Patients ask us all the time: Which is better—Dysport or Botox?
If your goal is to smooth out frown lines, soften crow’s feet or prevent new wrinkles from forming, both treatments are excellent options. Botox and Dysport are FDA-approved neuromodulators that work in similar ways, but they differ slightly in how they’re formulated, how fast they take effect and how they’re used in real-life aesthetic care.
At Resurrect Skin MD, we’ve worked extensively with both. We don’t just administer these treatments—we use them ourselves and evaluate them daily in practice. Dr. Burns often recommends Dysport over Botox for reasons you’ll see below, but the right choice depends on you: your features, goals, preferences and lifestyle. Let’s walk through the differences so you can feel informed before your next visit.
What Is Botox?
Botox is the brand name for onabotulinumtoxinA, a purified protein that temporarily relaxes the small muscles responsible for repeated expressions like frowning, squinting or raising your eyebrows. It works by interrupting the nerve signals that tell those muscles to contract. This softens the appearance of dynamic wrinkles—the ones that deepen over time with habitual movement.
Botox is most commonly used to treat:
- Frown lines (between the eyebrows)
- Horizontal forehead lines
- Crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes
Results from Botox typically appear within three to seven days and last around three to four months.
What Is Dysport?
Dysport is another injectable neuromodulator made from botulinum toxin type A (abobotulinumtoxinA). Like Botox, it relaxes facial muscles to minimize the appearance of visible wrinkles. However, Dysport has a different formulation that affects how it spreads under the skin and how quickly results appear.
Dysport is especially effective for treating:
- Moderate to severe glabellar lines (frown lines)
- Larger areas like the forehead
- Patients seeking faster onset
Most people begin to see results within two to three days of a Dysport treatment. These results typically last around three to four months, and sometimes longer, depending on the individual patient.
What Are the Key Differences Between Dysport and Botox?
While Dysport and Botox are both trusted solutions for smoothing dynamic wrinkles, they aren’t identical in how they work or how they’re used. Subtle differences in formulation, spread, onset time and dosing can influence which option is better suited for your features and goals. At Resurrect Skin MD, we take these differences seriously because even small factors can make a big impact on your results.
Treatment Focus
Both Botox and Dysport are designed to treat dynamic wrinkles, but they differ in how they spread and interact with the tissue beneath the skin. Dysport diffuses more easily, making it an excellent choice for larger areas where a soft, feathered effect is preferred.
Botox, on the other hand, remains more localized, allowing for greater precision in smaller treatment zones or patients concerned about product spread. At Resurrect Skin MD, we carefully assess your facial structure and muscle movement to determine which option will deliver the most natural and balanced result.
Speed of Results
Dysport generally takes effect faster than Botox, with noticeable improvements often appearing within two to three days. In contrast, Botox typically takes about three to seven days for full results to develop. This quicker onset makes Dysport an appealing option for patients preparing for an upcoming event or those who simply want to see their glow-up sooner.
Dosage and Units
The unit measurements of Dysport and Botox are not interchangeable, which can be confusing at first glance. Dysport typically requires more units than Botox to achieve a similar effect, but this doesn’t mean it’s less effective.
The difference lies in how each product is formulated and measured. Dysport is more diluted than Botox. Many people think of one unit of Botox as roughly equivalent to three units of Dysport. At Resurrect Skin MD, dosing is always based on your individual goals and needs, not just the number of vials.
Sensation and Comfort
Most patients find both treatments tolerable, but some say Dysport injections feel slightly smoother during application. There’s no major difference in discomfort or side effects when administered by an experienced provider.
Longevity of Results
In most cases, results from both Dysport and Botox last three to four months. That said, some patients find that Dysport lasts longer in certain areas, particularly the glabella (the area between the eyebrows). Others may respond better to Botox based on their muscle tone or metabolic rate.
Dr. Burns and our team maintain detailed records of your response to each product, allowing us to fine-tune your treatment plan over time. We never take a one-size-fits-all approach. We tailor every recommendation to your goals, expressions and experiences.
Who Should Consider Dysport?
Dysport may be the better choice if you:
- Want faster results with little waiting time
- Prefer a softer, more blended finish—especially on large treatment areas
- Are new to injectables and want a gentler introduction to neuromodulators
- Have previously used Botox and found the results wore off too quickly
Who Might Benefit More from Botox?
Botox may be ideal for:
- Small, precise treatment areas like brow lifts or perioral lines
- Patients with a long history of using Botox and consistent results
- Individuals concerned about product spread or diffusion
Can You Switch Between Botox and Dysport?
Many patients switch between the two based on how their body responds, or how their skin and goals evolve. If you’ve been using Botox and feel like your results are plateauing, trying Dysport could offer a fresh and effective change. During your consultation, your injector will review your full treatment history and recommend the best option moving forward.
Your Personalized Plan Starts at Resurrect Skin MD
At Resurrect Skin MD, you’re not just getting wrinkle reduction—you’re getting a comprehensive, personalized experience. Dr. Burns and our expert team bring a deep understanding of facial anatomy, injectables and skin health to every consultation. Whether you choose Dysport or Botox, your treatment will be precisely tailored to deliver smooth, natural results.
Call Resurrect Skin MD at 219-754-6865 or schedule your consultation online. Let’s create a plan that brings your skin—and your confidence—to life.
