Dysport vs. Botox vs. Xeomin: Which One to Use and When

As injectables continue to grow in popularity and effectiveness, it seems as though there are more options to choose from today than ever before. At one time, Botox was the primary and most effective injectable facial treatment. In recent years, that has changed. 

Today, Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport top the list of popular treatments. Each is effective and provides excellent treatment results. 

So, which one should you use to meet your goals?  

Dysport, Botox, Xeomin: Side-by-Side Comparison

All three are injectable options made from the botulinum toxin used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. All are quick, non-invasive treatments that produce excellent results when treatments are done by a qualified professional. Dysport, Botox, and Xeomin are neuromodulators. 

A neuromodulator is a type of protein that blocks communication between nerve cells and the muscle they control. Because Dysport, Xeomin, and Botox are derived from the botulinum toxin (a neuromodulator protein), they all work by blocking communication to the muscles in the treated area. This allows the muscle to relax and improves the appearance of the skin. 

The primary difference between the three treatments is how long it takes for the results to take effect and how many "units" of injectable are needed to achieve desired results. For most people, Dysport requires more units than Botox or Xeomin, but results appear faster and cost less per unit overall. 

Conversely, results are slower to appear with Botox and Xeomin, but the total cost of treatments for Botox and Xeomin is less because fewer units are necessary. The effects of all three treatments last for the same amount of time, so maintenance treatments follow the same general schedule regardless of the type of injectable.

Side Effects of Dysport, Botox, and Xeomin

All three products are FDA-approved and considered safe in most cases. Because all three have the same active ingredient, the side effects are the same across the board. The side effects of Dysport, Botox, and Xeomin include headache, dry eyes, blurry vision, injection site pain, irritation, and bruising. 

Some people may experience effects unique to the person and the use of an injectable in general. 

Units Required: Dysport, Xeomin Botox

As mentioned above, the units required for each injectable varies based on the product and the size of the treatment area; however, there are a few basic guidelines for each product. 

How many units of Dysport are needed?

Approximately 60 units are needed for frown lines (the "eleven" lines between your eyebrows). The horizontal lines on the forehead typically require 30-60 units, and "crow's feet" (the line and wrinkles around the eyes need 30-50 units (per eye) of Dysport.  

How many units of Xeomin are needed?

Overall, Xeomin requires fewer units to treat lines and wrinkles on the face. Crow's feet need between 5 and 20 units, frown lines need between 15 and 30 units, and horizontal forehead lines need between 20 and 40 units. 

How many units of Botox are needed?

The number of Botox units needed closely follows that of Xeomin. For horizontal forehead lines, between 10 and 15 units are required. Crow's feet require 10-15 units per eye, and frown lines require between 20 and 30 units. 

How Long Do Dysport, Xeomin, and Botox Last?

The onset of results for Xeomin, Botox, and Dysport differ. Most people see the initial effects of Dysport treatments within 24 hours. Botox can take closer to 72 hours, and Xeomin up to four days to see the initial results of your treatment. The full results from all three can take up to two weeks. 

All three options last for three to six months before maintenance injections are needed to maintain treatment effects. The exact duration will vary from person to person, the size of the treatment area, and how much was injected into the treatment area. 

Cost of Dysport, Xeomin, and Botox

The cost of injectable treatments varies depending on several factors, including your provider, the size of the treatment area, and the number of units needed to achieve desired results. However, as with the number of required units, there are general guidelines for the cost per unit of each treatment. 

How much is Dysport per unit?

Dysport injections typically cost between $4 and $6 per unit. It is important to remember that while less expensive per unit, more units of Dysport are required to achieve desired results. So, in the end, Dysport may cost more depending on your treatment needs. 

How much is Xeomin per unit?

Xeomin injections generally cost between $10 and $15 per unit. 

How much is Botox per unit?

The cost of Botox injections is usually comparable to that of Xeomin injections at $10 to $15 per unit. 

Which is better: Botox, Xeomin, or Dysport?

Although Botox continues to be a well-known and popular injectable treatment, all three options offer the same benefits and produce excellent results. In the end, the question of "which is better" often comes down to personal choice. 

When choosing between the three treatments, it is important to talk to a member of our team at Clique Salon and Med Spa about the pros and cons of each treatment option. 

We can help you learn more about which filler will help you achieve your specific goals. To learn more about all three treatment options, contact us today to schedule a consultation.