Botox and Dysport are popular neuromodulator injections used to reduce facial wrinkles. Both contain botulinum toxin type A and work by blocking nerve signals to muscles, but they differ in composition, diffusion, dosage, and onset of action. In this guide, we compare Dysport vs Botox in depth – from how they work to costs, pros and cons, unit differences, and even how they stack up against Xeomin. We’ll also include before/after insights and FAQs to help you decide which treatment might be right for your needs.

Image: Comparison of Dysport vs Botox treatment results on forehead wrinkles (Dysport 7 days vs Botox 14 days). Dysport often acts faster, producing noticeable improvement in about 1 week, whereas Botox may take up to 2 weeks.

What Are Dysport and Botox?

Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) and Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) are both FDA-approved cosmetic injectables derived from Clostridium botulinum type A. They relax facial muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles (lines from facial expressions) and smooth the overlying skin. Botox, the pioneer neuromodulator, was FDA-approved in 2002. Dysport, introduced later in 2009, has gained popularity for certain advantages. In practice, both target similar areas – e.g. forehead lines, frown lines (“11s”), crow’s feet – and offer results lasting several months.

The main difference lies in their formulation and how they spread. Botox contains a heavier protein complex, while Dysport has smaller protein molecules, contributing to Dysport’s wider diffusion under the skin. Because of this, Dysport often requires more injection units (e.g. roughly 2.5–3× more) than Botox to achieve the same effect.

Both treatments require expert administration and carry similar side effects (e.g. minor bruising, headache). They are safe when administered by a qualified injector. Botox has broader FDA indications (e.g. migraine prevention, excessive sweating) beyond aesthetics, whereas Dysport’s cosmetic approval is mainly for wrinkle reduction. Notably, Botox is the most widely used neurotoxin in the U.S., with about 7 million people receiving it each year. Dysport is popular in Europe and gaining ground in the U.S. due to its faster onset in some cases.

How Do Dysport and Botox Work?

Both Dysport and Botox are botulinum toxin type A products. They are injected into specific muscles where they block the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that causes muscle contraction. By temporarily paralyzing these muscles, the overlying skin smooths out, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles. This process does not remove wrinkles permanently; rather, it relaxes the muscle so that the wrinkle cannot deepen during facial movements.

Key similarities include:

• Mechanism: Both block nerve signals to relax muscles.
• Duration: Results for both last about 3–4 months on average (sometimes up to 6 months depending on the person).
• Targets: Both treat glabellar lines (between eyebrows), forehead lines, crow’s feet, and other dynamic wrinkles.
• Safety: When done properly, side effects are generally mild (e.g. temporary swelling, bruising).

However, some practical differences exist: Dysport’s smaller molecular size and dilute formulation make it diffuse more widely under the skin. Botox’s formulation (with accessory proteins) tends to stay more localized, allowing very precise treatment of small areas. These differences can influence which agent may be preferable for a given treatment area or patient preference.

Key Differences Between Dysport and Botox

When comparing Dysport vs Botox, the following factors are crucial:

Onset of Results (Speed)

• Dysport: Often acts faster. Many patients see noticeable reduction of lines in 2–3 days, with full effects around 1 week.
• Botox: Typically takes longer to show. Results generally appear in 4–7 days, with full effect around 1–2 weeks.

As one review notes, Dysport “takes effect slightly faster than Botox”. This faster onset can be useful if timing is important (e.g. before an event). On the other hand, Botox’s more gradual onset can result in a subtle progression of effect, which some patients prefer for a natural look. For example, a case comparison shows Dysport-treated wrinkles improving by day 7, whereas Botox-treated areas take around 14+ days to match the same smoothing.

Diffusion and Precision (Spread)

• Dysport: More diffuse spread – it tends to affect a slightly larger area around the injection site. This is due to its lower concentration and smaller protein complex. The wider spread can be an advantage for treating larger areas (e.g. broad forehead wrinkles) with fewer injections. Dysport’s diffusion can produce an overall softer look, and fewer injections may be needed to cover the same area.
• Botox: More targeted precision – stays more localized where injected. This allows very precise contouring of small muscles (e.g. crow’s feet, fine glabellar lines) without affecting adjacent muscles. For applications like crow’s feet, many clinicians prefer Botox’s control.

According to comparisons, Xeomin spreads the least, Botox is intermediate, and Dysport spreads the most. In practical terms, if you need a very precise effect (and have a high concern for localized lines), Botox might be chosen. For a more diffuse effect or larger treatment area, Dysport could be advantageous.

