Wrinkle-Free: What’s the Difference Between Botox vs Dysport?

Crow’s feet. Frown lines. Forehead lines. These phrases are becoming all too familiar to you, and you want to stop thinking about them as soon as possible. That’s why you’re considering getting a botulinum neurotoxin injection.

Which of these injections should you get? Two of the most popular are Botox and Dysport. And while both have their pros, both have their cons as well. Nonetheless, they’re solid options. 

So, to help you decide between the two, we’re going to compare them in detail below. Ready? Then let’s begin the battle of Botox vs Dysport. 

How Do They Work?

First of all, you might be questioning, “how does Botox work?” or “how does Dysport work?” or “how do neurotoxins work, in general?” To put it simply, they prevent specific muscles from contracting. And, when used for beautification purposes, they prevent certain facial muscles from contracting, in particular. 

What’s the purpose of this as it pertains to preventing wrinkles? Well, see, it’s those affected muscles that typically cause wrinkles in the first place. As such, if they aren’t able to contract, they won’t be put in a position that allows wrinkles to form. 

The neurotoxins (Botox and Dysport) are essentially manipulating the nerves in the face to prevent face wrinkles from occurring. 

Now, you might be questioning the safety of such substances. However, in truth, Botox and Dysport injections are extremely safe. Neurotoxins are only dangerous when used in large volumes (which is not true with either Botox injections or Dysport injections). 

Comparing Their Characteristics

We’ve discussed the way that Botox and Dysport work. Now, let’s compare them against one another by discussing their various characteristics in detail:

Cost

Botox and Dysport costs can be calculated either by unit or by the size of the area that they’re used on. For the sake of this article, we’re going to discuss their price in units. 

Put simply, Dysport is cheaper than Botox. Whereas a unit of Botox runs between $10 and $15, a unit of Dysport runs between $4 and $8.

Let’s say you’re using 20 units on your forehead. That would be between $200 and $300 for Botox and between $80 and $160 for Dysport, a substantial difference as you can see. 

Safety

By and large, Botox and Dysport are safe to use. However, both options can serve up some side effects. These side effects run the gamut from headaches to numbness to general pain and more. 

In some cases, you might even experience droopy eyelids and muscle spasms. In the most severe of cases (these are very rare), you can experience speaking, swallowing, and breathing difficulties. 

There are cases in which Botox has caused permanent facial paralysis. Note, though, that is an exceedingly rare occurrence. 

In short, while Botox and Dysport can have some negative side effects, they are, generally speaking, safe to use. 

Ease of Treatment

Botox and Dysport are administered in the same way (they’re injected into the face). As such, their ease of treatment is about equal. 

You can go into the doctor’s office, get your shots, and leave within just a few minutes. Afterward, you can do whatever you want to do. Life will resume as normal immediately following the appointment. 

Results

Where you’ll notice a big difference between Dysport and Botox is in their results. Whereas Botox benefits the entire face, Dysport only helps the glabellar lines. These are the vertical lines above the eyebrows. 

So, if you’re only looking to smooth out the wrinkles above your eyebrows, Dysport would work for you. If you’re looking to smooth out crow’s feet and forehead lines in addition to the wrinkles above your eyebrows, you’ll have to go with Botox. 

Length of Results

Botox and Dysport can both help to temporarily smooth out wrinkles. They can even set wrinkling back a few years. Note, though, that they don’t offer long-term results. 

In addition, there is some difference in their results when compared to one another. Namely, Dysport’s results take effect sooner after injections are administered but botox’s results tend to last longer. 

Dysport tends to kick in within 2 to 4 days; Botox tends to take 1 to 2 weeks. Dysport lasts between 3 and 3 1/2 months; Botox usually lasts around 4 months. 

Recovery

Neither Botox nor Dysport treatment requires much of a recovery process. The procedures are carried out with the use of a general anesthetic. This numbs the face before injections are given, therefore eliminating most pain. 

You will likely feel some soreness after the injections have been given. However, this should be mild and should go away within a day. In the meantime, you can keep down swelling and discomfort by applying a cold pack for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. 

It might be a good idea to take some Ibuprofen or another pain reliever as well. You shouldn’t need anything more than an over-the-counter pain med. 

Viable Candidates

There are very few restrictions as to who can receive Botox and/or Dysport injections. However, there are some. 

If you’re pregnant, or if you’re taking medications for muscle spasms, you’re advised to stay away from both procedures. If you have a milk allergy, you’re advised to stay away from the Dysport procedure. All other individuals can benefit from both procedures as desired.  

Availability

In terms of availability, Botox and Dysport are equals. You can undergo these procedures at essentially all cosmetic surgery offices.

Just go to Google and type in “Botox near me” or “Dysport near me“. You’re sure to find many reputable suppliers in your area. 

Botox vs Dysport: A Close Call

In truth, it’s difficult to make a call in the battle of Botox vs Dysport. Both of these have upsides, but downsides as well. So, do your research, and make the choice that best satisfies your situation. 

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