Dysport vs. Botox: Most important differences to know in 2024
The popularity of non-invasive anti-aging treatments continues to rise. In 2024, Dysport vs. Botox remains a key consideration for those seeking to reduce wrinkles. Understanding the differences between these injectables is crucial for making the right decision.
For starters, Dysport and Botox both use botulinum toxin, a neurotoxic protein, to smooth fine lines and wrinkles. But they have distinct characteristics that can affect treatment outcomes. The choice between the two depends on factors such as the treatment area and how your body responds to each toxin.
While both are effective, your provider’s expertise plays a big part in achieving optimal results. Let’s explore their unique features to help you choose the best option.
Common use cases for Dysport & Botox
Dysport and Botox are versatile treatments used for various facial areas and medical conditions.
Here’s how they compare in different applications:
Forehead
Dysport and Botox effectively treat forehead lines. Dysport's wider spread can be advantageous for this larger area. A typical Dysport treatment uses 30 to 80 units, while Botox requires 10 to 30 units. Both last about four months, with Dysport often showing faster results.
Brow lift
For brow lifts, practitioners typically use four to six units of Botox per side. Dysport injections can achieve similar effects but require careful placement due to their spreading tendency. Both provide noticeable lifts lasting around four months.
Crow’s feet
Both injectables work well for crow's feet, but their application differs. Botox is often preferred for its precision, using about 12 units per side. With Dysport’s dosing, you’d need at least triple the number of units to achieve a similar outcome.
TMJ
For temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, Dysport and Botox can help reduce pain and muscle tension. Botox may be more commonly used, with typical treatments using 15 to 20 units per side. People with strong muscles or men typically need more units. You can expect to triple the number of units if you choose Dysport.
Glabellar lines
Both injectable treatments are effective for glabellar lines (the "11" lines between eyebrows). Dysport, specifically approved for this area, often shows results in two to three days. One Botox unit is equivalent to three Dysport units. So, 20 units of Botox would be around 60 Dysport units if you choose to get Dysport. Though they’re measured differently, they create results lasting about three to five months.
Migraines
Botox is FDA-approved for chronic migraines, using about 155 units in a specific injection pattern. It can reduce migraine frequency by half for many patients. Dysport isn't approved for this use, but some doctors might use it off-label as they see fit.
Jawline
If you want to contour your jawline, Dysport and Botox can help. Botox is often chosen for its precision, using about 20 to 30 units per side. Dysport's spread can help with overall slimming. Effects typically last four to nine months.
What is Dysport?
Dysport is a neuro-muscular blocker primarily used to smooth out lines between the eyebrows. It makes wrinkles less noticeable by temporarily paralyzing the injection site(s) muscles.
The FDA approved Dysport for cosmetic use in 2009. It's known for its faster onset and wider spread compared to Botox.
Pros and cons
Advantages of Dysport include:
Extensively researched and has a high safety profile
Faster onset, often within two to three days
Wider spread, beneficial for larger areas
Ideal for deeper facial wrinkles
Potentially more natural-looking results for some patients
Some patients say it lasts a bit longer than Botox
Disadvantages include:
The spread can make it less suitable for small, precise areas
Requires more units than Botox however the units are cheaper so the total cost is similar
Not as widely used (compared to Botox)
Units for Dysport treatments
Dysport typically requires more units than Botox.
Here's a general guide:
Forehead lines: 30 to 60 units
Glabellar lines: 50 to 60 units (some individuals with strong muscles need more)
Crow's feet: Around 30 units per side
Bunny lines: Starting at 10 to 20 units
Eyebrow lift: 4 to 8 units per side
Jawline: At least 50 units per side
Neck bands: 20 to 30 units per band (so if you have 4 bands, you are looking at 120 units)
Cost
Dysport costs less per unit than Botox, usually $4 to $8 per unit. But you may need more units, so the total cost is often similar. Exact costs vary depending on your provider’s experience and location.
Number of treatments needed
Most people get a Dysport treatment every three to four months. New users might need a touch-up after the first treatment. But over time, you might be able to wait longer between treatments.
Before & after results
Dysport results often appear in two to three days, with full effects visible after a week. Wrinkles that show when you move your face will be less noticeable or gone. How much it helps depends on your skin, age, and the skill of your provider.
Recovery time
There’s virtually no downtime involved after Dysport treatments. Most patients get back to their normal activities after their appointments. You might have some redness, swelling, or bruising where you got the injections. This usually goes away in a few hours or a day. Avoid hard exercise after treatment.
Lasting effects — how long?
Dysport typically lasts three to four months. Some people report effects for up to five months in the glabellar area. How long it lasts depends on the treatment area, dosage, your metabolism, and lifestyle. Regular treatments might make it last longer over time.
Side effects
Most Dysport side effects are mild if you go to an experienced provider:
Redness, swelling, or bruising at injection sites would be most common (the rest are extremely rare)
Dry mouth or eyes
Eye irritation
Headache
Runny nose
Dizziness
Is Dysport safe?
Yes, Dysport is safe for cosmetic enhancement when administered by trained professionals. Studies show no long-term problems with repeated use. But it's not for everyone. People with nerve or muscle disorders, or allergies to the ingredients, shouldn't use it.
What is Botox?
Botox, the brand name for onabotulinumtoxinA, was the first FDA-approved neurotoxin for cosmetic use in 2002. This injectable treatment temporarily paralyzes muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Unlike Dysport, Botox has a longer history in cosmetic and medical applications. It’s FDA-approved to treat migraines and excessive sweating.
