Dysport® vs BOTOX®: What Is The Difference?

by Donna McAteer
September 21, 2022

BOTOX® injections are considered the most popular non-surgical, cosmetic procedure in the world. While it has many therapeutic applications, BOTOX® is commonly used to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles that develop on your face and forehead due to everyday facial expressions. As research into anti-aging techniques evolves, injectables similar to BOTOX® continue to be developed. Dysport® is a cosmetic technology derived from a similar main ingredient as BOTOX®, botulinum toxin A. It is the trace proteins that attach to the molecules that define each product. As there are slight nuances to each therapy, this article explores exactly what the difference is between them.

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What Exactly Are Dysport® and BOTOX®?

Dysport® is a gentle, minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure, approved for use in more than 24 countries over the past decade and a half. Dysport® injections are primarily used in the forehead area, specifically to treat the deep lines in the shape of an ‘11’ between your eyes that occur from furrowing your brow. These creases, called glabellar lines, become more noticeable when you squint or frown. Over time, they will become more pronounced even when your face is relaxed. Dysport® reduces the appearance of lines that affect the glabella, the area between your eyebrows, which provides a fresher, naturally youthful appearance. In addition to glabellar lines, Dysport® can also be used to:

Eliminate forehead lines
Smooth out crow’s feet
Reduce wrinkles around the mouth
Improve nasal squint lines

A Health Canada-approved neurotoxin, BOTOX® works by blocking signals from your nerves to your facial muscles, which relaxes them, and your skin will appear smoother, without undesirable frown lines and wrinkles. Considering the results you can obtain through BOTOX® therapy, it is a relatively affordable, quick, and low pain experience compared to surgery.

How Do Dysport® and BOTOX® Work?
While Dysport® and BOTOX® are both derived from botulinum toxin, they are safe to use in small amounts to treat the effects of natural aging on your appearance. They work similarly, as a neuromodulator, which means that they block nerve signals. However, there are differences at the molecular level. While just as effective as BOTOX®, the molecules in Dysport® are smaller, and spread faster. Dysport® is not intended for use in larger volumes, especially in the forehead, so that it does not spread beyond the treatment area. As Dysport® is typically used only for glabellar lines, if you are considering treatment in multiple areas, you may want to consider BOTOX®.

What Is The Difference?
Dysport® and BOTOX® are types of neurotoxins that block muscle contractions, making them both effective wrinkle treatments, with quick recovery rates, and little downtime. While they have many similarities, there are some differences between the two treatments. This could mean some people find one more effective than the other in treating their specific concerns.

	Dysport®	BOTOX®
TREATMENT TYPE	Non-surgical: treats moderate to severe frown lines in between eyes, known as ‘11’s or glabellar lines. An in-office procedure that typically takes no more than 15 minutes per treatment.	Non-surgical: treats light to moderate frown lines in between eyes (‘glabellar’), plus forehead lines, squinting lines or ‘crow’s feet’, smokers lines around the mouth, bunny nose lines, and more. Can take 15 - 60 minutes to deliver the BOTOX®, depending on the treatment area involved.
PAIN	Light pricking sensation, painless, some sensitivity at injection site afterwards. Some patients report a slight headache. These effects are minor and will resolve quickly.	Light pricking sensation, numbness,and sensitivity are possible after procedure. These effects are minor and will resolve quickly.
HOW LONG BEFORE I SEE RESULTS?	Dysport® has a very quick onset and typically, you will be able to enjoy your results within 2-3 days of your procedure. For a longer lasting effect, maintain a 4 month treatment schedule	Results often take 4-7 days to begin to see the effect of treatment.
EXPECTED RESULTS	Muscles are relaxed, smoothing skin in the injection area for 4-5 months. The injected area maintains a soft, natural feel.	Muscles relax, smoothing skin for approximately 3-4 months, or longer in some people.
EXPENSE	Moderate - however, may require more units to attain equivalent impact as BOTOX® injections	Higher cost but 3x as effective per unit
WHEN TO AVOID IT	If you: Are allergic to botulinum toxin or cow's milk protein. Have swelling, infection, or muscle weakness in the treatment area. Are pregnant or breastfeeding Take muscle relaxants or medications your practitioners advise against.	If you: Are allergic to botulinum toxin or cow's milk protein. Have swelling, infection, or muscle weakness in the treatment area. Are pregnant or breastfeeding. Take muscle relaxants or medications your practitioners advise against.

Make The Choice That Is Right For You

Every person has a unique biological make up. As with many products and services, results vary from person to person. So, at Okanagan Skin Care Centre, our skin care experts will discuss these cosmetic therapies with you to help you make the best choice for yourself.

During your in-depth consultation, you will be able to discuss your aesthetic goals for the chosen treatment beforehand, to help identify specific injection points to achieve the most successful results. Our highly-qualified practitioners will advise you how to prepare for your cosmetic procedure, and what steps you should take for optimal recovery. Book a consultation with one of our skin care experts in Kelowna by calling (250) 868-9290 or by submitting a message through our contact form.

FAQ

Q: Will injectables cause permanent changes to my face?
A: Because the effects of Dysport® and BOTOX® are not permanent, successive treatments every 3-4 months are recommended to maintain your natural-looking, youthful results.

Q: How do BOTOX® injections work?
A: BOTOX® injections block signals from your facial nerves to your muscles. The treated muscles are no longer able to contract, which causes the wrinkles to relax and soften. Though it has many uses, it is most often used to eliminate forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines. Unfortunately, some people are BOTOX® resistant, so the effects wear off sooner. Eventually patients can develop full resistance, which means it's time to look at other anti-aging skin care options.

Q: Is Dysport® treatment painful?
A: Dysport® is injected using an ultra-fine needle which means that the procedure is relatively quick and painless. Optionally, a topical numbing solution can be applied to the treatment area prior to the procedure to ensure that you are kept as relaxed and comfortable as possible.

Q: How long will it take to recover after Dysport® or BOTOX® treatment?
A: Both Dysport® and BOTOX® injections can be administered in our offices in only minutes. Most patients return to their daily routine immediately following treatment.

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Donna McAteer

Donna is the general manager and has been with the Okanagan Skin Care Centre for over 14 years. She is a certified Esthetician and previous business owner with over 20 years enjoying the skin care industry. Her passion for knowledge, integral client care and maintaining a synergistic team that represents professional excellence in skin care remains her focus.