Botox vs. Dysport: What’s the Real Difference? (And Which One’s Right for You?)

If you’ve ever found yourself staring in the mirror, lifting your forehead and wondering, “Should I just get Botox?” — you’re not alone. But just when you decide to take the plunge, your injector mentions another option: Dysport. Wait a second… are they the same thing? Are we talking Coke vs. Pepsi here, or something totally different? Let’s break down the Botox vs. Dysport debate so you can make an informed and confident choice at your next appointment.

Here’s the truth: Botox® and Dysport® are both forms of botulinum toxin type A — the active ingredient that temporarily relaxes facial muscles to smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Think of them as siblings from the same family but with slightly different personalities. Botox is the original — precise, predictable, and a little more concentrated. Dysport is its breezier cousin — spreads more easily and kicks in a little faster. Both are Health Canada–approved, both are safe when injected by a trained professional, and both deliver that refreshed, rested “I woke up like this” look.

If you’re the impatient type, Dysport might win this round. Some clients notice a visible softening in as little as two to three days, while Botox typically takes around five to seven days to show its effect. By the two-week mark, both will have reached their full potential. The main difference is that Dysport gets you there just a little faster.

Here’s where their personalities really diverge. Dysport tends to spread more easily under the skin, making it great for larger areas like the forehead or crow’s feet, where you want smooth blending and natural movement. Botox, by contrast, stays more localized. It gives injectors tighter control and is often the go-to choice for precision areas like frown lines between the brows or subtle brow shaping. Neither is better — it just depends on what area you’re treating and what kind of result you’re after.

You may have heard that Dysport requires more units than Botox, and that’s technically true — but it doesn’t mean it’s more expensive. The two products are dosed differently, and pricing is adjusted to reflect that. When all is said and done, the cost for a full treatment is usually about the same. Both Botox and Dysport typically last around three to four months, depending on your metabolism, facial movement, and lifestyle factors. Some clients feel Dysport fades slightly faster, others say it lasts longer — it really comes down to individual biology. Either way, consistent treatments over time can help extend longevity and maintain smoother, softer-looking skin.

The truth is, there’s no clear winner — it’s all about your goals, anatomy, and injector’s expertise. If you want pinpoint precision and ultra-targeted correction, Botox might be your best match. If you prefer a softer, more blended result that sets in faster, Dysport could be the way to go. At our Toronto medi spa, we offer both — because your face deserves a customized approach, not a one-size-fits-all solution. During your consultation, we’ll help you choose the right product for your features, muscle movement, and desired look.

Botox and Dysport aren’t rivals — they’re just two pathways to the same destination: smoother skin, fewer lines, and a more confident you. Whether you’re team Botox or team Dysport, both are safe, effective, and quick enough to fit into a lunch break. Book a consultation at our Toronto medi spa and let’s find out which treatment will give you the natural, refreshed look you’re after. Because your face deserves a treatment plan as unique as you are.