Pros and cons
Advantages of Botox include:
Precise targeting of specific muscles
Extensive research backing and long-term safety data
More established and widely available
Ideal if you’re allergic to milk protein (which Dysport has)
Disadvantages include:
Slower onset (up to 10 days) compared to Dysport
Can look less natural if not done well or overused
Higher cost per unit than Dysport
Units for Botox treatments
Botox typically uses fewer units than Dysport to achieve equivalent effects.
Here's a general guide:
Forehead lines: 6 to 20 units
Glabellar lines: 10 to 25 units
Crow's feet: Starting at 12 units per side
Bunny lines: 4 to 6 units per side
Eyebrow lift: 2 to 5 units per side
Jawline: At least 24 units per side
Neck bands: 8 to 12 units per band
Cost
While Botox typically costs more per unit ($12 to $16) compared to Dysport, you need fewer units to achieve the same outcome. This often results in similar overall treatment costs. Again, prices vary based on location, provider expertise, and treatment areas.
Number of treatments needed
Most patients maintain results with one treatment every three to four months.
However, individual factors can influence this:
First-time users may need touch-ups after initial treatment
With regular use, some patients extend time between sessions
Treatment areas with smaller muscles may see longer-lasting results
Before & after results
Botox results typically become visible four to seven days post-treatment, with full effects seen after about two weeks. This gradual onset can be preferable for those wanting a more subtle change.
Before treatment, dynamic wrinkles are usually prominent during facial expressions. After Botox injections, these lines are significantly reduced or eliminated, resulting in a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Recovery time
Recovery from Botox is very similar to Dysport — quick and minimal. Most go back to their normal routines immediately after the injections. You may experience slight redness, swelling, or bruising at injection sites, but these effects usually subside within hours to a day. Avoid hard exercise after getting Botox.
Lasting effects — how long?
Botox typically lasts three to four months, similar to Dysport. Some people report effects for up to six months in areas with smaller muscles, such as around the eyes. How long it lasts depends on the treatment area, dosage, your metabolism, and lifestyle.
Side effects
Common Botox side effects are mild and may include:
Injection site reactions such as bruising, redness, or swelling are the most common (the others are very rare)
Headache
Droopy eyelids
Crooked eyebrows
Flu-like symptoms
Serious side effects are rare but can occur if the toxin spreads beyond the treatment area. Choosing an injector with many years of experience administering Botox will help you get the best results.
Is Botox safe?
Botox has a well-established safety profile with over two decades of cosmetic use. It's FDA-approved and extensively studied. However, it isn’t suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain neuromuscular disorders or allergies.
Share your health concerns with your aesthetic team during the consultation. From there, they can suggest the best course of action to achieve your goals.
The right candidate for Botox and Dysport
Good candidates for both treatments are:
At least 18 years old
In good health
Have realistic expectations
Have wrinkles that show up when they make facial expressions
Not pregnant or breastfeeding
Don't have nerve or muscle problems
Don't have skin infections in the treatment area
Aren't allergic to the ingredients
Which is more natural?
How natural the results look depends on the person and the injector.
The injector's skill significantly impacts results through precise dosage, strategic placement, and customized treatment plans. An experienced practitioner understands facial anatomy, allowing them to target specific muscles effectively while preserving natural movement. They can also adjust techniques to suit unique facial structures and aesthetic goals — so you get a refreshed look that enhances rather than alters your natural appearance.
Can you switch between Dysport and Botox?
Yes, you can safely switch between Dysport and Botox. Some people do this if one stops working as well, or they may want to see if they like the other better. Just make sure to wait until one treatment wears off before you try the other.
Overall, which is better and more effective?
Your choice between Botox vs. Dysport depends on:
Provider preference and experience
Treatment area
Desired onset of action (Dysport is faster)
Individual response (some respond better to one over the other)
Neither is universally "better" or more effective. Consult a qualified provider to determine the best option for your specific needs.
Other alternatives to Dysport & Botox to consider
Besides Dysport and Botox, it’s worth looking into similar treatments for your anti-aging goals:
Xeomin: Doesn't have extra proteins, and some think it's less likely to cause resistance
Jeuveau: Newer and very similar to Botox in efficacy
Daxxify: Newest and might last longer — up to nine months
Why Skin Matrx for Dysport or Botox treatments — Book an appointment
At Skin Matrx in Burbank, California, Dr. Blanka Orloff brings exceptional expertise to the field of aesthetic medicine.
Her impressive qualifications include:
Education: M.D. from UCLA and residency at UCSF
Specialized training: Over 15 years of experience in injectables and aesthetic medicine
Professional memberships: Member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine
Holistic approach: Considers overall wellness alongside aesthetic goals
Many patients in the Los Angeles area trust Dr. Orloff for their injectable treatments because of her:
Personalized approach: Customized treatment plans for optimal results
Gentle technique: Minimizes discomfort and bruising
Natural-looking results: Enhances natural beauty without an overdone appearance
Commitment to safety: Prioritizes patient safety in all treatments
You can count on her to deliver stunning results with Dysport and Botox treatments by combining medical expertise with an artistic eye. For Dysport or Botox treatments tailored to your unique needs, call 818-600-6719 to book your consultation with Dr. Orloff’s team.