When it comes to reducing fine lines and wrinkles, two names likely come to mind first: Dysport® and BOTOX®. These popular neuromodulators are both FDA-approved and widely used to smooth expression lines and deliver a more youthful, refreshed appearance with little to no downtime. They’re especially sought after for nonsurgical facial rejuvenation, offering consistent, subtle results in a short amount of time.

But while they have similar goals, they aren’t identical. Each treatment has its advantages, depending on your goals, facial anatomy, treatment areas and desired timeline.

How do you choose between the two? Let’s break down the key differences and help you decide which option might fit your aesthetic goals best.

What Are Neuromodulators?

Neuromodulators are injectable treatments that temporarily relax targeted muscles to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dynamic wrinkles. They work by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract, smoothing out the skin above.

The most commonly treated areas include:

• Forehead lines
• Frown lines (also called “11s”)
• Crow’s feet around the eyes
• Bunny lines on the nose
• Chin dimpling
• Neck bands

Both Dysport® and BOTOX® are formulated with botulinum toxin type A, the active ingredient responsible for the muscle-relaxing effects. However, they differ in formulation, onset and diffusion.

What Is BOTOX®?

BOTOX® is an injectable neuromodulator made from a purified form of botulinum toxin type A. It temporarily blocks nerve signals to specific muscles, preventing them from contracting. 

BOTOX® is manufactured by Allergan and has been FDA-approved for both medical and cosmetic use. It's one of the most widely recognized and studied products in aesthetic medicine, with precise dosing and formulation that allow providers to accurately target facial muscles. 

What Is Dysport®?

Dysport® is an injectable neuromodulator composed of abobotulinumtoxinA, a type of botulinum toxin type A. It temporarily interrupts the communication between nerves and muscles to reduce muscle activity.

Manufactured by Ipsen, Dysport® is FDA-approved for cosmetic and therapeutic use. It has a slightly different protein structure and diffusion pattern than other neuromodulators, which can influence how it spreads and how many units are used during treatment.

Dysport® vs. Botox®: The Key Differences

When choosing between Dysport® and BOTOX®, it helps to understand how they differ in terms of performance, formulation and application. Here’s a breakdown of the core distinctions:

FDA Approval

BOTOX® was FDA-approved for cosmetic use in 2002. Dysport® received cosmetic FDA approval in 2009. Both are FDA-cleared for smoothing dynamic wrinkles, and they have a long-standing safety and effectiveness track record.

Onset

Dysport® typically begins working in one to three days. BOTOX® usually starts to show effects within three to five days. If you're on a tighter timeline for an event or want quicker results, Dysport may be a better fit.

Full Results

Dysport® reaches peak effect in about a week. BOTOX® takes around 10 to 14 days for full results to develop. Both treatments offer a gradual transformation, but Dysport often delivers noticeable changes sooner.

Duration

Both treatments last approximately three months, depending on individual metabolism, muscle activity and treatment area. Some patients report slightly longer-lasting results with one over the other, but overall longevity is comparable.

Ideal Uses

Dysport® is often chosen for larger treatment areas like the forehead due to its broader spread. BOTOX® is preferred for smaller, more precise areas like crow’s feet and frown lines. Your provider may recommend one over the other based on the size and sensitivity of your treatment zones.

Spread

Dysport® diffuses more easily, which can be advantageous for covering wide areas with fewer injections. BOTOX® is more localized, offering precise muscle targeting when needed. This makes Dysport ideal for soft, blended results and BOTOX ideal for crisp, defined effects.

Unit Measurement

Dysport® and BOTOX® units are not interchangeable. Dysport requires more units to achieve the same effect, but this doesn’t make it less effective. We will calculate pricing and dosage accordingly.

Which One Is Right for You?

The best choice between Dysport® and BOTOX® ultimately depends on your facial anatomy, aesthetic goals and personal preferences. We will assess muscle movement, skin condition and past treatment history to guide the decision, but here’s a general breakdown to help you think it through:

You May Prefer Dysport® If:

• You want faster results—ideal if you have an event coming up soon
• You’re treating a broader area, like the full forehead
• You’ve found BOTOX® results too rigid and want a more natural, blended appearance

You May Prefer BOTOX® If:

• You’re focused on small, targeted zones, such as the glabella (“11s”) or crow’s feet
• You’ve used BOTOX® before and had consistent, satisfying results
• You want precise control over muscle movement in very specific areas

Whether you choose, working with a skilled injector ensures your treatment is tailored to your unique features and desired outcome.

Can You Switch Between the Two?

You can switch between Dysport® and BOTOX®, and many patients do. Some people start with one and later try the other to compare how each performs regarding onset, feel and longevity. Others may alternate between the two based on product availability, appointment timing or cost.

Switching between neuromodulators is safe, and no clinical evidence suggests it leads to reduced effectiveness, increased side effects or long-term issues. Trying both under professional guidance can help you and your provider determine which formulation best suits your muscle structure and personal preferences.

Pick the Right Neuromodulator for You with Us in Miami, FL

While Dysport® and BOTOX® share the same goal—softening lines and enhancing your natural look—the subtle differences can impact your overall results. From onset time to diffusion and precision, the right choice comes down to what works best for your face, goals, and lifestyle.

At Simple Aesthetics in Miami, FL, we take a personalized approach to every treatment, focusing on facial balance, subtle enhancements, and results that feel like you, just refreshed. Whether you’re new to neuromodulators or exploring a switch, we’re here to help you make an informed decision. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find the right option.