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Duration of Effect (How Long Results Last)

Both Dysport and Botox generally last a similar duration – around 3 to 4 months on average. Some patients report that one or the other seems to last slightly longer, but clinical studies are mixed. For example, one trial sponsored by the Dysport manufacturer found Dysport lasted longer than Botox in some cases, but other trials found no significant difference. In practice, factors like individual metabolism, dosage, and treatment area influence longevity more than product choice.

• Most studies agree both toxins wear off in 3–6 months.
• Some patients may feel Dysport’s effects fade a bit sooner; others notice Botox fading faster.
• The “right” neurotoxin is often the one you tolerate best or gives the look you want at follow-up appointments.

Units and Dosage

A key practical difference is in dosing: Dysport requires more units than Botox to achieve the same effect. This is due to how the manufacturers define a “unit” for each product.

• Conversion ratio: Most clinicians use a rough 2.5–3:1 ratio (Dysport:Botox). In other words, 25–30 units of Dysport ≈ 10 units of Botox. Some practices use 3:1 for simplicity.
• Guidelines: For example, about one official guideline is that 1 unit of Botox is about equal to 3 units of Dysport, though many cite a 2.5:1 ratio. The exact ratio can vary by treatment area, injector preference, and patient. In glabellar lines, Skin Matrx notes “20 units of Botox would be around 60 Dysport units”.
• Clinic prices: Dysport’s per-unit cost is typically lower (roughly $4–$8 per unit) versus Botox ($12–$18 per unit). However, since more units of Dysport are needed, the total treatment cost often ends up similar. For instance, Viva Day Spa quotes Botox at $13.50/unit and Dysport at $4.50/unit, but notes each treatment ends up about the same price due to unit differences. Skin Matrx similarly explains that while Dysport units are cheaper, you “may need more units, so the total cost is often similar”.

Molecular Composition / Formulation

Both are botulinum toxin type A, but the accessory proteins and vial content differ:

• Botox: Contains a larger protein complex around the toxin. Its formulation requires diluting 50 or 100 units per vial. The presence of complexing proteins may contribute to its stability and precision.
• Dysport: The toxin molecules are slightly smaller and the product is more dilute. Dysport vials contain 300 or 500 units (to be mixed with saline), and it is single-use. The different protein makeup makes Dysport diffuse faster, and there is also a small milk protein (lactose) present (relevant for those with allergies).

These compositional differences influence spread, dosing, and potentially side effects (e.g. some patients who develop antibodies may do better with one brand). However, in terms of clinical effect, both achieve wrinkle reduction effectively when dosed properly.

FDA Indications and Medical Uses

• Cosmetic Use: Both are FDA-approved for cosmetic wrinkle reduction (forehead lines, glabellar lines, crow’s feet) in adults.
• Therapeutic Use: Botox has many approved medical uses beyond cosmetics (chronic migraines, hyperhidrosis, muscle spasticity, overactive bladder, etc.). Dysport is also FDA-approved for certain medical uses (cervical dystonia, limb spasticity) but not for migraine or sweating. Dysport may be used off-label for migraines, but Botox is the only one FDA-approved for chronic migraine prophylaxis.
• Masseter/Jaw Treatment: Both are used off-label to slim the jawline (masseter muscle). Many clinicians note Dysport’s wider spread can be beneficial for large muscle areas like the masseter, and it often shows results in 2–3 days for jawline contouring. Botox, with its precise targeting, is also effective in the jaw (often 20–30 units per side).

Pros and Cons of Dysport vs Botox

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each product can help guide decision-making. In general, both are safe and effective, but slight nuances make one more suitable than the other in certain situations:

• Botox Pros:
  • Widely available: Found in almost every med spa or dermatology clinic; very well-known.
  • Proven track record: FDA-approved longer (since 2002) with extensive research and safety data.
  • Precision: Ideal for very small or delicate areas (like around the eyes or precise brow lifts) due to minimal spread.
  • Allergy-friendly for lactose-intolerant: Botox’s formula does not contain the same lactose/milk protein found in Dysport.
• Botox Cons:
  • Slower onset: Takes longer to appear (often up to 10–14 days).
  • May look “frozen”: Some patients feel Botox effects can be more rigid if overused (though expert injection technique can avoid this).
  • Cost per unit: Generally more expensive per unit (around $12–$16).
• Dysport Pros:
  • Faster results: Onset often within 2–3 days, with visible improvement by a week.
  • Natural look: Its diffusion can yield a softer, more natural smoothing in some patients.
  • Ideal for larger areas: Good for broad forehead wrinkles or large muscle groups (like the masseter), since one injection covers more ground.
  • Research-backed: Extensively studied with a strong safety profile.
• Dysport Cons:
  • Requires more units: Need ~2–3 times as many units, though each unit is cheaper.
  • Less availability: Not offered in as many clinics (though this is changing).
  • Spread can be a drawback: The wider diffusion is not ideal for tiny, isolated areas where precision is needed.
  • Allergy caution: Contains a small amount of lactose protein, so patients with dairy allergies should use caution.

