Xeomin, Botox, and Dysport
Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport are neuromodulators commonly used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. This desired effect occurs by temporarily relaxing the muscles where neurotoxin is injected. Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport all contain botulinum toxin as the active ingredient.
Areas that are commonly treated with these neuromodulators:
- Frontalis (forehead muscles)
- Glabella (frown lines)
- Crows feet
- Lips – smokers lines, lip flip
- Eyebrow lift
- Masseters (TMJ)
- Dimpled chin
- “Bunny lines”
- Downturned smile
- Neck bands
- Chest wrinkles
Botox is also indicated for the treatment of bladder spasms, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), cervical dystonia, facial spasms, migraine headaches, blepharospasm, and depression.
Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport generally take about 2 weeks to achieve the full therapeutic effects, and these results last about 3-6 months on average.
Although these neurotoxins are very similar and commonly used interchangeably, there are some differences between them regarding the onset of results, duration, potency, etc. For example, Dysport tends to take effect quicker in comparison to Xeomin and Botox. Dysport also tends to diffuse over a larger surface area per injection site as compared to Xeomin and Botox. (Dysport = nickel size spread, Botox = dime size spread). Unlike Botox and Dysport, Xeomin does not have a protective protein coating or contain other ingredients.
| Xeomin | Botox | Dysport | |
| When do results start showing? | 4-9 days | 4-9 days | 2-5 days |
| How long do results last? | 3-6 months | 3-6 months | 3-6 months |
| Potency | 4 u/ 0.1 ml | 4 u/ 0.1 ml | 10 u/ 0.1 ml |
| Structure/diffusion | No protective protein | Protective protein | Protective protein – wider spread |
| Average # units/visit | 20 u | 20 u | 40 u |
IAPAM. 2021. Xeomin vs Botox vs Dysport Explained by an IAPAM Expert | IAPAM. Available at: https://iapam.com/xeomin-vs-botox-vs-dysport/
Haney, B., 2020. Aesthetic procedures: Nurse Practitioner’s Guide to Cosmetic Dermatology. Irvine: Springer Nature Switzerland AG.
