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Botox or Dysport: Which Skin Care Treatment Is Best for You?

By TOTAL BODY AESTHETIC  |  October 18, 2023

Author Credit TOTAL BODY AESTHETIC

When it comes to smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, two injectable neurotoxins dominate the conversation: Botox and Dysport. Both are FDA-approved treatments that temporarily relax the muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles, those lines that form from repeated facial expressions like frowning, squinting, and raising your eyebrows. At Total Body Aesthetic in Westchester, Los Angeles, we offer both options and work closely with each patient to determine which treatment will deliver the best results for their unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.

While Botox and Dysport share the same active ingredient, botulinum toxin type A, they are not identical products. Understanding the differences between them can help you make a more informed decision about your treatment and ensure you are getting the most effective solution for your specific concerns.

How Botox Works

Botox, manufactured by Allergan, has been the gold standard in cosmetic neurotoxin treatments for over two decades. It works by blocking nerve signals to the targeted muscles, temporarily preventing them from contracting. This relaxation of the muscle smooths the overlying skin, reducing the appearance of crow's feet, frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines), and horizontal forehead lines.

Botox typically begins to show results within three to five days, with full effects visible by two weeks. Results generally last three to four months, though some patients find that regular treatments over time allow them to go longer between sessions. Botox is also used for medical purposes including migraine relief, excessive sweating, and TMJ-related tension.

How Dysport Differs

Dysport, manufactured by Galderma, uses the same type of botulinum toxin but in a slightly different formulation. The key difference is that Dysport molecules are smaller, which allows the product to spread more easily across a larger treatment area. This characteristic makes Dysport particularly effective for treating broader areas like the forehead, where a natural, even result is desired.

Many patients report that Dysport kicks in slightly faster than Botox, with some noticing visible smoothing within 24 to 48 hours. Dysport also tends to have a softer, more diffused effect, which can create a very natural-looking result that avoids the frozen appearance some patients worry about. The longevity of Dysport results is comparable to Botox, typically lasting three to four months.

Choosing Between Botox and Dysport

The best neurotoxin for you depends on several factors, including the area being treated, your skin type, muscle strength, and personal preferences. At Total Body Aesthetic, our experienced injectors evaluate your facial structure and movement patterns during your consultation to recommend the optimal product. Some patients respond better to one product over the other, and we encourage those new to neurotoxins to try both over successive treatments to compare their personal experience.

For precise, targeted areas like crow's feet or the muscles around the mouth, Botox's more localized effect may be preferred. For broader areas like the forehead or for patients who want a very natural, subtly softened look, Dysport's diffusion properties can be advantageous. Many of our patients in Playa Vista, Marina del Rey, and Culver City ultimately develop a preference based on their individual results.

What to Expect During Treatment

Both Botox and Dysport treatments are quick, typically taking 15 to 20 minutes. A series of small injections are administered using an ultra-fine needle, and most patients describe the sensation as a minor pinch. No anesthesia is required, though we can apply a topical numbing cream for patients who are particularly sensitive. There is no downtime after treatment, and you can return to your normal activities immediately.

We advise patients to avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area for 24 hours and to stay upright for at least four hours after treatment to prevent the product from migrating to unintended areas. Mild redness or swelling at the injection sites is normal and typically resolves within a few hours.

Combining Neurotoxins with Other Treatments

At Total Body Aesthetic, we often recommend pairing neurotoxin treatments with complementary services for a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan. Dermal fillers can restore lost volume in the cheeks, lips, and under-eye area, while treatments like Emface or Morpheus8 can address skin laxity and texture. This multi-modality approach addresses aging from multiple angles, delivering more complete and natural-looking results.

Why Choose Total Body Aesthetic for Neurotoxins

Our team at Total Body Aesthetic in Westchester, Los Angeles brings years of specialized training and artistic precision to every neurotoxin treatment. We serve patients throughout the 90045 zip code and surrounding communities including Playa Vista, Marina del Rey, El Segundo, Culver City, and the South Bay. Whether you choose Botox or Dysport, you can trust that your treatment will be administered with meticulous attention to natural facial proportions and your individual aesthetic vision.