When it comes to injectable treatments for wrinkles, two names often come up: Dysport and Botox. At The Hudson we offer both brands and are often asked how the two compare.
What Are Dysport and Botox?
Both Dysport and Botox are brand names for injectable neurotoxins with the same active ingredient: botulinum toxin type A. They work by temporarily blocking nerve signals to specific muscles, causing them to relax. This results in a smoother, more youthful appearance by reducing the appearance of wrinkles caused by facial expressions (ex: crow’s feet, frown lines “11s”, and forehead wrinkles).
While the active ingredients are the same, Dysport and Botox are different products and have some key differences in terms of results, and treatment experience.
How Do Dysport and Botox Differ?
1. Dosing and Pricing
- Botox: Botox is formulated to be more concentrated. Our price is currently $15/unit
- Dysport: Dysport is more diluted than Botox and requires three times more units to get the same effect as Botox. Since more is needed our price for Dysport is less per unit currently at $5/unit
- The price ends up being equivalent when you look at an example of comparable treatments. 20 units Botox = $300 vs. 60 units Dysport = $300
2. Coverage and Treatment Areas
- Dysport: Dysport is smaller and more diluted, so it spreads more once injected into the muscle. This can be an advantage when treating muscles with larger surface area, like the forehead, as it provides more uniform results.
- Botox: Botox has a larger molecule size, meaning it stays more localized in the part of the muscle injected. This can give more precise control over where the product is placed, making it ideal for smaller areas like around the eye and mouth.
3. Onset & Duration
- Dysport: Dysport is smaller so the muscle responds to treatment sooner typically within 2 to 3 days.
- Botox: Botox takes longer to be absorbed by the muscle so results are seen within 5 to 7 days.
- Botox and Dysport have the same duration lasting 3-5 months
Which Is Better?
The choice between Dysport and Botox ultimately depends on the amount of wrinkle correction you want and the areas you wish to treat. Just like ice cream we all have our own favorite flavor for different reasons! We asked our Physician Assistant Rebecca Whealen for some advice on how to choose between the two:
“If it is your first time getting treatment with a neurotoxin, I recommend starting with Botox. It is more precise and reliable. If you have experience with Botox and desire less movement in your muscles or have struggled with getting even coverage, then you might be a good candidate for Dysport. I even have some clients who like to switch between the two based on what their goals are for treatment that day”
Since both products are neurotoxins the risks, benefits and after-care are the same. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference and your body’s response to treatment. Just like ice cream you might decide one day to try another flavor – and it might be your new favorite, or you might go back to what you know! Either way, both are safe and effective options to say goodbye to wrinkles. We can’t wait to hear about which one you prefer. Book a consultation with us today to talk more about which neurotoxin is right for you with our providers.
