What are the differences between Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin?
Most people have heard of BOTOX. It’s a household word in almost every American home, and has even become an adjective (“She’s definitely Botoxed”). However, many people haven’t heard of the two other wrinkle relaxers. Once in the exam chair patients are often surprised by the question “Botox, Xeomin or Dysport?”. An experienced injector can answer any question about the three, but a little pre-appointment research is always helpful! Here is a quick summary of the similarities and differences between the three wrinkle relaxers on the market today.
Similarities:
All three are neuromodulators that contain a substance called Botulinum Toxin A. This is a toxin produced by the bacteria clostridium botulinum. Although this toxin naturally occurs as a poison, scientists have long realized that when used in small quantities in the face, it magically erases lines and wrinkles, smoothing and reversing the signs of aging. But if all three of these brands contain the same toxin, what makes them different?
Differences:
BOTOX is the first and “original” neurotoxin, manufactured by Allergan Pharmaceuticals. It has supreme name recognition and a stellar reputation, and very often is used as the slang name for all these types of muscle relaxers— “I’m getting Botox!” The molecule particle itself is encased in a protective protein structure that makes it much larger than Xeomin. This can give it more longevity; and that longevity combined with the widespread name recognition makes Botox slightly more expensive than the other neuromodulators.
XEOMIN produced by the Merz company, sports the smallest molecule among its competitors. The company therefore has marketed it as the “purest” of all three or the “naked” molecule. Because of the purity of the molecule, patients might not become resistant to Xeomin as easily. Xeomin is the only botulinum toxin that doesn’t need to be refrigerated, making transport and overall cost less expensive and thereby lowering retail price.
DYSPORT is manufactured by Galderma. It is dosed a little differently and you might notice that the cost appears to be dramatically lower than Botox and Xeomin. Dysport is manufactured at about 1/3 the potency of the other neuromodulators, so it requires 3 times the amount for the same effect that the others have. So the cost ends up being about the same. Dysport might work the fastest, and you might notice an effect as early as 24 hours, so it may be the choice for those who want faster results. It will also spread into a wider area, so placement is slightly broader than the others.
Bottom Line:
Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport are three versions of the same Botulinum A toxin that is a wrinkle relaxer for the face. While there might be slight differences, the overall result in all three will be almost identical. All three are great products that will help to soften, conceal, and prevent the formation of wrinkles. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss which wrinkle relaxer is right for you, call today to set up a free, no-pressure consultation!
About the Author: Dr. James M. Yun, MD is the medical director at MeiRai Medical Aesthetics. Dr. Yun received his training in otolaryngology, head and neck surgery from the University of Florida and moved to Roseburg, Oregon in 2006. Facial Aesthetics has always been an interest of his and he enjoys using his knowledge of facial plastic surgery and aesthetics to customize treatment plans that give his patients beautiful, natural looking results.
