Botox vs. Dysport

By Dima Ali, MD

A question that is commonly asked is, “Which is better Botox^® or Dysport^®?” Both Botox and Dysport are brand names of neurotoxins manufactured by different companies but derived from the same bacterium, Clostridium botulinum.

Just like Coke or Pepsi, which one is right for you really comes down to a matter of personal preference. Scientifically, both are neurotoxins that work by preventing the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that attaches to muscle cells causing them to contract. This results in weakening or paralysis of the muscles and the overlying skin flattens out resulting in wrinkle reduction and the appearance of rejuvenated skin.

Even though they are both type A botulinum toxins, their non-toxin protein content is different due to differences in their manufacturing. Essentially, Dysport is a fermented version of bacterium Clostridium botulinum type A, whereas Botox is not made from a fermented variety. Although the name Botox sounds familiar to most, Dysport is a great alternative and has been popular in Europe for decades.

Efficacy and Speed

Both are safe and effective ways to temporarily reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Typically, you can expect to see results from Dysport within in 2–3 days of your treatment. With Botox the onset of action can take a little longer and results are usually first seen between 3–5 days after the injections.

Neither treatment provides permanent wrinkle reduction, but you can expect your results to last about three months with either one. Typically patients are treated no sooner than three months as this can eventually lead to fewer efficacies when done over many years.

Safety and Convenience

Botulinum toxin has been around for decades. Between the 1940s to 1970s, researchers began investigating its use in neurological and ophthalmological disease. It eventually became FDA approved for several movement and autonomic disorders including cervical dystonia (CD), hyperactive bladder, hyperhidrosis, migraine, and spasticity.

For cosmetic purposes, both Botox and Dysport are FDA approved and considered a very safe way to rejuvenate your appearance. The injection process is usually completed in ten minutes or less and there is no downtime. Slight redness at the injection site is common and usually resolves in a few minutes. Bruising is rare and resolves in a few days.

Are You A Candidate
for Botox or Dysport?

Botox and Dysport are used on patients who have moderate to severe wrinkles and fine lines. Generally, patients are advised to start getting treatments when they begin to see lines at rest – that is when they are not making a facial expression. They can also be used to treat migraine headaches, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), TMJ pain or teeth grinding, facial/jaw slimming, softening of the platysmal neck bands, deep lines around the mouth, correcting a gummy smile, pebble chins and neck spasms. Reasons to be cautious about treatment include milk allergy, pregnancy, neurological or immune disorders to name a few.

Which One is Better?

Although they have slightly different cosmetic FDA indications, both are effective for improving the appearance of moderate to severe forehead/frown lines and lines around the eyes (crows feet). They are also very similar in price. Do you like Honeycrisp or Fuji apples? It’s a matter of preference. Ultimately, it’s not about which one is better but rather about who is doing the injection.