BOTOX® Cosmetic and Dysport® both soften expression lines by temporarily relaxing the muscles that create them. Dysport may show results sooner, but both can start to work within a few days and last several months. BOTOX has FDA approval for more cosmetic treatment areas, including forehead lines, crow’s feet, and vertical platysmal (neck) bands.
BOTOX Cosmetic vs. Dysport at a Glance
| BOTOX Cosmetic | Dysport | |
|---|---|---|
| Formulation | OnabotulinumtoxinA, a form of botulinum toxin type A | AbobotulinumtoxinA, a different form of botulinum toxin type A |
| When Results Start | Changes may begin within a few days and continue to develop over the following weeks. | Many patients in clinical studies noticed a change in 2 to 3 days. Some noticed a change within 24 hours. |
| How Long Results Last for Frown Lines | About 3 to 4 months | About 3 to 4 months |
| FDA-Approved Cosmetic Uses | Moderate to severe frown lines, forehead lines, crow’s feet, and vertical neck bands in adults | Moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows in adults younger than 65 |
Your injector can recommend an option based on which muscles create your lines and how you’ve responded to previous treatments. To learn more about the formulation and potentcy differences between the 2 neuromodulators, read our related blog post.
Do BOTOX Cosmetic and Dysport Have Similar Side Effects?
Yes. Both treatments can cause temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site. A small percentage of patients experience eyelid drooping after treatment for frown lines between the eyebrows. Your injector can explain which side effects to watch for based on the area you’re treating and your medical history.
Can You Combine BOTOX Cosmetic or Dysport With Dermal Fillers?
Yes. Either wrinkle relaxer can be part of the same treatment plan as dermal fillers. BOTOX Cosmetic and Dysport soften lines caused by facial movement, while fillers add volume in areas such as the cheeks or soften folds around the mouth. If you’d like to address both concerns, your injector can help you decide whether a combination makes sense for you.
BOTOX Cosmetic and Dysport FAQs
Does Dysport cost less than BOTOX Cosmetic?
Overall treatment costs can be similar, even though the price per unit of each neuromodulator typically differs. BOTOX and Dysport use their own dosing units, so comparing the price per unit alone can be misleading. We’ll give you a price estimate before treatment for your specific needs.
Can I switch from BOTOX Cosmetic to Dysport?
Switching may be an option. Tell your injector which product you last received, when you received it, and how you responded. That information helps them plan the timing and dose of your next treatment.
Can I get Dysport if I have a milk allergy?
If you’re allergic to cow’s milk protein, you should avoid Dysport. A milk protein allergy differs from lactose intolerance, so tell your injector which condition you have before treatment.
Find the Right Wrinkle Relaxer for You
If you want to improve your expression lines with BOTOX or Dysport, request a consultation or call us at (480) 214-9955 to schedule an appointment.
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