Both Botox® in San Diego and Dysport® use botulinum toxin type-A (BoNT-A aka ‘botox’) for skin rejuvenation, but they differ in notable ways. Read on to learn all about their differences.

When you request a popular and successful non-invasive treatment that uses neuromodulators to help relax dynamic lines on your face, your aesthetic nurse will recommend one of several available FDA-approved brands. Two of those brands are Botox® and Dysport®.

What are the differences between these two brands, and what should you keep in mind when deciding which formulation to choose?

1. What Are Botox® and Dysport®?

BoNT-A injectables block your neurotransmitters (the molecules that send messages to and from your brain via your nervous system), causing your muscles to relax and the dynamic lines in your face to soften. By dynamic lines, we mean the folds visible when you move your face—while frowning or laughing, for example. Over time, these lines can become pronounced, yielding an aged appearance.

In moderate to severe cases, the FDA has approved neuromodulator use to minimize these lines temporarily, leaving your skin smooth and your appearance more youthful. With both brands, after applying a mild anesthetic to your face, your nurse will inject small amounts in the target areas several times. The amount in use and the number of applications will depend on the condition of your skin and your desired outcome. The procedure is usually pain-free.

Downtime is minimal to none, with very few mild and temporary side-effects, such as slight pain at the site or numbness and headaches. The effects of your neuromodulator treatment should last from two to three months. However, as everyone metabolizes the injectable at different rates, the longevity will differ from patient to patient.

Botox® has had FDA approval for cosmetic use for several decades, and Dysport® has maintained approval since 2009. The medical profession uses both brands to relieve multiple muscle-related conditions, including cross-eyes, migraines, bruxism, and upper and lower limb spasticity.

Related post: Botox Treatment for Migraine Pain Relief

2. What Are the Differences Between Botox® and Dysport®?

While the brands’ main injectable ingredient is similar, as are their application and effects, they do differ slightly in several ways:

• Composition and potency: Variance in trace protein volume impacts potency. Botox® is more concentrated and suitable for deeper lines in targeted, localized sites; the more diluted Dysport® contains smaller protein molecules and is more diffuse, treating larger areas efficiently with fewer injections. To illustrate the difference in concentration, you need three units of Dysport® to match the effect of one unit of Botox®.
• Immediacy of effect: While the relaxing effect of Dysport® is evident sooner after treatment–usually within a few days, the full impact of Botox® can take up to two weeks to materialize. In both cases, the effect lasts for three to four months.
• Treatment cost: Although the price for Botox® in San Diego and Dysport® is similar, the fee per session will depend somewhat on your region, at which center you’re receiving the treatment, and which professional is administering it. The final price also depends on your skin condition, the results that you require, and the extent and number of injections used.

The area and depth of the treatment that your professional anticipates may dictate which brand or brands you select. Your aesthetic nurse will assess your need, and should you qualify, help you make a final decision.

3. About The Laser Café

We offer safe, FDA-approved, medical-grade skin smoothing and revival treatments, including Botox® in San Diego and Dysport® injectables, in our friendly, laid-back, and comfortable spa. If you’re ready to wave goodbye to those folds for now and hello to a smoother, more glowing appearance, then contact us today for your consultation.

4. Testimonial from Gabriela, Satisfied Client

Very professional and friendly staff, the front desk makes you feel welcome and the nurses make you feel comfortable when doing procedures I would definitely recommend!