Quick answer: In Botox vs Dysport, both are FDA-approved botulinum toxin type A products that relax muscles to soften wrinkles. Botox is onabotulinumtoxinA by Allergan; Dysport is abobotulinumtoxinA by Ipsen, distributed for aesthetics by Galderma. Dysport may start working slightly sooner and spread a little more, while Botox is very precise. Results and duration are similar for most people.
Key takeaways
- Both relax muscles to soften expression lines.
- Units are not the same: Dysport doses are counted differently from Botox doses.
- Dysport may spread a little more, which can suit larger areas.
- Botox is often chosen for small, precise areas.
- Both usually last about three to four months on the face.
What is Botox?
Botox is the brand name for onabotulinumtoxinA, made by Allergan Aesthetics. It was first FDA-approved for cosmetic use in 2002 for frown lines, and later for crow's feet and forehead lines. It works by blocking the signal from nerves to muscles, so the muscle relaxes and the skin above it smooths out. It is the most studied product of its kind.
What is Dysport?
Dysport is abobotulinumtoxinA, made by Ipsen and marketed for aesthetic use by Galderma. It was FDA-approved for frown lines in 2009. It works in the same way as Botox but has a different formulation and protein structure. Because of this, the units used for Dysport are different from Botox units, and the two cannot be compared one-to-one.
How do Botox and Dysport compare?
- Active ingredient: both botulinum toxin type A, with different formulations.
- Units: not interchangeable; Dysport uses a higher number of units for a similar effect.
- Onset: Dysport may start in about two to three days; Botox often in about three to five days.
- Spread: Dysport may diffuse slightly more; Botox stays more localised.
- Duration: both usually about three to four months for expression lines.
- Approval: both FDA-approved for frown lines.
Which is better for small, precise areas?
Botox is often preferred for small, delicate areas where precision matters, such as around the eyes, the brows or the lip area. Because it tends to stay where it is placed, it can help avoid unwanted effects on nearby muscles.
Which is better for larger areas?
Dysport's slightly wider spread can be helpful for larger areas such as the forehead or for many small lines across a broad zone. Some doctors also like it for people who want to see results a little faster.
What about Korean botulinum toxins?
Korea has several locally made botulinum toxin products approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. They are widely used for jaw slimming, skin Botox and wrinkles. Your doctor can explain which brands the clinic uses and why.
What is the downtime?
Downtime is minimal for both. Small injection marks or tiny bumps usually fade within an hour. Small bruises are possible. Avoid lying down, pressing the area and hard exercise for a few hours after treatment.
How can you make results last longer?
Follow your doctor's aftercare advice, protect your skin from the sun and avoid very frequent touch-ups, which can encourage resistance in rare cases. Regular treatments at sensible intervals usually keep lines softer over time.
Is it safe?
Both are safe in trained hands. Possible side effects include bruising, headache and, rarely, a drooping brow or eyelid if the product spreads into the wrong muscle. These usually improve within weeks. Tell your doctor about pregnancy, breastfeeding or neuromuscular conditions.
How to choose
Korea treated about 2.01 million foreign patients in 2025, and around 63% came for dermatology, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Botulinum toxin is one of the most common treatments for visitors. The brand matters less than an accurate dose and correct placement by an experienced doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dysport stronger than Botox?
No. The units are just measured differently. Correct dosing gives similar results.
Which lasts longer?
Both usually last about three to four months; some studies suggest small differences.
Can I switch between brands?
Yes. Your doctor will adjust the dose for the product used.
When will I see results?
Usually within a few days, with full effect around two weeks.
Sources
- Ministry of Health and Welfare, Republic of Korea – 2025 foreign patient statistics (press release, 2026).
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration – approval information (Botox Cosmetic; Dysport).
- Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Republic of Korea – botulinum toxin product approval information.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Results vary between individuals. Please consult a qualified physician before any treatment.
