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Botox vs. Dysport vs. Xeomin

Last updated: May 2026

Medically reviewed by Afters Medical Review Board, Board-Certified Specialists

Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are all FDA-approved neuromodulators that reduce wrinkles by relaxing muscles. Botox is the most widely used ($10–$15/unit), Dysport spreads more and may work faster ($4–$6/unit but requires more units), and Xeomin is a "naked" neurotoxin with no additives ($10–$15/unit). Results last 3–4 months for all three.

FeatureBotoxDysport
Cost$10 - $15 per unit$4 - $6 per unit (2.5-3x units needed)
RecoveryNoneNone
Longevity3-4 months3-4 months

Botox

$10 - $15 per unit
Recovery: None

Pros

  • •Most studied and longest track record (FDA-approved since 2002)
  • •Precise, predictable results
  • •Stays close to injection site — good for targeted areas
  • •Most injectors are highly experienced with Botox
  • •Extensive research on safety and efficacy

Cons

  • •Can take 3–7 days to see full results
  • •Typically the most expensive per treatment area
  • •Contains complexing proteins (small risk of antibody resistance over time)
  • •Results may diminish slightly with long-term repeated use for some patients

Best For:

First-time patientsPrecise targeted treatmentCrow's feet and forehead lines

Dysport

$4 - $6 per unit (2.5-3x units needed)
Recovery: None

Pros

  • •May work faster (results in 1–3 days)
  • •Spreads more — covers larger areas like the forehead efficiently
  • •Lower cost per unit (though more units are needed)
  • •Some patients find it feels more natural
  • •Good for treating larger surface areas

Cons

  • •Requires 2.5–3x more units than Botox (so total cost is similar)
  • •Greater spread can be a disadvantage for small, precise areas
  • •Fewer injectors are deeply experienced with Dysport vs. Botox
  • •May not last quite as long for some patients

Best For:

Forehead linesFaster onset neededLarger treatment areas

Key Differences

1

Botox stays more localized; Dysport diffuses more widely — this makes Dysport better for broad areas like the forehead and Botox better for precise spots like crow's feet

2

Dysport may kick in 1–2 days faster than Botox

3

Xeomin has no complexing proteins, which may reduce the risk of developing antibody resistance over time

4

Per-treatment cost is roughly similar across all three ($300–$600 per area) despite different per-unit pricing

5

All three last about 3–4 months, though individual results vary

Our Verdict

For most patients, the differences between Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are subtle. Botox is the safe, well-known choice with the most experienced injectors. Dysport is worth trying if you want faster results or are treating broad forehead lines. Xeomin is a smart option if you've noticed Botox becoming less effective over time (possible antibody resistance). Many experienced injectors use all three and will recommend based on your specific anatomy and treatment goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dysport cheaper than Botox?

Dysport costs less per unit ($4–$6 vs. $10–$15 for Botox), but you need roughly 2.5–3 times more units of Dysport to achieve the same effect. When calculated per treatment area, the total cost is typically similar — ranging from $300 to $600 per area for both products.

What is Xeomin and how is it different?

Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA) is sometimes called "naked Botox" because it contains only the active neurotoxin without the complexing proteins found in Botox and Dysport. This may reduce the chance of your body developing antibodies that make the treatment less effective over time. Results and duration are comparable to Botox.

Can I switch between Botox and Dysport?

Yes, you can switch between neuromodulators. Many patients try different products to see which works best for them. Some injectors even use different products on different areas of the same face in one session. There's no medical reason you can't switch.

Which lasts longer — Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin?

Clinical studies show all three products last approximately 3–4 months for most patients. Some patients report Dysport wearing off slightly sooner, while others find no difference. Individual variation in muscle strength, metabolism, and activity level affects duration more than the product itself.

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