Xeomin and Dysport are two neuromodulators created as alternatives to popular cosmetic fillers. While both are effective and generally safe treatments for wrinkles and fine lines, it’s important to understand their differences. These two injectable treatments are some of the most popular options among people seeking a non-invasive, fast way to give themselves a more youthful look.
This blog post will take an in-depth look at what sets these two treatments apart so that you can make an informed decision when it comes time to choose one. So if you’re trying to figure out which treatment might be right for you — read on.
What is a Neuromodulator?
A neuromodulator is an injectable treatment that temporarily blocks certain muscles from contracting, which relaxes wrinkles and lines. This is an effective and safe way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, creating a more youthful face. Xeomin and Dysport are both examples of neuromodulators. [1]
What is Dysport?
Produced by Medicis and granted FDA approval in 2009, Dysport is a popular botulinum toxin formulation. Dysport is a wrinkle relaxer comparable to Botox in terms of its effectiveness, duration of effects, and potential adverse effects (bruising, edema, and headache). [2]
Dysport has been watered down, so you may require a larger dose than usual. This may also explain why Dysport is occasionally less costly, although requiring more injections. Because its molecules are smaller, Dysport acts more quickly and may spread over a wider region.
What is Xeomin?
This neuromodulator is the market’s younger sister. Xeomin, made by Merz and authorized by the FDA in 2011, has the same ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, the same length of time until the benefits begin to wear off, and the same common adverse effects. Unlike Botox, which has a cluster of proteins surrounding its active monomer, Xeomin is a “naked” neurotoxin consisting of pure botulinum toxin-A.
The “nakedness” of the product implies that it may be stored and transported without refrigeration. Results from Xeomin may not be immediately noticeable. (about 4 days) [3]
Xeomin vs. Dysport: Which lasts longer?
Dysport is made with a protein additive. Xeomin, however, does not. There are benefits and drawbacks to the injection based on this differentiation. Dysport has a little longer duration than Xeomin, thanks to the proteins they include. However, they may also reduce the chemical’s efficacy and provide diminished outcomes over time. The likelihood of an allergic response in Xeomin is reduced since the protein is removed.
A big difference between Dysport and Xeomin is how soon you can see results. When comparing injectables, it is useful to know how long their effects kick in. Dysport takes 24 hours before you can see results, while Xeomin takes around 4 days.
Remember that for all three injectables, complete results will be seen in a week or two, since the onset of results defines when you will start to notice the results. However, the effects of any of these methods will only remain for three to six months after the injection has been made.
Xeomin vs. Dysport Benefits
Treatment with Xeomin for glabellar lines, such as those found between the brows, typically produces noticeable improvement within five to six days. It is superior to Dysport in reducing the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles.
The ability of Xeomin to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines is one of its most appealing qualities. However, beyond that, because of its purity and absence of additional proteins, it is frequently the most sustainable therapy. Upper lip spasticity, cervical dystonia, blepharospasm, and other spasms of the facial muscles are also treated with both medications.
The absence of extra proteins gives Xeomin the potential benefit of being less likely to cause resistance than Dysport, albeit resistance is extremely unusual.
Side Effects of Xeomin vs. Dysport: Which is Safer?
Both Xeomin and Dysport are safe and effective. Because they all contain the same active substance, the adverse effects of these injectable medications are identical. Pain at the injection site, discomfort, headache, dry eyes, blurred vision, and transient bruising are some of the side effects. More adverse reactions may show up after injecting the drug.
One of the most common Xeomin and Dysport side effects is bruising, swelling or redness around the injection site. After a few days, this issue normally goes away on its own. Xeomin and Dysport can also cause temporary facial paralysis if injected incorrectly, so it’s important only to use an experienced injector who knows how to administer Xeomin and Dysport properly.
Also, Xeomin has less risk for this side effect, as it has a smaller molecular weight and is more precise than Dysport. In some cases, Xeomin may also cause drooping of the eyelids, while Dysport can cause neck muscle weakness or even swell in rare cases.
Before utilizing any injectable, whether Dysport, or Xeomin, it is important to see a dermatologist. Follow your doctor’s orders to the letter to reduce the likelihood of experiencing negative side effects.
Xeomin vs. Dysport Units
Here are the recommended dose units of Xeomin and Dysport.
| Condition | Xeomin | Dysport |
| Chronic sialorrhea | 100 units per treatment; divided dose into a ratio of 3:2 | 150 units per side |
| Upper limb spasticity | Not more than 400units per treatment session | Up to 1000 to 1500 units |
| Cervical dystonia | 120 units per IM treatment session | 500 units per IM; divided in affected muscles |
| Blepharospasm | 25 units per eye; not more than 100 units per treatment session | 40 units per eye |
| Glabellar lines | 20 units per session; divided into 5 equal IM injections of 4 units each | 50 units in equally divided doses in 5 injection sites |
Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA) is a pure form of botulinum toxin type A that requires fewer units, making it cost-effective. Dysport is less expensive per unit but requires more units before noticeable benefits are seen than Xeomin. Xeomin takes longer to start working, but less of it is needed to get the same outcomes.
On the other hand, Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) requires a larger dose and tends to spread out further in the skin — making it an excellent choice for those looking to treat wrinkles in a larger area.
Xeomin vs. Dysport Cost
Dysport may cost about $450 for one treatment session. Even though Dysport’s $4-$8 price range may seem lower than Xeomin’s, keep in mind that you’ll really need nearly twice as many units to achieve the same results.
On the other hand, Xeomin amounts between $10 and $18 per unit. It costs between $450 and $500 for each session on average.
Bottomline: Comparing Xeomin and Dysport
Xeomin and Dysport are both effective treatments for reducing wrinkles and fine lines. Xeomin is a purified botulinum toxin type A that requires fewer units, making it cost-effective. Xeomin also produces noticeable results in the treated area after 5–7 days. On the other hand, Dysport requires a larger dose and is typically more affordable than Xeomin. It also works quickly to provide widespread wrinkle-reducing effects.
Ultimately, it will be up to you to decide which treatment is right for your needs. Before making any decisions, make sure to speak with your doctor about Xeomin vs. Dysport and what you can expect from each treatment. They will be able to provide you with the guidance needed to make an informed decision about which option is best for you.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Field M, Splevins A, Picaut P, van der Schans M, Langenberg J, Noort D, Snyder D, Foster K. AbobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport®), OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox®), and IncobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin®) Neurotoxin Content and Potential Implications for Duration of Response in Patients. Toxins (Basel). 2018 Dec 13;10(12):535. doi: 10.3390/toxins10120535. Erratum in: Toxins (Basel). 2019 Feb 13;11(2): PMID: 30551641; PMCID: PMC6316182.
- Sarzyńska-Długosz I, Szczepańska-Szerej A, Drużdż A, Łukomski T, Ochudło S, Fabian A, Sobolewski P, Mariańska K, Maciejewska J, Mulek E, Niedzielska A, Raymond R, Brzózka MM, Jessa-Jabłońska M. Real-world effectiveness of abobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport®) in adults with upper limb spasticity in routine clinical practice: an observational study. Neurol Neurochir Pol. 2020;54(1):90-99. doi: 10.5603/PJNNS.a2020.0004. Epub 2020 Jan 20. PMID: 31956971.
- Park J, Lee MS, Harrison AR. Profile of Xeomin® (incobotulinumtoxinA) for the treatment of blepharospasm. Clin Ophthalmol. 2011;5:725-32. doi: 10.2147/OPTH.S13978. Epub 2011 Jun 1. PMID: 21691580; PMCID: PMC3116796.
