As time marches on and the effects of aging leave behind hard-to-erase fine lines and wrinkles, a little help from an injectable neurotoxin is usually needed to create smooth, wrinkle-free skin. This easy, quick, and reliable treatment works wonders, no matter if you are injected with Dysport or Botox. While both options treat fine lines and wrinkles resulting from repeated facial movements, there are plenty of differences to know about each option when considering Dysport vs. Botox so that you can make the right treatment choice for you.
How Botox Works
Botox is an injectable neurotoxin that effectively reduces the appearance of unwanted wrinkles and lines. It works by blocking muscle-to-nerve communication. As a result, when the nerves that control muscle contractions cannot move normally, muscle movement becomes limited, and the muscle itself is unable to cause wrinkles. Therefore, the treatment has a softening effect on the skin, resulting in fewer lines and wrinkles.
Since its introduction more than 20 years ago, Botox has become the go-to noninvasive way to treat unwanted forehead lines, crow’s feet, and lines between the eyebrows. Still, there are plenty of other off-label uses for it, too. At Skin Social, we use the treatment to address excessive hand and armpit sweating, to reduce tension in the traps, to treat the lower face (masseter, platysmal neck bands), for nasal slimming, and to give a subtle lift to the eyelids when sagging is an issue.
Botox, like all other neurotoxins, is not a permanent treatment, and the results last, on average, three to four months. To remain wrinkle-free, you should repeat the treatment every few months to uphold the effects.
Benefits of Botox Treatment & Benefits of Dysport
There are several reasons why patients choose to get regular Botox and Dysport injections. The most obvious one is its wrinkle-reducing effects, even though they are temporary, but other benefits of Botox and Dysport include:
- A quick, easy, and affordable anti-aging treatment
- Improved overall facial balance
- Increased self-confidence
- No downtime or recovery
- It can aid in medical conditions like excessive sweating, muscle spasms, and migraines
- Quick treatment with fast results
- Natural-looking results
Effectiveness and Results of Botox Compared to Dysport
If you are considering Dysport and Botox and weighing the benefits of each, it’s essential to know that both have wrinkle-reducing capabilities. Still, the molecular structure of each injectable is different, so the results may differ slightly depending on which one you choose to have injected. The formulas for Botox and Dysport are based on the amount of protein used in each.
Dysport is more diffuse, meaning it works well on larger areas, and its wrinkle-reducing effects usually kick in after just a few days. On the other hand, Botox is better for more precise treatment, although it might take up to a week for full effect on some. Some people find that the effects of Dysport last slightly longer than Botox.
While some injectors may charge differently for Dysport and Botox, we price ours the same since the ratio of Dysport to Botox is somewhat similar.
Safety and Side Effects of Botox
All injectable neurotoxins, including Botox, have potential side effects, which are minimal but still something to note. Some of the more common side effects include mild bruising, redness, discomfort at the treatment site, minor swelling, and drooping eyelids. Naturally, any of these side effects dissipate on their own, some taking longer than others to fully subside.
Choosing Dysport: Considerations and Consultation Tips
Not every person requires the same number of units of Botox vs. Dysport to erase their lines and wrinkles. That’s why it’s crucial only to seek treatment with a skilled, experienced, and well-trained provider who understands how to dose your injections—too much can cause adverse effects, and not enough may not give you the results you are after.
When considering Dysport, one of the most significant factors to take note of is that it offers better results compared to other types of injectables. Dysport may be a good option if you’ve tried other anti-wrinkle treatments that aren’t quite working. The earlier you start with routine injections, the more of a benefit you’ll see over the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Botox compare to Dysport in terms of longevity of results?
Botox and Dysport last for about the same time—three to four months—although some patients may see longer-lasting results with one injectable over the other. This is dependent on the injectable used, the treatment area, and how fast your body naturally metabolizes the neurotoxin. Botox is also more of a localized treatment, so the treated areas may have a more noticeable effect that may seem to last for longer.
What are the typical areas treated with Botox injections?
The most common areas of the face to treat with Botox include:
- Frown lines
- Forehead lines
- Bunny lines
- Crow’s feet
- The chin
- The area between the eyebrows
- A gummy smile
- Platysma bands of the neck
- To lift the eyebrows
- The upper lip for a lip flip
Are there any risks or side effects specific to Botox treatments?
Botox is considered a safe treatment, and complications and serious side effects are rare. However, minor side effects post-treatment include minimal pain or discomfort in the treated area, swelling or mild bruising, and a headache for the first 24 hours. Temporary weakness and droopiness in the face can also occur.
How can I ensure the best results from Botox injections?
To get the best results possible from your Botox treatment, it’s essential to seek treatment with a qualified and experienced injector and follow all their pre- and post-treatment recommendations.
What should I discuss with my provider before opting for Botox treatments?
During your consultation, discuss your reason for wanting Botox with your provider, what you hope to achieve with the treatment, your medical history and past experiences with Botox or other neurotoxins, and your overall concerns. It’s also important to be honest about your health and lifestyle factors that may impact your Botox treatment.
