When it comes to combatting wrinkles, you have a variety of options, but it’s important to understand that not all anti-aging treatments are created equally. That’s because not all wrinkles are created in the same ways. Some wrinkles are caused by the loss of collagen loss and other natural substances that provide the skin with structure and volume. The best treatments for these static wrinkles stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, or restore volume beneath the surface of the skin to provide a more youthful appearance.

But dynamic wrinkles (those caused by repeated facial expressions) are usually best treated with products containing neuromodulators, tiny proteins that temporarily block the nerve impulses of the muscles that cause them.

Botox, Dysport and Xeomin are your allies in the war on dynamic wrinkles, and they’re excellent for minimizing the appearance of:

• Laugh lines
• Frown lines
• Forehead wrinkles
• Crows feet
• Bunny wrinkles
• Other rogue wrinkles caused by facial muscles

At San Diego Cosmetic Laser Clinic, many of our patients come in with questions about Botox vs Dysport, or Xeomin vs Botox, and the truth is they all work beautifully. So how do you know which one is best for you? Read on to learn more about Botox vs Dysport vs Xeomin.

The formulas

Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin all contain the same active ingredient: botulinum toxin type A. The differences between the three formulas are slight but significant.  Botox and Dysport formulas both surround the neurotoxin core with accessory proteins to help carry the active ingredient. These protein complexes change both the molecule size and the diffusion rate. The larger molecules in Botox make it ideal for deep wrinkles and give it a lower risk of spreading to areas outside the injection site. Dysport’s smaller molecules make it more diffuse and a great option for wider treatment areas like the forehead.

Xeomin is sometimes referred to as the “naked injectable” because its formula doesn’t contain any complexing proteins. And while this doesn’t change the effectiveness of the product or the way it works (it’s similar to Botox when measuring unit for unit), the lack of additives in Xeomin mean patients are less likely to develop the antibodies that prevent its desired effect. This makes Xeomin a good option for people who are resistant to Botox and Dysport.

Onset and duration of results

Of course, if you’re considering any type of injectable, you’ll want to know how long you have to wait to see improvement. Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin all provide pretty darn quick results, so whichever one you choose, you’ll see those wrinkles fade within a few days.  But if you’re prepping for a particular event, you should know that Dysport has the most immediate onset time, with visible results within 24 hours. Botox typically takes up to 72 hours, and with Xeomin, it may take up to 4 days.

All three provide results that last 3-4 months on average, though some patients are able to maintain their results for as long as 6 months.

Great results, whichever product you choose!

At San Diego Cosmetic Laser Clinic, we’re proud to provide our patients with a range of products and services that get great results. Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin all work beautifully, and while some patients prefer one over the other, the best results will only come from a skilled and experienced injector. Dr. Parvin Mani has administered thousands of cosmetic injections, helping her patients look and feel gorgeous—and she can do the same for you. If you’re still not sure whether to choose Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin to minimize the appearance of your stubborn dynamic wrinkles, come see us for a consultation. Dr. Mani will listen to your concerns, evaluate your facial characteristics and health history, discuss your options, and come up with a treatment plan that helps restore your youthful appearance—and boost your confidence, too. Give us a call to schedule your consultation today!