The realization we’re aging dawns on most people in our late 20s or early 30s, when we notice our first wrinkles. These are called dynamic wrinkles, and they form in the upper facial area due to the activity of muscles that make us squint, frown, smile, or raise our eyebrows in surprise.
Fortunately, there are several solutions available for dynamic wrinkles. The most effective is a cosmetic treatment that involves injecting a neurotoxin into the muscles responsible for creating wrinkles. The most popular neurotoxin injectables include Botox, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Dysport.
This article explains what Dysport is, how it helps smooth out dynamic wrinkles, and how long you can enjoy the rejuvenating effects of the treatment.
What Is Dysport?
Dysport is a neurotoxin injectable that contains the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, the source of the neurotoxin also used in the widely known Botox injectables.
Dysport is typically used for moderate to severe wrinkles. When injected into the target muscle, Dysport smooths out the overlying skin, reduces or eliminates wrinkles in that area, and gives the patient a more refreshed, younger appearance.
Note: Learn about the differences between Dysport and Xeomin.
How Does It Work?
The botulinum toxin in Dysport blocks nerve signals going from the brain to the target muscle, telling it to contract. The effects of Dysport are temporary and last up to six months. During that time, the muscle in the treated area is relaxed, and the overlying skin appears visibly smoother.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
FDA-Approved: Glabellar (Frown) Lines
Dysport is primarily used to treat glabellar lines – the vertical lines above the nose and between the eyebrows that contribute to a frowned or worried look. The FDA approved Dysport as a cosmetic treatment for glabellar lines in 2009.
Off-Label Use: Crow’s Feet and Forehead Wrinkles
Many cosmetic practitioners also use Dysport as an off-label treatment for crow’s feet (lines in the corners of the eyes) and forehead wrinkles (parallel lines across the forehead).
Who Is a Good Candidate for The Treatment?
Most healthy adults with moderate to severe dynamic wrinkles can benefit from a Dysport treatment.
Avoid the treatment if you are pregnant, nursing, or have any of the following conditions:
- Allergies to any of Dysport’s components
- Muscle or nerve disorders (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)
- Weak facial muscles
- Skin infection
- Scars
- Heart problems
- Bleeding issues
Tell your doctor if you’ve had surgery or another botulinum toxin treatment in the previous four months and if you are taking any medications or supplements.
How to Prepare for The Treatment
Your chosen medical provider will explain how to prepare for the treatment during your consultation. The preparation involves discontinuing your current medical therapy and supplements, including:
- Blood-thinning medication
- Sleep medication
- Muscle relaxants
- Allergy medication
- Cold medication
- NSAIDs
- Fish oil
- Vitamin E
- Ginkgo Biloba
It is also advisable to avoid drinking alcohol a few days before the treatment.
The Procedure
Your chosen medical provider first disinfects your skin in the treatment area with rubbing alcohol and applies a topical anesthetic if you have a low tolerance to pain. The medical provider then injects the required number of Dysport units into the target muscle and applies a cold compress to minimize the chance of redness and swelling.
The injection process takes several minutes, and the whole treatment, including preparation and waiting for the numbing cream to take effect, lasts about half an hour.
The Results
The skin is visibly smoother two or three days after the Dysport treatment, and it takes about one week for the full results to kick in.
Dysport effects last up to six months.
Note: For more information about the results, read our article and find out how long does it take for Dysport to work.
Risks and Side Effects
The FDA approved Dysport as a safe cosmetic treatment for glabellar lines. However, it’s important to undergo the procedure at a reputable institution, with a licensed and experienced medical provider. That way the chances of unwanted side effects are reduced.
Typical side effects are mild and include:
- Headache
- Pain around the injection site
- Redness
- Swelling
Dysport manufacturers also warn of rare but more severe side effects that may happen if Dysport spreads to unwanted areas. The side effects include:
- Swallowing and breathing problems
- Muscle weakness
- Double or blurred vision
- Drooping eyelids
- Loss of bladder control
- Nausea
Dysport Treatment Aftercare
To minimize risks and ensure the best results after a Dysport treatment, follow these aftercare tips:
- Don’t exercise for 24 hours
- Avoid direct sources of heat and light
- Don’t rub the treated area for 24 hours
- Don’t lie or bend down for four hours
- Avoid facial cosmetic treatments for two weeks
- Avoid certain medication, as instructed by your medical provider
Cost
At Vibrant Skin Bar, one unit of Dysport costs $4.50. The number of units required for the procedure depends on the location and severity of the wrinkles. This is what determines the total price. A typical Dysport treatment usually costs between $270 and $810.
Conclusion
It is certainly comforting to know we have safe, effective treatments for those undesirable signs of aging. If you have moderate to severe dynamic wrinkles that make you look older, tired, or grumpy, consider Dysport. Most people are happy with its smoothing effects and the quick onset of results. Make sure you book your treatment with a trusted medical provider to ensure you get the best advice and service for your cosmetic concern.
