The quest for youthful and radiant skin has led to a multitude of non-surgical treatment options, including neurotoxin injections. Among these, Xeomin and Dysport have emerged as formidable contenders, offering safe and effective solutions for reducing facial wrinkles and skin rejuvenation.
Xeomin and Dysport are derived from Botulinum toxin, a naturally occurring protein that temporarily relaxes facial muscles to diminish the appearance of dynamic wrinkles caused by repetitive facial expressions.
This article explains the differences between Xeomin and Dysport, including their benefits, formulas, and most suitable treatment areas.
Xeomin Overview
Xeomin is an FDA-approved neurotoxin injectable designed to improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines by temporarily freezing facial muscles and erasing wrinkles in the glabellar (eyebrow) area.
Xeomin is the so-called "naked" neurotoxin, containing only the purified form of its active ingredient - Botulinum toxin type A - without additional complexing proteins. Because of this, there is a lower risk of triggering an immune response and developing resistance to treatment over time.
Dysport Overview
Dysport is an FDA-approved neurotoxin injectable that blocks nerve signals to the muscles in the glabellar area. It causes temporary relaxation and smoothing of the overlying skin resulting in a more youthful, rejuvenated appearance.
Dysport is the brand name of the neuromuscular blocker "AbobotulinumtoxinA” and is similar to other neurotoxin treatments, such as Botox and Xeomin. Dysport has a unique formulation containing complexing proteins and the manufacturing process and is indicated for moderate to severe glabellar lines.
Note: Learn about the difference between Botox and Dysport.
Xeomin vs. Dysport: Ingredients and Formula
Xeomin
Xeomin is derived from Botulinum toxin type A. However, the main difference between Xeomin and other neurotoxins is that this is the only active ingredient it contains. Xeomin is free of additives such as complexing proteins, which minimizes the chances of allergic reactions.
Dysport
Dysport also contains the active Botulinum toxin type A. Unlike Xeomin, Dysport includes complexing proteins and additives, which makes its formula more similar to Botox. The complexing proteins prolong the effects of the treatment but may cause allergic reactions in some patients.
Xeomin vs. Dysport: Targeted Areas
The FDA approved both Xeomin and Dysport for the treatment of forehead (horizontal and vertical) lines. However, providers also safely use them to treat other areas off-label.
The key difference between these two injectables is that while Xeomin can effectively smooth out fine lines, Dysport shows better results when treating moderate to severe wrinkles.
| Xeomin | Dysport |
|---|---|
| FDA-approved: Forehead Off-label: Under the eyes Above the lips Around the nose | FDA-approved: Forehead Off-label: Chin Neck Bunny lines Around the lips Nasolabial folds |
Xeomin vs. Dysport: Procedure
Xeomin and Dysport treatments follow the same procedure, which includes the following steps:
- Consultation – Before the treatment, patients meet with their medical provider to discuss their goals, medical history, the treatment’s potential side effects, downtime, etc. The medical provider assesses the patient’s facial structure and skin condition to recommend the best treatment and the number of units needed for the best results.
- Preparation – The medical provider gently cleanses the face, applies a topical treatment such as lidocaine to minimize discomfort, and marks the injection spots.
- Insertion – The medical provider injects Xeomin or Dysport with a fine needle. The treatment lasts a couple of minutes, and the number of units required is different for each patient.
- Aftercare – Downtime is minimal, and the medical provider may recommend applying ice packs on the treated area and avoiding heavy exercise, sun exposure, or lying down too soon after the treatment.
- Follow-up – The medical provider schedules a follow-up consultation to check the results and the treatment’s possible side effects.
Xeomin vs. Dysport: Results
Xeomin
The results of Xeomin take up to 4 days to become visible because the injectable’s single active ingredient takes longer to show its effects. They typically last from 3 to 6 months, depending on the body’s ability to adjust to the treatment. Providers recommend touchups to prolong the smoothing effects of the treatment.
Dysport
The results of Dysport are visible within 24 hours after the treatment because the complexing proteins stick together to speed up the results and make them more effective. They are visible for up to 6 months, depending on the frequency of touchups and the patient’s muscle structure.
Note: Learn how long it takes for Dysport to work.
Xeomin vs. Dysport: Number of Units
The number of units the provider will use depends on many factors, including facial structure, age, the severity of the wrinkles, and the patient’s medical history. The table below shows the average number of units used for treating different areas.
| Xeomin | Dysport |
|---|---|
| 20-40 units for the forehead 5-20 units for around the eyes 15-30 units for frown lines | 20-80 units for the forehead 30-60 units for around the eyes 40-80 units for frown lines 10-20 units for bunny lines 5-10 units for the chin 20-30 units per neck band |
Note: One Xeomin unit is equivalent to approximately 3 Dysport units.
Xeomin vs. Dysport: Side Effects
Both Xeomin and Dysport can cause side effects that range from mild to severe. Mild side effects include:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Bleeding at the injection site
- Pain
- Redness
- Skin sensitivity
- Flu-like symptoms
Severe symptoms are far less common, and they include:
- Allergic reactions
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Nervousness
- Headaches
- Ear pounding
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest tightness
If you experience any of these side effects, do not hesitate to contact your medical provider as soon as possible to receive proper treatment.
Xeomin vs. Dysport: Cost
One unit of Xeomin costs $12.50 at Vibrant Skin Bar.
One unit of Dysport costs $4.50 at Vibrant Skin Bar.
What Is Better: Xeomin or Dysport?
The choice between Xeomin and Dysport is based on your personal preferences and your provider’s recommendation since both are equally beneficial for erasing premature aging signs and giving you a more youthful and glowing appearance.
If you tend to develop allergic reactions to any of the ingredients contained in the neurotoxin formulation or you develop resistance to the proteins in Dysport or Botox, your medical provider will most likely recommend Xeomin. Aside from that, since the results are similar in longevity and efficiency, the choice is entirely up to you.
Conclusion
Both Xeomin and Dysport are Botulinum toxin type A injectables, offering safe and effective solutions for reducing facial wrinkles and rejuvenating one's appearance.
Choosing between Xeomin and Dysport should be based on individual needs, preferences, and the expertise of the administering medical provider. A thorough consultation with a qualified professional is essential to determine the most suitable option and create a personalized treatment plan for achieving natural-looking and satisfactory results.
For Xeomin and Dysport injections near the Phoenix area, reach out to our medical professionals at Vibrant Skin Bar to schedule a consultation.
