By now, almost everyone has heard of Botox®, an injectable muscle relaxer that helps turn back the clock on common signs of aging such as crow’s feet. Dysport® (pronounced “diss-port”) is a relative newcomer to the U.S. and Canada, but it’s been a proven option in Europe for years.

Comparing Botox® to Dysport® is like comparing apples to apples – both products are used to address the same types of problems, they are both FDA-approved neuromodulators, they’re chemically alike and extremely safe and effective. Often, the choice of product comes down to personal preference – either for the person receiving the treatment, or the licensed injection specialist performing the procedure.

So how are these two products alike, and what are the key differences?

How Botox® and Dysport® Are Similar

As we age, we develop wrinkles from repetitive facial expressions such as frowning, squinting and laughing. Both Botox® and Dysport® work by relaxing the underlying muscles and preventing them from being able to contract. The resulting reduction in movement helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles in the area.

The effects of Botox® and Dysport® injections are long-lasting, but not permanent. After approximately three to four months, nerve impulses will begin to reach the targeted muscle again. The muscle will regain its ability to contract, causing the fine lines and wrinkles to reappear. However, a qualified injector can maintain the natural-looking results of neuromodulators with consistent treatment sessions.

How Botox® and Dysport® Differ

The contrast between these two injectable products is related to variances in their formulas.

Dilution: Dysport® is more diluted than Botox®. However, this does not mean Dysport® is less effective than Botox®; it just means it takes a greater quantity of Dysport® to get the same results.

Diffusion: After it’s injected, Dysport® tends to spread to a wider area than Botox®, which can be advantageous when addressing larger treatment areas, such as wide forehead wrinkles. It takes fewer injections to achieve the desired results, which equals less discomfort. However, this diffusion means Dysport® may be a less ideal treatment for smaller areas that require greater accuracy, or areas where the muscles are thicker, such as the space between your eyebrows.

Molecule size: Dysport®’s formula contains smaller protein particles than Botox®, which means you will notice the results of Dysport® injections sooner (2 to 5 days vs. 4 to 7 days for Botox®).

Many patients find that a combination of Dysport® and Botox® is highly effective at giving them a subtly relaxed and younger appearance. For example, you may choose Dysport® injections for your forehead and Botox® for your crow’s feet. Dysport® is also an excellent alternative for anyone who has developed a resistance to Botox® over long-term use.

Remember, the injector’s technique and qualifications are always more important than what product is being injected. When you choose to get injections, always make sure they are performed by someone with expertise and a high level of skill. An experienced injection specialist will be extremely familiar with facial musculature and will know precisely where to place the correct amount of product exactly where it will have the desired effect.

What to Expect from Botox® and Dysport® Injections

More and more people are turning to Botox® and Dysport® as opposed to more invasive cosmetic procedures because they’re so quick and convenient. Now, thanks to these products, you can look younger and more refreshed after a single quick treatment session with no need for a lengthy recovery period. In fact, you will be able to return to your typical daily routine immediately after the procedure with nobody able to detect that you had “work done.”

The side effects of Botox® and Dysport® are relatively mild. While you can choose to have the treatment area numbed with a topical anesthetic, many people report the injections are relatively painless, even without the numbing agent. You may experience bruising, swelling and soreness around the injection site, but these small side effects should disappear after a week. Though it is rare, some patients have a minor skin reaction to the formula, including redness, itching or tingling.

At M Spa Face and Body, we are passionate about providing our patients in the Clear Lake area with natural-looking solutions to their aging challenges. Experienced, licensed providers will create an individualized treatment plan for you and perform every procedure with attention to detail and the highest possible level of patient care.

If you are ready to learn more about how Botox® and Dysport® injections can benefit you, contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.