Did you know your skin starts aging as early as your mid-20s to early 30s? It’s around this time you may begin to notice fine lines and wrinkles forming. While these are a natural part of the aging process, anti-aging treatments like neurotoxins can help boost your confidence and work to prevent further signs of aging. But what sets neurotoxins like Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport apart? And how do you know which wrinkle relaxer is right for you?
Botox vs. Xeomin vs. Dysport: Similarities
All three neurotoxins—Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport—are derived from Clostridium Botulinum type A. These injectable neuromodulators work by blocking nerve signals, which relaxes the facial muscles. On average, each neurotoxin lasts about 3-4 months, though the exact duration depends on your metabolism and the dosage (number of units) you receive. All three options are highly effective at reducing frown lines, crow’s feet, and deep forehead lines without the need for surgery. These non-invasive treatments offer a safe way to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.
Botox vs. Xeomin vs. Dysport: Differences
The main differences between Botox vs Xeomin vs Dysport come down to the presence of additive proteins, how much the toxin spreads under the skin, and the speed at which results appear.
Botox and Dysport contain complexing proteins around the toxin, while Xeomin has no added proteins. This absence of extra proteins in Xeomin can lower the risk of allergic reactions or the development of neutralizing antibodies. Patients with specific allergies, such as to egg or lactose proteins, should avoid Dysport due to the presence of these allergens.
Xeomin has the smallest spread under the skin—about the size of a dime—while Botox spreads to the size of a penny, and Dysport spreads the most, roughly the size of a quarter. The greater the spread of the toxin, the more units will be needed in the treated area.
While some patients feel that Xeomin and Dysport may take effect faster than Botox, there is no clinical evidence to confirm this. On average, our Xeomin patients notice results within 3-4 days, Dysport within 2-3 days, and Botox within 5-7 days. However, it can sometimes take more than a week to see the full effects of a neurotoxin treatment. We recommend that patients return for a follow-up 2 weeks after injection to ensure they’ve achieved their desired results.
Why Are Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport Important for Anti-Aging?
These neurotoxins are ideal for addressing dynamic lines—wrinkles that form from facial expressions like squinting, raising your eyebrows, or smiling. When you’re young, your skin produces plenty of collagen and elastin, allowing it to bounce back without visible wrinkles. However, as you age, collagen and elastin production decreases—by nearly half by your early 30s—causing these lines to become more permanent. If your skin no longer “snaps back” after facial movements, it might be time to consider regular neurotoxin treatments to prevent further muscle contraction and allow your skin time to repair.
Are Neurotoxins Preventative or Corrective?
Neurotoxins can serve both preventative and corrective purposes. Younger patients (in their 20s and 30s) can use neurotoxins to prevent wrinkles by relaxing facial muscles before the skin shows signs of aging. For those in their 40s and beyond, neurotoxins can help correct existing wrinkles by minimizing further damage. Whether your goal is prevention or correction, consistency is key to achieving the best results.
At Lotus Wellness and Medspa, our experienced PA-C injector, Mariana, will customize a treatment plan tailored to your needs, taking into account your prior experiences with neurotoxins, medical history, and personal preferences. Whether your plan includes Botox, Xeomin, Dysport, or a combination of all three, we recommend starting with a complimentary consultation to find the right treatment for you.
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