Botox Alternatives and Comparisons

Botox is the household name when it comes to neuromodulators, but it is not the only option. Dysport, Xeomin, and Daxxify can all achieve similar results with subtle differences. In our practice, we use these products strategically depending on the patient and the area being treated.

Understanding Neuromodulators

Neuromodulators work by relaxing the muscles that create expression lines. While Botox is the household name, several similar products can achieve the same result with subtle differences. In our practice, we use neuromodulators strategically depending on the patient and the area being treated.

What is the difference between Botox and Dysport?

• What's different: Dysport and Botox are very similar in their core molecule, but Dysport may contain slightly more active units per vial. This can create the perception that it lasts a bit longer.

• Longevity: Both typically last about 3 to 4 months. We have found that Dysport sometimes edges a bit longer, especially on strong muscles like frown lines.

• Natural look: The look depends more on technique than the product, but Dysport can sometimes give a slightly softer effect on large muscles.

• Onset speed: Dysport tends to kick in a little faster, often within a few days, while Botox may take closer to a week. We always remind patients not to judge results until the full 2-week mark.

• Switching: Patients can absolutely switch between Botox and Dysport. We sometimes even use both on the same face, applying Dysport on strong areas like frown lines and something lighter elsewhere.

How long does Dysport last compared to Botox?

Both Dysport and Botox typically last about 3 to 4 months. In some cases, Dysport can edge a bit longer, especially when treating strong muscles like the frown lines. And if you are wondering, does Dysport look more natural than Botox? The overall look depends more on technique than on the product itself, but Dysport can sometimes give a slightly softer effect on large muscles, which some patients feel looks more natural.

Can you switch between Botox and Dysport?

Patients can absolutely switch between Botox and Dysport. In fact, some treatments even combine the two, with Dysport used on strong areas like frown lines and Botox or another option applied elsewhere. Switching is safe and can be done at any visit, depending on the patient's goals and the specific areas being treated.

You might also be asking, which starts working faster, Botox or Dysport? Dysport tends to kick in a little sooner, often within a few days, while Botox may take closer to a week. Still, it is important to wait the full 2 weeks before judging results, since that is when the final outcome becomes visible.

Botox vs. Xeomin

• What's different: Xeomin does not contain accessory carrier proteins, while Botox does. Because of this, some people think Xeomin may carry less risk of antibody resistance over time.

• Natural look: We find Xeomin to feel a bit lighter and softer, which can be perfect for the forehead if the goal is to preserve movement.

• Longevity: Because we typically use it lightly, Xeomin often lasts a bit less than Botox, closer to 2-3 months.

• Switching: Patients can safely switch between them at any visit depending on their goals.

Why is Xeomin considered more natural than Botox?

Xeomin does not contain accessory carrier proteins, while Botox does. Because of this difference, some believe Xeomin may carry less risk of antibody resistance over time. In practice, Xeomin often feels a bit lighter and softer, which can be ideal for areas like the forehead when the goal is to preserve more natural movement.

Can you switch from Botox to Xeomin? Yes, patients can safely switch between them at any visit depending on their goals. This flexibility allows treatments to be tailored for the most natural-looking results.

Does Xeomin last longer than Botox?

Xeomin often lasts a bit less than Botox, closer to 2 to 3 months. Botox, on the other hand, typically holds results for about 3 to 4 months. One reason for this difference is that Xeomin is usually used more lightly, especially in areas like the forehead, to preserve natural movement.

What is the difference between Botox and Daxxify?

• What's different: Daxxify uses a unique peptide-based carrier that was designed to bind more strongly and last longer. It is FDA-approved for frown lines, but used off-label elsewhere.

• Longevity: Marketed for 6+ months, but real-world results have often been closer to 3-4 months, similar to Botox.

• Risks: There have been rare reports of droopy eyelids. That can happen with any neuromodulator, but it becomes more concerning with something designed to last longer.

• Areas of use: Daxxify can technically be used anywhere Botox can, including crow's feet and around the mouth, though it is only officially approved for frown lines.

• Side effects: There have been rare reports of dry mouth, though we have not personally observed it in our patients.

Why does Daxxify last longer than Botox?

Daxxify uses a unique peptide-based carrier that was designed to bind more strongly and extend its effects. This formulation is what sets it apart from Botox and contributes to its marketed longevity of 6 or more months. However, real-world results have often shown that Daxxify lasts closer to 3 to 4 months, which is similar to Botox.

Our Approach to Botox & Other Neuromodulators

The real art is choosing the right product for the right muscle. Dr Binder does not believe one is "better" than the others. Instead, at Binder Dermatology, the products are selected based on which will create the most natural result for each individual patient and each specific area.

Ready to Find the Right Treatment for You?

Whether you're considering Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, or Daxxify, the key is choosing the product that best suits your goals and facial anatomy. At Binder Dermatology, specializes in creating natural, refreshed results tailored to each patient.

Book your consultation today and discover which option is right for you.