Overall, both products share most benefits (wrinkle-smoothing, minimally invasive). The choice often comes down to practitioner experience and specific patient goals. As one medspa summarizes: “Both treatments are the same; subtle nuances differentiate them”.

Dysport vs Botox Cost and Pricing

Units and Pricing: Botox and Dysport are both billed per unit. Costs vary by clinic, location, and promotions, but general patterns exist:

• Botox cost: Typically $12–$16 per unit. On average, a typical treatment (e.g. 20–40 units) may run several hundred dollars. For example, Viva Spa quotes Botox at $13.50/unit.
• Dysport cost: Usually $4–$8 per unit. At the same spa, Dysport is $4.50/unit.

Since Botox units are more potent, you need fewer of them. In practice, a full Dysport treatment can require 2–3× the units of Botox for the same result. Thus:

• Example: If one needs 20 units of Botox to treat frown lines, you might need ~50–60 units of Dysport. 20 Botox units at $13.50 = $270; 60 Dysport units at $4.50 = $270 – essentially the same total cost.

Overall, most clinics find the total treatment cost is comparable. It’s important for patients to understand pricing is based on units consumed: cheaper per-unit does not necessarily mean cheaper overall. Always ask your provider for a cost estimate, which should factor in the area being treated and typical unit usage.

Comparative Chart: Dysport vs Botox

• Onset: Dysport ~2–3 days; Botox ~4–10 days.
• Duration: Both ~3–4 months.
• Units needed: Dysport ~2.5–3× units of Botox.
• Spread: Dysport wider spread; Botox more focal.
• Price/unit: Dysport lower per-unit (around $4–$8); Botox higher (around $12–$16).
• Typical treatment areas: Both treat glabella, forehead, crow’s feet, etc. Dysport often used for large areas (forehead, masseter); Botox often used for small precision areas (brow lift, fine lines).
• FDA uses: Botox also for migraines, sweating, etc.; Dysport also for muscle spasticity but not FDA-approved for migraine.

Dysport vs Botox vs Xeomin

A related question is how these two compare with Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA). All three are Botulinum A toxins. Xeomin is a “naked” neurotoxin (it has no complexing proteins). This purity can reduce the chance of antibody resistance and contains no allergenic proteins. Key points from comparisons:

• Composition: Xeomin contains just the pure toxin, while Botox and Dysport have accessory proteins. For patients with immune issues, Xeomin can be a good option.
• Spread: Xeomin spreads the least under skin (about a dime-size area), Botox a bit more (penny-size), and Dysport the most (quarter-size). So Xeomin requires precise injection, Botox intermediate, Dysport more diffuse.
• Onset: Xeomin and Dysport often show effect slightly faster (2-3 days for Dysport, ~2 days for Xeomin) while Botox is on the slower side (4-5 days on average). However, clinical differences in onset are often subtle and studies vary.
• Units: Xeomin is most similar to Botox in dosing (1 unit Botox ≈ 1 unit Xeomin), whereas Dysport units are always higher.
• Duration: All three last ~3-4 months on average.
• Cost: Xeomin’s pricing is usually between Botox and Dysport. Dysport tends to have lowest per-unit cost but needs more units.

In short, “Botox vs Dysport vs Xeomin” share the same basic effects but differ in their purity and spread. The best choice depends on individual factors (history, preference for pure formulation, budget, etc.) and injector recommendation.

Before & After: Visual Results

Many patients look for “dysport vs botox before after” images to gauge expected outcomes. In practice, the visual difference between Dysport and Botox results is minimal. As Viva Day Spa notes, “the results from both treatments are visually identical” in reducing wrinkles. Both will effectively soften forehead lines, glabellar creases, and crow’s feet.

(All images courtesy of medical sources; real results vary by individual.)

