If you’re thinking about smoothing fine lines or preventing new wrinkles, you’ve probably come across three common injectable options: Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. While they’re similar in many ways, there are key differences that can help you and your provider decide which one is best for your goals.
This guide breaks down how these wrinkle relaxers compare in ingredients, results, cost, and more.
What Do Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin Have in Common?
All three injectables are forms of botulinum toxin type A, which works by temporarily relaxing facial muscles that cause wrinkles.
They share many benefits:
FDA-approved and clinically studied
Non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure
Quick treatment with little to no downtime
Results lasting several months
Botox: The Original Wrinkle Relaxer
Botox® is the most widely known and studied of the three.
Best for: Forehead lines, crow’s feet, frown lines.
Key highlights:
Results appear within 3–7 days
Lasts about 3–4 months
Proven track record with millions of treatments worldwide
Dysport: The Fast-Acting Option
Dysport® works similarly to Botox but has a slightly different formulation.
Best for: Larger treatment areas like the forehead.
Key highlights:
Results may appear faster (within 2–3 days)
May spread more easily under the skin, making it ideal for broad areas
Duration is about 3–4 months
Xeomin: The “Clean” Option
Xeomin® is sometimes called the “naked” neurotoxin because it doesn’t contain accessory proteins found in Botox or Dysport.
Best for: Patients who have developed resistance to Botox or Dysport.
Key highlights:
Results appear in 3–4 days
Lasts about 3–4 months
Lower risk of antibody resistance over time
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Botox | Dysport | Xeomin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onset of Results | 3–7 days | 2–3 days | 3–4 days |
| Duration | 3–4 months | 3–4 months | 3–4 months |
| Best For | Forehead, crow’s feet, frown lines | Large areas (forehead) | Patients with resistance concerns |
| Formulation | Botulinum toxin with proteins | Botulinum toxin with proteins | Pure botulinum toxin |
Which One Should You Choose?
The right option depends on your goals, treatment area, and past experience with injectables.
Choose Botox if you want the most established, widely used option.
Choose Dysport if you want faster results in large areas like the forehead.
Choose Xeomin if you’re concerned about resistance or prefer a “pure” formulation.
Are Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin Safe?
Yes — when administered by a trained provider, all three are safe, FDA-approved treatments. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as slight redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
Key Takeaways
Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin all work by relaxing muscles to smooth wrinkles.
Differences lie in formulation, onset time, and ideal treatment areas.
A consultation with a qualified provider ensures you get the best option for your needs.
Not sure which injectable is right for you? Book your consultation at Central Wellness in Billings, MT, and let our experts guide you to the best treatment option for your goals.
