Botox has long been a popular choice for people who would like to minimize the appearance of wrinkles on their face. It is not the only option, however. Among the most popular alternatives is Dysport, which also works to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Both are related treatments, and the right choice depends on your skin, your goals, and the areas you want to treat. This guide breaks down how they differ so you can decide with confidence. Both are offered at Elume Med Spa in Fairfax, VA by our licensed team, led by Shaheen Ghafari.
Dysport and Botox at a Glance
| Dysport | Botox | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | A botulinum neurotoxin injection that temporarily prevents the muscle movements that cause frown lines | A botulinum neurotoxin that blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles, allowing wrinkles to relax and soften |
| Commonly treated areas | Moderate to severe frown lines (glabellar lines) between the eyebrows | Forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines; also used to help reduce excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) |
| Onset of results | Improvements often appear within 2 to 3 days; full results are usually visible within 7 to 10 days | Results start appearing within 3 to 5 days and fully settle in about 1 to 2 weeks |
| How long results last | Typically 3 to 5 months; varies by person | Typically 3 to 4 months; varies by person |
| Spread | Tends to spread more evenly, which can be helpful for larger areas like the forehead | May be more precise for smaller areas |
| Appointment time | About 10 to 20 minutes | About 10 to 30 minutes |
| Dosing | Amount tailored to your needs and goals at your consultation | Varies by area; forehead lines typically 10-20 units and frown lines 15-25 units, customized at your consultation |
What is the difference between Dysport and Botox?
Dysport and Botox are both botulinum neurotoxins that can safely be injected into the face by a trained professional. Each works by temporarily relaxing the targeted muscles whose repeated contractions cause dynamic wrinkles, and only the target areas are affected, so surrounding muscles continue to move naturally. The main differences come down to where each is most often used, how quickly results appear, and how each product spreads once injected.
How does Dysport work?
Dysport is a prescription injection used to treat moderate to severe frown lines, or glabellar lines, found in between the eyebrows. It is considered a botulinum neurotoxin, acetylcholine release inhibitor, and a neuromuscular blocking agent. This means that it is able to temporarily prevent the muscle movements that cause frown lines. During your Dysport treatment, a professional may apply a mild anesthetic to the target area, and different amounts of Dysport will be injected depending on your needs. Dysport also tends to spread more evenly, which can be helpful when treating larger areas like the forehead.
How does Botox work?
Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles, essentially relaxing the injected muscle and preventing it from contracting. This causes wrinkles to relax and soften. The areas to be injected may be numbed with a mild anesthetic, and the amount of Botox used varies based on the areas being treated and the depth of your wrinkles. A professional practitioner will help you determine the right amount to meet your goals.
Which areas can each treatment address?
Botox is commonly used on a wider range of problem areas than Dysport. It is often chosen for forehead lines, crow’s feet around the eyes, and frown lines between the eyebrows. In addition to its aesthetic uses, Botox has been helpful at treating hyperhidrosis to reduce excessive sweating. Dysport is used to treat moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows, and its more even spread can make it a good fit for broader areas like the forehead. If you are looking to address multiple types of wrinkles in a single visit, Botox can often cover them in one appointment.
How quickly does each one work, and how long do results last?
Dysport works quickly. Improvements often appear within 2 to 3 days of treatment, with full results usually visible within 7 to 10 days, and results typically last 3 to 5 months. Botox results start appearing within 3 to 5 days and fully settle in about 1 to 2 weeks, typically lasting 3 to 4 months. Timelines vary from person to person, and your provider can recommend a touch-up schedule that fits your goals.
What is the appointment like?
Both treatments are quick, minimally invasive procedures. A Dysport appointment takes between 10 and 20 minutes, and a Botox appointment lasts between 10 and 30 minutes. A mild anesthetic may be applied for comfort. Because downtime is minimal, you can get back to your schedule right away. While rest is recommended, your daily plans should not be interrupted.
How do I choose between Dysport and Botox?
The best choice depends on your treatment areas, your timeline, and your provider’s recommendation. Schedule a free consultation with Elume Medspa and our licensed medical estheticians and nurse practitioners will help you choose the right treatment for your needs.
Ready to get started? Request an appointment online and we will follow up to confirm your visit.
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Want to learn more? Read on about Benefits Of Dysport Injections.
