Botox vs. Dysport

Both Botox and Dysport are types of neurotoxins that were designed to block muscle contractions. While it is true that both injectables can be used to treat medical conditions such as headaches or spasms, they’re more widely used (and approved by the FDA) to smooth and eliminate the appearance of wrinkles.

But while both Botox and Dysport share a number of key features, the two do have their differences, and it’s important to be familiar with both.

The Similarities

Due to the muscle contractions that facilitate everyday facial movements or expressions, fine lines and wrinkles will inevitably develop. For example, smiling and squinting create ‘crow’s feet’ around the eyes, while raising your eyebrows results in forehead lines.

Both Botox and Dysport work their magic on fine lines and wrinkles by relaxing muscle tissue to the point where they prevent the muscle from contracting.

When either product is injected into a targeted area, the nerve impulses that control your muscle contraction are temporarily blocked. The resulting decrease in movement and relaxation of muscles reduces the appearance of wrinkles in the area.

Both Botox and Dysport offer results that are effective, but temporary. After a period of time, your nerve impulses begin to reach the targeted muscle area again, resulting in both muscle contractions and the reappearance of wrinkles and lines.

However, an experienced injector can maintain the positive results of Botox and Dysport with a consistent treatment schedule – At Veritas Backstage, we recommend booking appointments every 3-6 months.

The Differences

The major differences between Botox and Dysport appear in a few key areas:

Molecular weight

Both Botox and Dysport have the same molecule size at their core, but the weight of the protective proteins that surround the core are different. Botox maintains a consistent 750 kDa, while the molecular weight of Dysport varies from 350 kDA to 750 kDa. 

In layman’s terms what this means is that there is a lower likelihood of diffusion for Botox, and a higher likelihood of diffusion for Dysport.

Units per treatment

Because the Dysport formula is more diluted than the Botox formula, the number of units required to achieve similar results is generally higher for Dysport.

Best treatment area

The lower diffusion rate of Botox makes it best for smaller treatment zones and areas with thicker muscles, such as around the mouth and between the eyebrows. The higher diffusion rate of Dysport means it can treat larger areas with fewer injections, such as the forehead, and areas with thinner muscles (example: crow’s feet).

Onset

Compared to Botox, Dysport is faster to develop full potency, with an onset time of about 24 to 48 hours for results to be realized. Botox can take up to 72 hours (and sometimes a full week) for results to establish.

The Cost

The cost of Botox and Dysport depends greatly on the area of skin you’re treating.

Botox injections average at a slightly higher rate than Dysport nationally at $600 each session. 

Nationally, Dysport has an average cost of $525 dollars per session.

With both injectables, your Backstage technician will determine the price based on the number of units needed.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Both Dysport and Botox injections are intended for adults who have moderate to severe facial lines and are in overall good health. Your Backstage technician will check out your medical history and ask you questions before committing to the procedure.

As a rule of thumb, you may not be a candidate for either procedure if you:

• Are pregnant
• Have a history of botulinum toxin sensitivity
• Have a milk allergy

Also, as a precaution, you’ll likely need to discontinue blood thinners, muscle relaxers, and other medications that might interact with the injections. It’s important to tell your Backstage technician about all medications and supplements you take, even if they are available over the counter.

The Verdict

At Veritas Backstage, some of our patients swear by Botox, some prefer Dysport, and some love the results they get when we use both concurrently. 

We take pride in our ability to guide our patients on choosing the right products that will help them achieve their aesthetic goals. 

Our injectable specialists have over 30 years of combined experience in advanced skin care and injectables and a track record of 5-star customer service.

If you’d like to determine if Botox or Dysport is right for you, contact us today at 800-954-7590 or request a consultation by booking online.