What are Botox and Dysport?

What’s the difference between Botox (onabotulinum) and Dysport (abobotulinum)? These are medicines called “neuromodulators”. They are both used for smoothing wrinkles and sometimes lifting or changing how our facial muscles move. They are both FDA approved for cosmetic use and are both name brands that are in competition with each other. Both have been used for decades worldwide. Botox was FDA approved 20 years ago and Dysport was FDA approved 13 years ago, so we trust both. I have found that currently these are the two most effective types of neuromodulators offered in the US. Many clients find that they have a slightly different experience with one versus the other. For example, one of them may give you a headache as it’s kicking in. One may last longer than the other for you. One may give you a stronger result than the other. It is perfectly fine to try both to see which you prefer, because it will be different for everyone. There are no reliable ways to predict which will be better for you. As with much of what we do in aesthetics, it’s OK and encouraged to try something new!

Have a great day!

-Dr. Bessie