Dysport vs Botox: What is the Difference and Which One is Best For You?

One of the most commonly asked question asked about Botox and Dysport is: What is the difference? Both are popular injectable treatments that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, while there are many similarities, there are also some distinct differences.

What Are The Similarities Between Botox and Dysport Injections?

Here's a quick look at some similarities between Botox and Dysport:

• Botox and Dysport are FDA-approved neurotoxins for temporarily improving the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles.
• Both injectables are categorized as neuromodulators, focusing on relaxing muscle tissue and nerve signals to reduce lines caused by facial movement and facial expressions, such as forehead wrinkles and laugh lines.
• Botox and Dysport both contain the same active ingredient, botulinum neurotoxin type-A (BoNT-A), derived from the bacterium clostridium botulinum toxin, which blocks muscle contractions.

What Are the Key Differences Between Botox and Dysport?

1. Brand Formulation and Manufacturing Process

Both Dysport and Botox are the two most popular cosmetic injectables to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While both products are botulinum toxin type-A (BoNT-A) products, the manufacturing process differs which impacts the formulation and dosing guidelines based on the potency of units.

Dysport was developed by Ipsen, Paris, France under the generic name AbobotulinumtoxinA. While Botox was developed by Allergan, Irvine, CA, under the generic name OnabotulinumtoxinA.

2. Concentration Levels in Botox or Dysport Treatments

The most significant difference is the level of concentration found in each product which is based on the differing preparation and manufacturing processes between the two treatments.

Dysport is more diluted than Botox, which means more units of Dysport are needed per treatment area. Due to the higher dilution formula, Dysport is cheaper than Botox on a per unit basis, but more units are needed for treatment, so both injectables are comparable in price.

3. Cosmetic and Therapeutic Uses

For aesthetic and cosmetic treatments, both Dysport and Botox utilize the same botulinum toxin, or neurotoxin, to relax and limit muscle movements to smooth out the skin and treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles. However, both products are used for differing therapeutic purposes.

According to the 2008 guidelines published by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) on botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), both products have therapeutic uses for varying conditions.

Dysport can be used to treat cervical dystonia and upper extremity spasticity (spasms accompanied by stiff arm muscles and trouble with arm coordination or function).

Botox can treat blepharospasm, chronic migraines, as well as cervical dystonia, upper extremity spasticity, and lower extremity spasticity (increased muscle tone and hyperactive reflexes in the legs and feet).

4. Dosage Differences

For cosmetic procedures and treatment areas, Dysport can spread faster and evenly over a larger surface area due to its molecular diffusion. An experienced doctor will utilize Dysport for the forehead and frown lines or "11" lines.

In contrast, Botox injections have a higher, more potent concentration and are slow-moving, which work well in small areas such as crow's feet, lip lines, and other fine wrinkles, requiring fewer units.

• Cosmetic treatment of glabellar lines: Dysport requires 50 units. Meanwhile, Botox requires 20 units to minimize muscle contractions.

For therapeutic purposes, the molecular behavior and diffusion properties are important to consider when treating medical conditions, solidifying why dosages are not interchangeable between the two products.

For example, dosages shown to be safe and effective in FDA-approved clinical trials included:

• Upper limb spasticity treatment: Dysport requires 1000 units, and can be used 2 times a year which means each injection can use 500 units. Meanwhile, Botox requires 400 units and can be used 4 times a year, which means it requires 100 units for each treatment using Botox.

5. How Long Do Results Last Between Botox and Dysport Injections?

One study found that Botox injections, especially in the glabellar area or for severe frown lines, have a duration of 3 to 5 months for female patients and 4 to 6 months for male patients. Some patients had a more extended response duration; however, results depend upon the location of the injectable, the individual's metabolism rate, and other factors.

Similarly, Dysport typically lasts between 3 to 4 months. With both products, most patients needed treatment within 6 months to maintain the desired results.

6. Side Effects of Cosmetic Botox and Dysport

As with any medical or cosmetic procedure, there is always a degree of risk and side effects. Both Botox and Dysport injections contain the Botulinum toxin type, so the side effects from both injectables are similar.

The most common side effects include pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site. Some patients experience headaches and mild flu-like symptoms, however, these side effects are temporary and typically resolve within the first 24 to 48 hours after treatment.

In very rare circumstances, patients have experienced muscle weakness, and difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Always speak with your healthcare provider to determine what is right for you and seek emergency medical treatment if you are experiencing severe side effects.

Can you combine Botox or Dysport injections with other cosmetic treatments?

This answer will vary individually and will depend upon the overall desired results. It is not uncommon for patients to receive injectable fillers to add volume while receiving Dysport or Botox treatment for lines and wrinkle treatment, also known as a "liquid facelift."

If you are interested in treatments that include lasers or chemical peels, your healthcare practitioner can walk you through the appropriate treatment sequence so you can maximize the desired results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Dysport or Botox?

There is no clear answer to this question and it depends upon several factors, including:

• Desired results and goals.
• What specific facial muscles need treatment.
• The number of treatment areas.
• The severity of forehead lines, frown lines, and wrinkles.

An experienced practitioner can guide you in making the best decision for your individual needs.

Is Dysport Cheaper Than Botox?

This is a common question when people consider getting Dysport and Botox and will depend on several factors, including:

• The cost of each injectable.
• The targeted facial muscles and results.
• The number of units and treatment areas desired
• Overall goals and outcomes.

Speak with your practitioner to learn what product is best for you!

Where Can Dysport Be Used On The Face?

Dysport can be used in many different areas of the face to achieve a variety of aesthetic goals. Some of the most common areas treated with Dysport include the forehead, glabellar lines (the area between the eyebrows), and crow's feet (lines around the eyes).

Can You Make Dysport or Botox Wear Off Faster?

Unfortunately, the effects of Dysport or Botox cannot be removed or dissolved because both products contain ingredients that work to block receptors between a nerve and a targeted muscle. Once this particular block is in place, the body will create new receptors as the product wears off.

The good news is that the effects of these cosmetic injectables are temporary so you can anticipate unwanted results gradually fading with time.

Final Thoughts

Our experts at iThriveBeauty are here to break down the differences between Dysport and Botox to help you decide which is the best option for you!

If you’re considering cosmetic injection treatments and want to make sure you’re making the best decision for your needs, contact our staff for a free consultation.

We can help you determine which product is right for you and provide guidance for a safe and effective treatment!