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Dysport and Botox are prescription injectables that can reduce the appearance of skin aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. Doctors may also recommend them as medical treatments, but most people use them for cosmetic reasons.
Dysport and Botox are similar nonsurgical procedures with different features. They are neuromodulators, meaning they soften skin creases and reduce facial muscle contractions. They help smoothen the lines that appear as a result of smiling, frowning, or squinting.
This article describes the differences and similarities between Dysport and Botox. It also looks at their other uses and other ways to treat wrinkles.
The following is a comparison of Dysport and Botox.
About Dysport and Botox
Dysport is an injectable containing Botulinum toxin type A, or abobotulinumtoxin A. It has Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval to treat intramuscular areas.
It is a temporary wrinkle treatment that works on severe frown lines between the eyes. The injection works by preventing muscle contractions in these areas.
Botox is FDA-approved to treat frown lines between the eyes, forehead lines, and crow’s feet — the lines that develop around the eyes.
It originates from Botulinum toxin, which comes from Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that causes botulism. Botulism is a rare disease that attacks the body’s nervous system and causes breathing difficulties and muscle paralysis.
Efficacy
A small 2019 study reviewing the effects of Dysport found that it removed frown lines in nearly 90% of participants 30 days after getting the injection.
A 2018 study involving 10 women between the ages of 32 and 61 years reports that Dysport may help reduce facial laxity and wrinkles. The researchers conclude that it can be a safe facial lifting procedure for some people.
A study published in 2017 involving 300 participants suggests that botox can reduce the appearance of crow’s feet lines with no notable adverse effects.
Results
Dysport and Botox provide temporary treatment for the signs of skin aging.
A 2019 review explains that Botox blocks the release of acetylcholine, leading to muscle paralysis. Effects typically last 3–6 months.
Dysport’s results may appear 2–3 days after a session but usually last a minimum of 12 weeks. However, the manufacturer states that results may last up to 5 months.
Cost
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, as of 2019, the price per unit for Botox was $10–15.
Forehead and eye-area treatments usually require about 30–40 units, putting the cost of a session at $300–600.
At $4 per unit, Dysport is cheaper than Botox. People can expect to pay around $450 per session. It is worth noting, however, that Dysport treatment usually requires more units than Botox.
A person may discuss their financial situation with their doctor and see whether monthly payments may be an option.
This table provides a brief comparison of Dysport vs. Botox:
People should seek medical advice if they are interested in treatment for skin aging. Doctors can outline the different options available and potential side effects that may arise.
Factors a person can consider when choosing between Dysport and Botox include:
- Doctor’s background: It is important to look into what areas a doctor specializes in. If in doubt, a person can ask the clinic directly and request before and after photos.
- Cost: Dysport may be more affordable than Botox. However, those who wish to opt for Botox may ask if financing is an option.
- Results: People should consider the potential results of both products.
Botox or Dysport can also treat certain medical conditions.
Dysport
Doctors may recommend Dysport to people with blepharospasm. Blepharospasm is a condition that causes uncontrollable tightening of the eyelids, blinking, and squinting.
Dysport may also treat other disorders, including:
- cervical dystonia in adults
- upper limb spasticity in adults
- lower limb spasticity in children
Botox
Botox injections may be beneficial for people with:
Some people may consider opting for injectable dermal fillers to plump the skin.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, aging tends to stretch the skin, causing sagging and lines. Dermal fillers help reduce the appearance of facial lines, enhance shallow contours, and make the skin appear fuller. They are not permanent treatments; people will need follow-up visits for touch-ups.
To help reduce the signs of skin aging, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends:
- regularly using sunscreen with at least SPF 30
- moisturizing the skin to make it appear brighter and reduce the appearance of fine lines, as moisturizers trap water in the skin
- stopping the use of products that cause a burning sensation, as these may make lines more visible
- avoiding sun exposure, as UV rays can damage the skin and speed up the aging process
Doctors use Dysport and Botox injectables to treat fine lines and crow’s feet. They both have similar features, but Botox tends to last longer and is more expensive.
Dysport and Botox can also treat health conditions such as uncontrollable blinking and underarm sweating.
A medical professional can advise on available treatments and discuss possible side effects.