Anyone interested in wrinkle reduction today has many options, from prescription creams and serums, to laser resurfacing and chemical peels, and even surgery when all else fails. However, according to the latest report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, neuromodulators like Dysport and Botox remain the most popular.
These two injectables offer quick and long-lasting wrinkle reduction like no other. Dysport and Botox are relatively painless, have a proven safety record and require no downtime. But is one better than the other?
Dysport and Botox: The Basics
Dysport and Botox are brand names of prescription injectables containing botulinum toxin as the active ingredient. This potent neurotoxin works by blocking nerve signals in facial muscles that contribute to wrinkles. Over the following days and weeks, as these muscles begin to “relax,” the overlying skin smooths out, and wrinkles become less noticeable.
While Dysport and Botox have the same active ingredient, the formulations are slightly different. Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA or ABO) contains less protein with lactose, while Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA or ONA) has a higher concentration of protein with sodium chloride. These additional ingredients serve as stabilizers but also make the products work slightly differently.
Botox is the first wrinkle relaxer of its kind. It was approved by the FDA in 2002. The product is manufactured and distributed by Allergan, an American company. Dysport was approved years later in 2009 and was originally developed by Ipsen, a French company. Though both have cosmetic and medical uses, Botox has a wider range of applications than Dysport.
The Pros and Cons of Each Treatment
Like any cosmetic treatment, Dysport and Botox have pros as well as cons. Knowing about these differences helps you make an informed decision about the best course of treatment.
Dysport
With its diluted and unique formula, Dysport offers slightly different wrinkle reduction than that offered by Botox. Its areas of application are also different.
Pros
- FDA-approved for the treatment of glabellar lines, which are vertical lines between the eyebrows.
- Results may be visible sooner than with Botox, typically within two to four days.
- Results may last longer in some patients than with Botox.
- Costs slightly less than Botox, about $400 on average per session.
Cons
- Only approved by the FDA for the treatment of glabellar lines. It is considered off-label use to treat any other wrinkles across the face.
- The diluted formula causes Dysport to diffuse easily within the skin, making it unsuitable for certain wrinkles or areas.
- Because it can contain traces of milk protein, Dysport is not safe for anyone with a milk protein allergy.
Botox
Botox is the original wrinkle relaxer with decades of research to back up its safety and efficiency. It is a versatile injectable with uses on different areas of the face, as well as applications for treating many medical conditions.
Pros
- The first FDA-approved treatment of its kind for the correction of facial wrinkles.
- FDA-approved for the correction of glabellar lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet.
- Additionally, Botox has received FDA approval for the treatment of platysma bands, aka neck bands.
- Well-tolerated by most patients and boasts a proven safety record.
- Suitable for those with milk protein allergies.
Cons
- Patients may need to wait from one week and up to a month for the final results to become noticeable.
- Botox may wear off sooner than Dysport in some patients, which means more frequent visits to the injector’s office.
- May cost slightly more per session than other similar treatments, with average costs being $300 to $600 per session.
What Does the Science Say About the Differences Between Botox and Dysport?
Studies comparing Botox and Dysport often show the latter to be more cost-effective and to last longer. However, many of these studies were sponsored by the company behind Dysport. So it’s important to take these findings with a grain of salt.
A 2018 study published in the journal Toxins, for example, found that greater amounts of the active ingredient are injected with Dysport, explaining the longer duration of the results. However, this study was led by employees of Ipsen Pharma. Similar findings were published years prior in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, also by a study sponsored by the manufacturers of Dysport.
So, Which Is Better: Dysport or Botox?
In short, both products have their equal share of pros and cons.
Botox and Dysport are different brands and formulations of neuromodulators, injectables containing a purified form of botulinum toxin. While the formulations differ, they both work by temporarily relaxing facial muscles responsible for wrinkles between the brows, across the forehead and around the eyes.
However, Dysport is approved for the treatment of only one type of line and is not suitable for patients with milk protein allergies. Botox may be slightly more expensive, it may take longer for the results to show, and the duration of your results can be slightly shorter than with Dysport. However, Botox is FDA-approved to treat wrinkles in the entire upper face. In addition, Botox is an “oldie but goldie” wrinkle relaxer. It has many years of research to back up its claims of safety and efficiency.
Choosing the Right Injectable Treatment at Lucienne Salon & Medical Spa
Have trouble deciding which injectable treatment is right for you? Contact Lucienne Salon & Medical Spa today for a free consultation. Our providers will be more than happy to help you choose the best option for your unique needs and concerns. We will also explain the benefits of each and the steps and costs of your proposed treatment.
So, if you are ready for your wrinkle reduction treatment, don’t wait any longer to experience a refreshed and rejuvenated you. Call our office today at (801) 280-9990 or click here to schedule your appointment.