What is Botox and Dysport?

Botulinum toxin is derived from a bacterium and manufactured into a formula safe for injection into muscles. This injection is primarily used on facial muscles to relax them and alleviate unwanted wrinkles. The exact mechanism of botulinum toxin is to block cell signals preventing muscle contraction, creating relaxation and temporary paralysis. Typical injection sites include the forehead, around the eyes, around the mouth, and in the neck. This procedure is done in the office setting and generally takes no longer than 15 minutes for full treatment.

Botox is the original formulation of botulinum toxin and has been available for decades to consumers. Dysport is an alternative formulation of the same toxin more recently made available to licensed practitioners. Dysport is a smaller protein structure in the formula and takes effect in a slightly quicker fashion.