Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport

For people in the DMV area who want to tackle their facial wrinkles with neurotoxin injections, the treatment options are Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport. But what’s the difference between these three contenders in the aesthetics world? Here, we will break down the similarities between these three popular brands as well as any differences among them.

First, it helps to understand how Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport work.

Smiling, squinting, and frowning are expressions we make every single day. But as we age, these expressions eventually result in permanent wrinkles. When neurotoxins, such as Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport, are injected into the muscles that cause repeated facial expressions, they temporarily block nerve impulses, causing the muscles to relax. The result is a temporary reduction or even elimination of lines and wrinkles, providing a more youthful appearance. You’ve most likely heard of Botox before. It’s the first injectable neurotoxin approved by the FDA in 2002 to treat facial wrinkles. Dysport came along next with its FDA approval in 2009, followed by Xeomin in 2011.

How do Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport compare?

All three brands are derived from the same substance of botulinum toxin A and are very effective at reducing wrinkles around the eyes (crow’s feet), forehead creases, and glabellar lines between the eyebrows. Each can be used safely on all adult skin types and complexions. Furthermore, they can also be used to treat profuse sweating under the arms and involuntary twitching of the muscles around the eyes. All three wrinkle relaxers last from 3-6 months, depending on each individual patient. Now that you’re versed on the similarities, it’s time to talk about a few notable differences between each of these brands.

What are the differences between Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport?

While all three toxins can create noticeable transformations in patients by carrying out similar functions, there are a few differences between each of them. The main difference between Xeomin, Botox, and Dysport lies in their formulation. Xeomin, for instance, contains only one ingredient – botulinum toxin A. It is uniquely purified and does not contain any additives. A benefit of this purified injectable is that the body is less likely to become resistant to it. There are some patients, however, who have developed antibodies to Botox and Dysport, though this is fairly uncommon. The number of units used for best results averages 20 units of Xeomin or Botox per visit and 40 units of Dysport. Each neurotoxin diffuses differently, partially because Botox and Dysport contain protective proteins that are clustered around the active part of the molecule. Dysport contains a lesser version of this protein compared to Botox. Xeomin, on the other hand, has no protective proteins. Yet it should be noted that Botox and Dysport are not necessarily interchangeable because they’re both dosed and injected differently.

Which Work Faster?

The manufacturer of Dysport states that results can be seen in two to three days. The Xeomin manufacturer reports that it takes an average of three to four days for the initial effects to become noticeable, and up to one month to see the product’s full effects. Botox’s manufacturer asserts that you may begin to notice results in 24 to 48 hours. Research suggests that Dysport typically provides the fastest results, followed by Botox and then Xeomin, though all are roughly in the same ballpark as far as timelines. All three provide the same wrinkle-smoothing benefits, which last for approximately three to four months for the average patient. Some patients even report enjoying results up to six months after their injections.

Which neurotoxin is best for you – Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin?

At Moksha Aesthetics in Potomac, Maryland, we offer each of these popular neurotoxins available on the market today. We’d be happy to help you select the one that’s right for you. Simply schedule a consultation with us to learn more about the subtle differences and let us help guide you on your anti-aging journey. Call us at (240) 907-5009 today.