BOTOX® and Dysport® are both common and effective ways to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles. One of the biggest benefits of injectable antiaging treatments is there’s no downtime or surgery involved. Although BOTOX and Dysport are very similar, they do have some differences. Here’s what to know about these two neuromodulators and how they can help transform your look.
1. Side Effects
Although severe Botox and Dysport side effects are uncommon, minor side effects sometimes occur. These typically include things like redness, bruising, swelling, and irritation. However, side effects from BOTOX and Dysport subside quickly (usually within a day or two). Moderate side effects can include drooping if the product spreads to nearby muscles. Although it’s very rare, both BOTOX and Dysport can cause botulinum toxicity. This severe complication occurs when the infection spreads to other parts of your body. Your dermatologist will discuss the risks and whether BOTOX or Dysport is right for your goals.
2. Treatment Effectiveness
Results of Botox and Dysport are visible within 1-2 weeks of your treatment session. You can return home immediately after treatment (with some detailed aftercare instructions) and won’t need to plan any downtime. Although there can be some minor differences in how long BOTOX and Dysport last, they typically produce results for 3-4 months.
3. Molecular Differences
BOTOX and Dysport are simply different brands of the same product. If there are any differences between BOTOX and Dysport, they occur on a molecular level. There are slight differences in the proteins used to make BOTOX and Dysport, but they accomplish the same goal. Dysport contains ingredients that might produce an allergic reaction in some patients, so make sure to discuss any allergies with your dermatologist.
4. Price comparison
BOTOX and Dysport are priced according to the units needed for your results. However, it’s important to know that these units are not a direct translation – for example, Dysport may seem cheaper on the surface, but that’s because more units of Dysport are typically needed to produce similar results to BOTOX. Although there may be minor price differences, BOTOX and Dysport are very comparable when it comes to price.
5. Dilution Levels
Dysport is not diluted the same way as Botox. You may need more units of Dysport to get the same effect as BOTOX – however, this doesn’t mean that Dysport is an inferior product. In fact, experienced injectors can use Dysport to great effect because of its dilution. It’s only important to know that switching from Dysport to BOTOX (or vice versa) might drastically change the number of units you need.
Schedule an Appointment
Choosing between BOTOX and Dysport ultimately comes down to your goals, preferences, and choice in injector. To meet with our team and learn more about your options for cosmetic injectables, contact Arlington Dermatology by calling or filling out our online contact form.
