When patients come to Silk Clinical for anti-wrinkle injections, one of the most common questions I hear is: "Should I get Botox or Dysport?" It is a fair question. Both products are used for the same purpose, both contain the same active ingredient, and both deliver excellent results. But there are meaningful differences between them that influence which product I recommend for each patient and each treatment area.
As a registered nurse injector, I work with both products regularly and choose between them based on clinical factors rather than brand preference. Here is what you need to know.
What They Have in Common
Both Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) are purified forms of botulinum toxin type A. They work through the same fundamental mechanism: temporarily blocking the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, which prevents the targeted muscles from contracting. When those muscles relax, the overlying skin smooths out, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles (the lines caused by repeated facial movements).
Both products are extensively studied, approved by Medsafe for cosmetic use in New Zealand, and have strong safety profiles when administered by a qualified practitioner.
Key Differences Between Botox and Dysport
Unit Measurements Are Not Equivalent
This is one of the most important distinctions and the source of considerable confusion. One unit of Botox is not the same as one unit of Dysport. The two products use different unit measurement systems, so the numbers are not directly comparable. A common conversion ratio used in clinical practice is approximately 1 unit of Botox to 2.5 to 3 units of Dysport, though this can vary depending on the treatment area and individual patient response.
This is why comparing prices on a per-unit basis requires context. At Silk Clinical, Dysport is priced at $6 per unit and Botox at $14 per unit. When you account for the conversion ratio, the overall cost of treating the same area is broadly similar, though Dysport often works out at a slightly lower per-area cost for larger treatment areas.
Diffusion and Spread
Dysport has a slightly different molecular structure that causes it to diffuse (spread) more broadly from the injection point compared to Botox. This characteristic is neither an advantage nor a disadvantage; it simply means each product has areas where it performs optimally.
The broader diffusion of Dysport makes it particularly well suited to larger, flatter muscle groups like the frontalis (forehead). It can achieve a smooth, even result across a wide area with fewer injection points. For smaller, more precise areas where controlled placement is critical, such as around the eyes or lips, Botox's more localised effect can be advantageous.
Onset Time
Dysport tends to take effect slightly faster than Botox. Many patients notice the effects of Dysport within two to three days, while Botox typically takes four to seven days to reach its full effect. If you have an event coming up and want results as quickly as possible, this is worth considering during your consultation.
Duration
Both products generally last three to four months, though individual variation is significant. Some patients find that one product lasts slightly longer for them than the other. Factors such as metabolism, muscle strength, treatment area, and dosage all influence duration. Over time, with regular treatments, many patients find they can extend the interval between sessions as the targeted muscles gradually weaken from reduced use.
How I Choose Between Them
My product recommendation is based on several clinical factors:
Treatment area: For the forehead and broad areas, I often favour Dysport for its smooth diffusion. For crow's feet, brow shaping, and areas requiring precision, Botox is frequently my first choice.
Patient anatomy: Everyone's facial anatomy is different. Muscle size, skin thickness, and the pattern of dynamic movement all influence which product will deliver the best result.
Previous response: If a patient has used one product before and had excellent results, there is usually no reason to change. Conversely, if someone feels their current product is not lasting as long as they would like, switching to the alternative can sometimes improve longevity.
Patient preference: Some patients simply prefer one product over the other based on their past experience, and I respect that.
Budget considerations: While the total treatment cost is similar, Dysport can offer slight savings for larger treatment areas. I always discuss pricing transparently so patients can make informed decisions.
What to Expect During Treatment
Regardless of which product we use, the treatment process at Silk Clinical is the same. After a thorough consultation and facial assessment, I cleanse the treatment area and use a very fine needle to administer small doses of product into the targeted muscles. The entire procedure typically takes 10 to 20 minutes.
Most patients describe the sensation as a mild pinch. We can apply ice or topical numbing if needed, but the vast majority of patients find it very manageable without any anaesthetic.
Aftercare is straightforward: avoid rubbing or pressing on the treated areas for four hours, stay upright for four hours after treatment, and avoid intense exercise for 24 hours. These precautions help ensure the product stays exactly where it was placed.
Pricing at Silk Clinical
Transparency around pricing is important to us. At Silk Clinical, our pricing is:
- Dysport: $6 per unit
- Botox: $14 per unit
During your consultation, I will provide a detailed quote based on the specific areas you want treated and the number of units required. There are no hidden fees. We want you to feel confident and informed about both the clinical and financial aspects of your treatment.
A Note on Safety
Anti-wrinkle injections are prescription medicines in New Zealand and should only be administered by qualified health professionals. At Silk Clinical, all injectable treatments are performed by registered nurses with specific training in cosmetic injectables. We follow strict hygiene protocols, use only genuine Medsafe-approved products, and maintain detailed records for every treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch between Botox and Dysport?
Yes. Switching between the two products is perfectly safe and quite common. Some patients alternate depending on availability, pricing promotions, or personal preference. If you want to try the other product at your next appointment, simply let me know during your consultation.
Which one lasts longer?
There is no definitive answer that applies to everyone. Clinical studies suggest both products last approximately three to four months on average. Individual variation is significant, and some patients genuinely do find one product lasts longer for them. The only way to know for certain is to try both over separate treatment cycles and compare your personal experience.
Will I look frozen or unnatural?
Not if the treatment is administered correctly. At Silk Clinical, my approach is to achieve a natural, refreshed result that preserves your ability to express emotion. I always start conservatively, especially with new patients, and adjust dosing over subsequent treatments based on how you respond. The goal is to soften lines, not eliminate all facial movement.
How many units will I need?
This varies considerably depending on the treatment area, your muscle strength, and the severity of your lines. As a general guide, treating the frown lines (glabella) typically requires 20 to 25 units of Botox or 50 to 60 units of Dysport. Forehead lines and crow's feet each require similar amounts. I will give you a precise quote after assessing your face during the consultation.
Is there any downtime?
There is essentially no downtime with anti-wrinkle injections. You may have tiny red marks at the injection sites that fade within 30 minutes to an hour. Bruising is possible but uncommon, and can be minimised by avoiding blood-thinning medications and supplements (such as aspirin, fish oil, and vitamin E) for a few days before treatment. Most patients return to work and normal activities immediately after their appointment.
Filed underBotoxDysportanti-wrinklecosmetic injectables Christchurch
