When it comes to non-surgical cosmetic treatments designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, Botox and Dysport lead the pack. Both are FDA-approved injectable treatments that temporarily smooth the lines and wrinkles that make us look tired, stressed, or even angry — but what sets them apart? With a long history of being Gainesville’s best Botox provider, we are passionate about educating clients here at Pure Aesthetics. In this blog, we will dive into a detailed comparison of these popular injectables to help you understand which one might be best for you.
Before you can make an informed decision, it is important to understand the basics of what these injections are. Botox and Dysport are both FDA-approved treatments that are derived from botulinum toxin type A, a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When injected in small doses into specific muscles, it safely causes controlled weakening of the muscles, thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles caused by facial expressions.
Botox: The more well-known of the two, Botox has been used medically since the late 1980s and was approved for cosmetic use in 2002. It’s primarily used to treat crow’s feet (lines around the eye), frown lines, and forehead lines.
Dysport: Having received FDA approval for aesthetic use in 2009, Dysport is newer to the market than Botox. While it’s also used for treating frown lines, Dysport is a prescription that is often preferred for larger areas of treatment, like the forehead, due to its ability to spread a bit more than Botox.
While both Botox and Dysport serve similar purposes, there are key differences between them that can influence a client’s choice.
One of the main differences between these two treatments is the time it takes to see results. Typically, Botox takes between 3-5 days to start showing effects, with full results visible after 7-10 days. Dysport, however, tends to work a bit faster, with results often seen within 1-2 days and full effect within 3-5 days.
Another key difference is how the two products spread after injection. Dysport tends to diffuse more, meaning it spreads out over a larger area after injection. This can be beneficial when treating larger areas, like forehead wrinkles, but can also increase the chances of affecting nearby muscles. One of the primary concerns many people have when considering injectable treatments is the fear of looking “frozen” or unnatural. But Dysport sets itself apart by focusing on a specific area — the moderate to severe frown lines between your eyebrows. This targeted approach allows for a more natural-looking result, ensuring your expressions remain uniquely, beautifully you.
Botox, on the other hand, stays more localized, which can be an advantage when treating smaller, more precise areas like crow’s feet. Another Botox perk is that since it has such a long, effective history, practitioners have also been able to determine safe, effective off-label uses. Some practitioners use Botox to treat muscles that turn down the mouth, which lifts the corners of the mouth for a more cheerful expression. It can even smooth out smoker’s lines in the lips and reduce the appearance of necklace lines on the neck.
In terms of dosage, more units of Dysport are typically required compared to Botox to achieve the same results. However, this doesn’t mean Dysport is less effective; the units simply aren’t equivalent.
As for longevity, Botox treatments typically last around 3-4 months, although this can vary depending on the individual and the area treated. Dysport might last slightly longer than Botox, with many patients reporting that it lasts up to 5 months.
Both Botox and Dysport have similar side effects, including temporary bruising, numbness, or redness at the injection site. In very rare cases, patients may experience headaches, nausea, or flu-like symptoms. More serious side effects, such as difficulty swallowing or breathing, are extremely rare and usually associated with inappropriate dosing or technique.
Both Botox and Dysport injections are priced by the unit. With Botox, you can earn Allē rewards points on your treatments, while with Dysport, you can earn ASPIRE rewards points on your treatments. Click here to learn more.
Both Botox and Dysport are effective, FDA-approved treatments for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The choice between them largely depends on the individual patient’s needs and goals. Factors like desired speed of results, treatment area, and personal preference can all play a role in determining the best choice.
At Pure Aesthetics in Gainesville, our team of Nurse Practitioners and our Physician Assistant offer over 30 years of combined experience to handle all your Botox and Dysport needs. We are dedicated to helping you celebrate your natural beauty and boost your confidence. So, why not embrace the joy of looking as young as you feel? Schedule a free consultation today!
