If you have been using the internet and social media for the past couple of years, you would have heard about wrinkle relaxant treatments such as Botox and Dysport at least once.
Several people including Hollywood celebrities, social media influencers, to maybe even your next-door neighbor have already given a chance to this popular way of regaining smooth skin.
But if you are new to Botox or Dysport it would be hard to decide which one could be more beneficial for you. In this article, we will examine the difference between Botox vs Dysport to help you choose the more suitable one for you.
What is Botox and Dysport?
Both Botox and Dysport are derived from a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. The onbotuliniumtoxinA from Clostridium botulinum comes under the brand name “Botox”.
Whereas abobotuluniumtoxinA is sold under the brand name “Dysport”. They work by temporarily paralyzing the muscles they come in contact with. They are usually used to remove wrinkles, and fine lines from your face, neck, and forehead.
Botox vs Dysport: Key Differences
Even though both Botox and Dysport have a similar way of working, they have some fundamental differences that make them unique from each other.
Botox has a smaller peptide chain in comparison to Dysport. So, Botox particles usually don’t spread from the injected area as much as Dysport particles might. Dysport’s ability to spread into a larger area lets it act faster than Botox.
However, the effects of Dysport wear off faster than Botox. The effects of Botox usually last about 3-4 months, whilst Dysport wears off after 2-3 months.
This means that more frequent maintenance shots are required for Dysport. Dysport may come in handy if you are looking to treat a larger area for a shorter period.
Botox vs Dysport: Which is More Effective?
The effectiveness of Botox and Dysport can vary depending on the skill and technique of the technician. However, some anecdotal evidence and studies suggest that in terms of muscle relaxant abilities, botox might have a slight edge over Dyspot.
It is not surprising since Botox contains a more concentrated dose per unit. Additionally, the more units of injections you take, the more effective it can be.
Though Botox is more potent, Dysport has been shown to work more effectively for large surface areas like the forehead and frown lines (glabellar lines). On the other hand, Botox might be more effective for crow’s feet, and lip lines.
Botox vs Dysport: Cost
If you are looking at a per-unit cost, Dysport costs less than Botox. One unit of Botox can cost around $10-15 whereas Dysport will come under $3-8.
However, since Dysport is more diluted you might need to use more units to get the desired result. It is considered that one unit of Botox can be equivalent to 3 units of Dysport. So in the end, the price disparity could be negligible.
Side effects of Botox vs Dysport
Botox and Dysport are nonsurgical cosmetic procedures that have a short downtime. They both usually do not lead to any serious side effects. However, some common discomforts include:
- Numbness or pain around the injection site
- Minor swelling or bruising
- Headaches
- Droopy upper eyelid or eye stain.
The technique of the person injecting can minimize the possibility of side effects. However, in some rare cases, more serious side effects like muscle weakness or blurry vision are seen.
Pros and Cons of Botox
Below are some of the notable pros and cons of Botox.
Pros
- More potent and more concentrated than Dysport.
- The result may last for 3-4 months.
- More effective for smaller areas.
- Since it has been around longer, technicians might have an easier time with Botox.
Cons
- Typically, it is more expensive.
- Longer onset duration usually takes up to 2-5 days for it to start working.
- In some cases, it can make your face more rigid and may limit expressiveness.
Pros and Cons of Dysport
Here are some of the pros and cons of Dysport.
Pros
- Dysport starts working faster than Botox.
- Per unit, cost is cheaper in comparison to Botox.
- May provide a smoother natural look.
Cons
- Effects wear off faster than Botox.
- Can spread to more regions than intended.
- May require more shots than Botox might to achieve the desired effect.
Botox vs Dysport: What is Better?
There is no straight answer to this question. Though Botox seems like a more effective alternative, it entirely depends on where you are choosing to apply. Here are some general factors that can help determine suitability:
- If you are looking for a quick fix, you may choose Dysport.
- If you need the effects to last longer, Botox could be the better choice.
- Dysport might give you a more natural look as opposed to a temporary frozen face from Botox treatment.
- Weigh in the number of units and compare what the complete procedure can cost you. Remember to factor in maintenance shots as well.
- Based on your unique features, the dermatologist or technician might suggest what could be a better option for you.
To combat the possibility of developing antibodies for either Botox or Dysport, some may choose to alternate between each other.
Also Read: Can Botox Cause Headaches? All You Need To Know
Conclusion
Botox and Dysport are the two most popular ways to get rid of wrinkles and fine lines on the face, forehead, or neck. Since both of them have a similar working mechanism, it can become difficult to choose what works best for you.
In this article, we have explored the differences between Botox vs Dysport to determine what makes both of them unique.
Both Botox and Dysport are derived from the same bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. However, they contain two different toxins that can temporarily paralyze your muscles. Botox is more concentrated and can be used to target specific regions whereas Dysport is more diluted and can spread to more regions from the injection site.
Botox and Dysport usually lead to no serious side effects but you may experience some discomforts such as pain and numbness immediately after the procedure. In rare cases, serious side effects like impaired vision are seen.
You can weigh in the pros and cons of both Botox and Dysport while considering your needs to determine what might suit the best for you. So, which one would you choose? Let me know in the comments.
