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If you’ve been thinking about smoothing lines on your forehead, softening the “11s” between your brows, or freshening up crow’s feet, you’ve probably seen two names come up again and again: Botox and Dysport. They’re both popular for a reason, and they’re both used every day in aesthetic medicine. But if you’re stuck on the same question most people have, which one is right for you, it helps to understand what actually makes them different.
At San Antonio Med Spa, we offer both options and customize your plan around your facial anatomy, your goals, and how you want your results to look. Botox is a trusted, FDA-approved injectable that temporarily relaxes targeted facial muscles to smooth expression lines and help prevent deeper creases from setting in. Dysport is also a botulinum toxin type A injectable that works by relaxing specific muscles that create dynamic wrinkles, with a reputation for showing up a bit sooner for some patients.
How Botox And Dysport Actually Work
Both treatments fall under the “neuromodulator” category. That’s a fancy way of saying they reduce the muscle movement that creates dynamic wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are the lines that show up because your face is expressive. Smiling, squinting, frowning, raising your brows. Over time, those repeated movements can start leaving their mark.
Here’s the simple version:
- These injectables are placed in very specific muscles.
- They temporarily relax those muscles.
- Less muscle pull means the skin on top looks smoother.
Botox works by relaxing targeted facial muscles that cause expression lines, which helps the skin look smoother without surgery or downtime. Dysport wrinkle relaxer works similarly by blocking nerve signals to targeted muscles, which prevents contraction and helps smooth the skin’s surface.
So if they work in a similar way, what’s the point of comparing them? That’s where timing, spread, and your personal response come in.
The Real difference between Botox and Dysport
When people ask about the difference, they’re usually asking about a few practical things:
1) How quickly it kicks in
Patients usually see visible improvements from Botox within about 3 to 5 days, with full results in about two weeks. Dysport often begins showing results within 2 to 3 days, with full effects visible within about a week.
2) How it “spreads” in the area
While both are precise when injected correctly, Dysport is often described as having a slightly broader diffusion pattern. That can be helpful in certain areas for certain faces, but it’s not automatically “better.” It’s about matching the product to the anatomy and goal.
3) Dosing is not one-to-one
Botox units and Dysport units are not interchangeable. You can’t compare price or “how much you need” by looking at the raw unit number alone. A good comparison is always based on the plan, not the unit count.
What Wrinkles Do They Treat Best?
At San Antonio Med Spa, we commonly use Botox to address forehead creases, crow’s feet, and frown lines. Dysport is particularly effective for frown lines between the eyebrows, forehead wrinkles, and crow’s feet as well.
So if you’re comparing Dysport vs Botox for wrinkles, the truth is that both can work extremely well for the same core concerns. The deciding factor is usually the “feel” and timing of results, plus how your muscles behave.
Botox Vs Dysport For Frown Lines
Those “11 lines” (glabellar lines) are one of the most common reasons people start neuromodulators in the first place. Dysport is often favored for treating strong frown lines between the eyebrows. Botox for wrinkle prevention is also widely used as part of its overall wrinkle-smoothing approach.
If your frown lines are pronounced, the best option often comes down to injector strategy: placement, balance, and how much relaxation you need without changing your natural expressions.
Dysport Vs Botox Results Timeline: What To Expect Week By Week
It’s normal to want a clear timeline, especially if you’re planning around an event, photos, or travel. Here’s a realistic overview:
- Days 2–3: Dysport may start showing early changes for some patients.
- Days 3–5: Botox often starts showing visible improvements.
- Days 7–14: Botox continues to settle in, with full results around two weeks. Dysport is typically fully visible within about 5 to 7 days.
If you’ve ever felt impatient waiting for results, you’re not alone. A lot of first-timers assume they’ll walk out and immediately see a dramatic difference. Neuromodulators are more of a “wake up, look in the mirror, and realize your face looks calmer” kind of change.
How Long Do Results Last?
Both options tend to last in a similar range for most people.
Botox results typically last about 3 to 4 months. Dysport results also typically last around 3 to 4 months, with some patients reporting effects lasting slightly longer.
If your results fade a little sooner than expected, it does not mean anything went “wrong.” Metabolism, muscle strength, stress, activity levels, and consistency all affect duration. Some people also need one or two sessions before they feel like they’ve found their sweet spot.
So, Botox Or Dysport, Which Is Better?
This is the honest answer: it depends on what you want, and how your face responds.
Botox tends to be the go-to when someone wants a very controlled, familiar approach to wrinkle softening with a long-standing track record. Dysport can be a great fit if you’re hoping for a slightly faster onset and strong smoothing in areas like the frown lines between the brows.
If you’re weighing dysport vs botox for wrinkles, the best “test” is often to choose one with your provider, evaluate the results together, and adjust next time if needed. Your first appointment is not a life sentence. It’s information.
Getting It Done In The Right Place Matters More Than The Brand Name
Most people don’t actually want “more Botox.” They want to look like themselves, just less tired, less tense, and less bothered by what the mirror is showing.
That’s why our approach is focused on balance and natural results, not a frozen look. Whether you choose Botox San Antonio patients know and love, or you decide to try Dysport, the plan should be built around your facial movement patterns, not a generic template.
If you’re considering Botox in San Antonio, TX, or Dysport in San Antonio, TX, the easiest way to decide is to come in for a personalized consultation at San Antonio Med Spa. We’ll assess your facial expressions, talk through your goals and timing, and help you choose the option that makes the most sense for you, without pressure and without a one-size-fits-all approach. Book Your Injectables Consult!
