What Are Botox and Dysport?
If you’re considering neurotoxin injections to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, you’ve likely come across two popular options: Botox and Dysport. Both are FDA-approved injectable treatments that temporarily relax the muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles, but they have some key differences worth understanding before your appointment.
At Rella Aesthetics in Vacaville and Napa, CA, we offer both Botox and Dysport because we believe in tailoring every treatment to the individual. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.
How Do They Work?
Both Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) are derived from botulinum toxin type A. They work by temporarily blocking nerve signals to targeted muscles, preventing them from contracting and forming wrinkles. The result is smoother, more youthful-looking skin without surgery or downtime.
Key Differences Between Botox and Dysport
Onset Time
One of the most notable differences is how quickly you’ll see results. Dysport tends to work faster, with many patients noticing visible improvement within 2 to 5 days. Botox typically takes 4 to 7 days to show initial results, with full effects visible by 2 weeks.
Spread and Diffusion
Dysport has a thinner formulation that spreads more easily across a treatment area. This makes it an excellent choice for larger areas like the forehead, where you want a smooth, natural look without multiple injection points. Botox stays more concentrated at the injection site, making it ideal for precise treatments in smaller areas like crow’s feet or the lines between your brows.
Unit Equivalency
Botox and Dysport are measured differently. Roughly speaking, 1 unit of Botox equals about 2.5 to 3 units of Dysport. This doesn’t mean Dysport costs more — the pricing per unit is lower to account for the difference in dosing.
Duration of Results
Both treatments typically last 3 to 4 months, though individual results vary based on factors like metabolism, muscle strength, and dosage. Some patients report that Dysport lasts slightly longer in certain areas, while others prefer the longevity of Botox. Your injector at Rella Aesthetics will help optimize your treatment plan for the best duration.
Which One Is Right for You?
There’s no universal answer — the best choice depends on your treatment goals, the area being treated, and your individual response to each product. Here are some general guidelines:
- Choose Botox if you want precise treatment for smaller areas like crow’s feet, frown lines, or a lip flip
- Choose Dysport if you’re treating a larger area like the forehead and want faster results
- Not sure? Many of our patients have tried both and developed a preference. We offer free consultations to help you decide
What to Expect During Treatment
Whether you choose Botox or Dysport, the treatment experience at Rella Aesthetics is virtually the same. Appointments take about 5 to 10 minutes, with no downtime required. Our expert injectors use the smallest commercially available needles to minimize discomfort, and many patients describe the sensation as a brief, mild pinch.
After your treatment, avoid rubbing the treated area, skip exercise for 12 hours, and avoid lying face-down for at least 4 hours. We’ll provide you with complete post-care instructions at your appointment.
Why Choose Rella Aesthetics for Your Injections?
At Rella Aesthetics, every injection is performed by an expert injector under the supervision of Dr. Zachary Wagner, a family medicine residency-trained physician and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. Our team has amassed thousands of hours of specialized training in facial aesthetics, and we’re committed to delivering natural-looking results that enhance your unique features.
We also offer free touch-up treatments within 2 weeks of your initial appointment — up to 6 units at no extra charge — because we want you to love your results.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re leaning toward Botox, Dysport, or still deciding, we’re here to help. Schedule a free consultation at our Vacaville or Napa location and let our team create a personalized treatment plan for you.
You can also host a Tox Party and bring the experience to the comfort of your own home with friends.