Comparing BOTOX®, DAXXIFY®, Dysport®, and XEOMIN®

Neurotoxins

Cosmetic neurotoxins are injectable solutions made with a neurotoxin known as botulinum toxin type A. This type of botulinum toxin blocks nerve impulses to facial muscles, relaxing dynamic wrinkles—those formed by frowning, squinting, and other facial expressions—thereby smoothing them. Botulinum toxin type A is better known through the brand names that use it for cosmetic neurotoxin solutions, a group of drugs called neuromodulators.

In simple terms, these are substances derived from a purified form of botulinum toxin. Although neuromodulators are made from a toxin, they are safe and reliable when done by a qualified practitioner, only affecting the muscle into which it was injected. Neurotoxin treatments have become popular due to high patient satisfaction and excellent safety, regardless of the brand.

How it Works

The neurotoxin will be carefully injected into the targeted area, and the procedure takes less than five minutes.

The recovery time is minimal, and applying an ice pack to the treated area for five to ten minutes can help with discomfort. After treatment, it's fine to immediately resume normal activities. Overly vigorous exercise and excessive rubbing of the treated area should be avoided to prevent the solution from migrating beyond the targeted area.

Side effects are rare and mild, and may include light bruising in the injection area, redness, minor swelling, numbness, and pain. Results typically begin to appear within days, and full results appear within two weeks. On average, results last for 3-4 months, but regularly scheduled injections can prolong lasting results.

Another potential side effect is the development of resistance to neurotoxins. This occurs when the body forms antibodies that block the treatment's effects. Over time, this immune response can make neurotoxin treatments less effective—or even ineffective—after two or three sessions. While uncommon, this resistance is more likely with repeated, high-dose treatments or when using neurotoxins that contain stabilizing proteins.

Differences Between Brands

BOTOX®

BOTOX® is the most well-known neurotoxin brand and the most widely used neuromodulator in the world. BOTOX®, short for Botulinum Toxin, was the first neuromodulator to receive FDA approval for cosmetic use in 2002. Its active ingredient, OnabotulinumtoxinA, has been used for decades in both medical and aesthetic applications. BOTOX® is most commonly used to treat forehead lines, frown lines (glabellar lines), neck bands, chin dimpling, jawline slimming, crow's feet on the corner of the eyes, and bunny lines on the nose.

The effects of BOTOX® typically last 3-4 months, though this can vary depending on the individual and the treatment area. Its long-standing presence in the market has made it the most recognized brand among neuromodulators, and it is often used as a generic term for all botulinum toxin treatments.

DAXXIFY®

The newest addition to the neuromodulator family, DAXXIFY® (DaxibotulinumtoxinA), received FDA approval in 2022. What sets DAXXIFY® apart is its innovative peptide technology, which allows for longer-lasting results. DAXXIFY® offers results that last 6–9 months—significantly longer than other neuromodulators, so scheduled touch-ups don’t have to happen as often, making it more convenient for people who have busy schedules.

DYSPORT®

Dysport® (AbobotulinumtoxinA) entered the U.S. market in 2009 as an alternative to BOTOX®. While it functions similarly to all other brands, Dysport tends to diffuse more, which makes it better suited to larger treatment areas (such as the forehead) and has a faster onset (results within 2-3 days). The effects of Dysport® may last slightly longer than BOTOX® for similar reasons, but for smaller treatments, precise injection technique is needed to avoid affecting unintended muscles.

XEOMIN®

Approved by the FDA in 2010, XEOMIN® (IncobotulinumtoxinA) is often referred to as the “naked” injectable because it contains only the pure form of botulinum toxin A, without any additives or complexing proteins. This unique characteristic offers several potential benefits, such as a reduced risk of developing antibodies that could make the treatment less effective over time, and can be an ideal option for patients who have developed resistance to other neuromodulators (most notably BOTOX®). XEOMIN® typically lasts 3-4 months, similar to BOTOX®. It's most popular for treating frown lines between the eyebrows, though it’s used in other areas as well.

Final Comparisons

Onset of Action: Dysport® often shows the fastest results, usually within 2–3 days, while BOTOX®, DAXXIFY®, and XEOMIN® typically take 3–5 days.

Duration of Effects: DAXXIFY® has effects lasting up to 6-9 months, while BOTOX®, Dysport®, and XEOMIN® typically last 3-4 months.

Spread (Diffusion): Dysport® tends to diffuse more widely, which can be beneficial for larger treatment areas. BOTOX®, XEOMIN®, and DAXXIFY® typically have more localized effects, allowing for greater precision in smaller areas.

Possibility of Neurotoxin Resistance: XEOMIN®, being a “pure” form of the toxin, may have a lower risk of antibody formation—meaning touch-up appointments may require lower doses or stay effective longer. Other brands include complexing proteins to stabilize the toxin, but in some cases, these proteins may trigger antibody formation, potentially reducing the treatment’s long-term effectiveness.

As you can see, each brand offers distinct benefits depending on your goals, lifestyle, and treatment history. Neurotoxin treatments should always be performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner to minimize risks and ensure optimal results. These treatments are not recommended for individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neuromuscular disorders. Always consult with a qualified provider before beginning any injectable treatment.

Beautyfluff offers Dysport® and XEOMIN® to help adults smooth wrinkles and restore a more youthful appearance with safe, effective neurotoxin treatments.

Book a consultation with us today to find out which neuromodulator is right for you! Injectable Consultation

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