Botox and Dysport are very similar. Both are a type of botulinum type A used to relax muscles that cause wrinkles, the most common being deep forehead lines, frown lines and crows feet. Both products are similar, but some prefer one over the other. Dysport is a smaller-sized molecule so its unit measurement is different than Botox but calculating equivalent dosing is easy. This is why one unit of Dysport is cheaper than Botox, but keep in mind that you will need more units of Dysport to equal 1 unit of Botox. (There are 100 units in a bottle of Botox and 300 in a bottle of Dysport yet the cost is equivalent). In the end, except for clinics running specials for one or the other, the cost of the treatment is basically the same.
Botox entered the US market before Dysport but Dysport was widely used in Europe long before its availability here. Both have a high safety profile and both can be used on other parts of the face and body. Both Dysport and Botox must be injected every 3-6 months. Both show similar efficacy and side effects, and in most double-blind clinical studies both the patient and the doctor were unable to tell the results apart.
There has been much discussion about the differences (if any) between Botox and Dysport. The differences are subtle enough that there is not universal agreement but there are a few things most Physicians and RN Injectors do agree on:
- Dysport has a slightly quicker onset (usually 2-5 days, while Botox starts working in 4-6). Occasional reports suggest that Dysport might last a little longer than Botox but every treatment varies a little and if there is a difference, it is subtle at best. In truth, the dose given is more important than the product for longer results.
- Dysport has more diffusion or spread, therefore you may get away with slightly fewer injections.
- Some patients report that Dysport gives a more natural overall look or not such a “heavy” feeling as Botox. Others feel that Botox gives a better “freeze” if that is what they desire. (Keep in mind that these types of reports are totally subjective and subtle at best!)
- It appears that a small number of people develop antibodies against Botox, rendering it ineffective. Dysport does appear to provide an alternative for these individuals since it is a different molecule and not susceptible to the Botox antibody.
Both Botox and Dysport currently have rebates available from their manufacturer. The program for Botox is called Brilliant Distinctions and the program for Dysport is Galderma Rewards.
Ultimately, it is far more important WHO is injecting your Botox or Dysport, than which of these two products is used. Great results come from an experienced injector, not the product! Injection technique is far more important than which brand is injected, so seek out an experienced injector. Don’t hesitate to ask for educational background, experience, or credentials!