Dysport vs Botox for Masseter and Jawline

A specific use-case is masseter reduction (slimming a square jaw) with neuromodulators. Both Dysport and Botox can slim the jawline by weakening the chewing muscles (masseters). Key points from experts:

• Onset: Dysport often works faster for the masseter – many notice reduced jaw clenching or some slimming within 3–5 days. Botox can take a week or more to see full effect on the jaw.
• Spread: Dysport’s wider diffusion is an advantage for the large masseter muscles. A single injection of Dysport may affect more muscle fibers, leading to a uniform outcome. Botox’s precise spread is still effective but may require more injection sites to cover the same area.
• Units: Both require higher units for large muscles. Clinicians often use ~15–30 units per side for Botox, and triple that for Dysport (≈ 45–90 units per side).
• Results: Both yield jawline slimming and less grinding, with results lasting 3–6 months. Dysport may be preferred if quick improvement is needed; Botox if extreme precision is required. Ultimately, either can be effective.

As one source summarizes, “Dysport and Botox for masseter achieve similar outcomes; Dysport diffuses more for broad coverage, while Botox offers precise control. Results in muscle relaxation and jaw slimming are seen with both, so the choice depends on your anatomy and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are some common questions about Dysport and Botox, answered with current knowledge:

• Q: What is the main difference between Dysport and Botox?
  A: The key differences are in formulation and dosing. Dysport has smaller protein molecules and is more dilute, causing it to spread more widely. Botox is more concentrated and stays more localized. Clinically, Dysport acts a bit faster and requires roughly 2–3× the units of Botox for equivalent effect. However, both deliver similar wrinkle-smoothing results.
• Q: Which lasts longer – Dysport or Botox?
  A: Both last about the same on average: around 3 to 4 months. Some patients report Dysport wears off slightly sooner, others that Botox does. Studies are mixed. Longevity depends more on dosage and individual metabolism than on brand.
• Q: How many units of Dysport equal a unit of Botox?
  A: Generally, about 2.5–3 units of Dysport equal 1 unit of Botox. For practical purposes, many providers use a 3:1 conversion (3 Dysport = 1 Botox). Always consult your injector for the exact conversion in your case.
• Q: Does Dysport work faster than Botox?
  A: Yes, Dysport typically shows effects sooner. Most patients notice Dysport’s effects within 2–3 days, whereas Botox often takes about a week or more to become apparent. Therefore, if you need quicker results, Dysport may be advantageous.
• Q: Is Dysport more expensive than Botox?
  A: Per unit, Dysport is cheaper ($4–$8) than Botox ($12–$16). But because you use more units of Dysport, the total treatment cost is usually similar. Price varies by clinic; always ask for a total cost estimate for the full treatment.
• Q: Which should I choose for forehead wrinkles – Botox or Dysport?
  A: Both work well. Dysport’s spread makes it good for covering a broad forehead with fewer injections, and patients often see it smooth horizontal forehead lines quickly. Botox provides more targeted treatment. Many practitioners will base the choice on their experience and your preference. In practice, most patients are happy with either when dosed correctly.
• Q: What about dysport vs botox pictures and before/after?
  A: Visually, results are very similar. Before/after photos of Dysport or Botox look almost the same: both soften wrinkles and leave a more youthful appearance. There is no distinct “look” unique to one product; it’s the injector’s skill and dosing that create results.
• Q: How do Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport compare?
  A: All three are botulinum A toxins used for wrinkles. Dysport diffuses the most, Xeomin the least (Botox is in between). Xeomin has no added proteins (pure toxin), while Botox and Dysport do. Dysport may work quickest (2–3 days), Xeomin around 2 days, Botox around 4–5 days. They all last ~3–4 months. Choice depends on factors like cost, specific area, and allergy considerations.
• Q: Is there a difference in side effects?
  A: Side effects are very similar (temporary bruising, headache, mild swelling). Dysport’s wider spread might slightly increase risk of affecting nearby muscles (e.g. temporary eyelid droop if injected too close), but in experienced hands both are safe. Serious side effects are rare. Botox’s long safety history is sometimes cited as a pro.

Engaging and Social Sharing

Choosing between Dysport vs Botox can feel complex, but this detailed comparison should clarify the main points. If you found this information helpful, consider sharing it with friends or on social media to help others make an informed choice! We welcome comments and personal experiences below – have you tried Dysport, Botox, or both?

Conclusion: Dysport vs Botox are both excellent wrinkle-relaxing treatments. Dysport acts faster and covers larger areas (ideal for forehead and jaw), while Botox offers precise targeting. Costs end up similar, and clinical outcomes are comparable. To decide which is best for you, consult a qualified cosmetic injector. They can assess your facial anatomy and goals. Whichever you choose, proper treatment can safely deliver a smoother, more youthful look.