTOX and Dysport injections include swelling, bruising, redness, headaches, numbness, and slight discomfort.
These minor side effects usually resolve within a few days of the procedure. Treatment with botulinum toxin is widely viewed as safe and effective, and severe side effects are rare.
How Much Do BOTOX and Dysport Cost?
Dysport is a more diluted product than BOTOX. That means more units are needed to achieve the same results as a BOTOX treatment. The general rule is that 1 unit of BOTOX equals 3 units of Dysport. Even though Dysport is less expensive per unit than BOTOX, the total treatment cost tends to be the same because of the larger number of units required for Dysport.
When Do You See Results?
One of the first questions people ask when considering BOTOX or Dysport is, “How soon will I see results?” BOTOX usually takes about 3 to 7 days to see the initial results. It can take up to 2 weeks to see the full effects. Dysport often shows results slightly sooner than BOTOX injections. Many patients report noticing changes within 2 to 5 days, with the full effects visible within a week. Each person is different, though, and it’s important to be patient and allow time for the treatment to take effect.
How Long Does BOTOX Last Compared to Dysport?
Another significant factor to consider when choosing between BOTOX and Dysport is how long the results will last.
On average, the duration of BOTOX results is about 3 to 4 months. After this period, muscle activity gradually returns, and wrinkles may reappear. Some individuals may experience results that last up to six months, while others might find them wearing off in as little as 2 to 3 months.
Dysport results are also temporary but tend to last roughly the same duration as BOTOX, typically around 3 to 4 months. Just like with BOTOX, the longevity of Dysport results can vary among individuals. As we wrote about in this previous blog post, how long the results last also depends on the treatment area.
Scheduling maintenance treatments every 3 months can help the results last indefinitely.
BOTOX vs. Dysport: Which Is Right for You?
In our experience with injectables, we’ve seen both BOTOX and Dysport produce consistently excellent results. Both are safe and have extensive track records of highly satisfied patients. It really comes down to your preference. Whether you choose BOTOX or Dysport, choosing an injector with extensive experience is crucial. At White Orchid Spa, our expert injectors assess your unique needs and provide personalized recommendations to help you achieve the youthful and rejuvenated appearance you desire.
You can request a consultation to discuss your concerns and goals using the online form or call our med spa at (772) 231-1133 to schedule an appointment.
Leave a Reply