All About Botox and Dysport
We’ve all heard of it at some point. Botox is a procedure so many people, both men and women, swear by as their secret to feeling confident and aging well. But what exactly is it? How does it work? What should you expect after you get it?
Here’s our beginners guide to Botox, including facts, figures, and helpful tips on what to expect when you go in and following treatment.
A Brief History
It may surprise you to know that Botox was discovered by accident! Originally, the Botulinium toxin was used as a treatment for cross-eye. In 1987 Dr. Carruthers began treating patients with Botulinium to treat blepharospam. Not only didn’t their eye conditions improve, but their wrinkles, too! Thus, Botox as a solution to wrinkles was born.
1. Botox is a neurotoxin.
What you may not know right off the bat is that Botox is a diluted form of botulinum toxin, a naturally occurring neurotoxin. This neurotoxin is injected via needle directly into facial muscles, helping to relax the face by suppressing nerve impulses to the prescribed areas. The primary cause of wrinkles is repeated use of muscles in a specific way over a period of years. Botox keeps you from making those facial expressions as frequently, helping to reverse and slow the cosmetic aging process.
2. Botox is a brand name.
Just like Klenex, Botox is a brand name that has been applied to an entire field of products. Another popular neurotoxin is Dysport. Dysport is derived from the same toxin as Botox and provides similar results to Botox to soften wrinkles.
3. Botox and Dysport: What’s the Difference?
Botox and Dysport vary in several ways, including dosage, molecular size, and onset. Dysport is dosed at about 1/3 of the unit Botox is dosed at. Thus, 60 units of Dysport does not equal 60 units of Botox. Dysport also has a smaller molecule size than Botox. This allows Disport to diffuse quicker and cover more area with less injections. The onset for Dysport is more immediate. Full results for Dysport appear with 24 hours, whereas Botox can take up to 72 hours for results to be completely realized. Neither treatment is better or worse; often, it comes down to preference and physician recommendation depending on desired treatment and results. Both Botox and Dysport are offered at Allure. Schedule your consultation today.
4. Where can you get botox?
There are many places on the face that you can use Botox and Dysport to treat wrinkles and fine lines. The most common places are the forehead, brows, chin, and around the eyes.
5. Botox and Dysport aren’t permanent solutions.
It’s nice to think that we’ve finally found the magical fountain of youth. And while we’re definitely one step closer, Botox and Dysport results don’t last forever. Results with Botox last between three to six months, while Dysport lasts around four. Often, after a year of ongoing treatment, patients may be able to go longer between sessions, since the muscles are more accustomed to being regularly relaxed.
6. It’s for both men and women.
Contrary to polular belief, Botox and Dysport injections are frequently used by both men and women. Since aging effects us all, it only make sense that the solutions we have to curbing it can be used by anyone!
7. It might feel weird (and that’s okay!)
As you might expect, having a neurotoxin injecting into the face may come with some interesting new feelings. While discomfort isn’t common, it is common to feel like your face is “stuck” and to feel tightness immediately after injection and in the days and week to follow.
Botox and Dysport are a great solution to wrinkles and fine lines. Our team here at Allure would love to answer any questions you may have about these procedures. Contact us today to get started!