Botox® Dysport®, Xeomin®: Is there a difference?
For starters, they all fall under the umbrella of neuromodulators.
So, you may ask…what is a neuromodulator?
A neuromodulator is a tiny protein that blocks communication between nerve and muscle cells—resulting in muscles not being able to move.
On the face, the contraction of the muscles causes most wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes, used for smiling and frowning. Reduce the movement of these muscles and you can remove the signs of wrinkles!
Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin each contain a neuromodulator called Botulinum toxin type A.
You may be wondering if this is the same protein that causes the condition of botulism, which is dangerous to humans. The answer is yes, however, the active ingredient is purified from the source, leaving us with injectables that are completely safe and highly effective. It works by relaxing muscles through a mild weakening effect.
Each brand will claim they are the most effective in reducing wrinkles, so let’s take a look at each one.
Botox: The OG
Botox is the brand name of an injectable produced by Allergan Inc. It’s the first and most popular of the three brands. Botox was FDA-approved in 2002 for the treatment of forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and fine lines on the face. The FDA has approved other uses to include migraines, excessive sweating, and more…
Dysport: The Middle Child
Botox was first to market in the US and produces the same results, but Dysport has been in Europe since the late 90s and became FDA-approved in 2009. In addition to Botulinum Type A, Dysport contains other inhibitors and muscular blocking agents to improve its effectiveness. All are safe ingredients that combine to treat wrinkles.
Xeomin: The New Kid
Xeomin came was FDA-approved in 2011. While these three brands have the same active ingredient, the difference lies in their molecular makeup. The formulation of Xeomin is slightly different than Botox and Dysport as it doesn’t contain any additives or require refrigeration. Xeomin also offers an advantage for persons with skin sensitivities with fewer proteins to interact with the body.
Dosage Differences
Units Required: Dysport Vs Botox Vs Xeomin
A great example is when treating the Glabella area (the area between the eyes where the notorious “11’s” can form), each injectable would require, on average:
Dysport: up to 50 units
Botox®: 20 units
Xeomin: 20 units
The Results
A key difference between Dysport, Botox®, and Xeomin is the onset of results. To compare, the onset of the results for each injectable would be:
Dysport: 24 hours
Botox®: 72 hours
Xeomin: 4 days
The onset of results just means when you will start to see the results, for all three, full results will be seen in a week or two and all three produce results that last about the same amount of time.
The Effect Lifestyle Practice team of medical professionals takes the time to get to know our patients and their aesthetic goals. If you want to learn more about Botox, or Xeomin injections or any other medical aesthetic procedure we offer, call us at (904) 518-3721 for a complimentary consultation.
