All four are FDA-approved botulinum toxin type A products. The differences are subtle but real — they affect onset speed, diffusion area, and longevity. The right choice depends on the area being treated and your past experience.
This guide covers each brand, when each is preferred, and the practical implications for treatment planning.
Botox (Allergan)
The original. Onset: 3–7 days. Full effect: 14 days. Duration: 3–4 months. Most predictable, most studied. The default choice when you don't have a specific reason to choose another.
Botox is the global gold standard with the longest safety history. Most clinical trials use Botox as the comparison product.
Dysport (Galderma)
Onset: 2–3 days (faster). Diffuses more (good for large areas like the forehead, less precise for fine areas). Duration: similar to Botox.
Dysport's faster onset matters for patients with time-sensitive events. The diffusion characteristic makes it useful for treating broad muscle groups but riskier for precise areas around the eyes.
Xeomin (Merz)
Naked toxin (no protein complex), theoretically lower antibody risk for patients who become resistant to Botox over time. Onset: 5–7 days. Duration: ~3 months.
Xeomin is the right choice for patients who've been on Botox for years and notice diminishing effect — a sign of antibody buildup against the protein complex.
Jeuveau (Evolus)
Marketed as the "newtox." Pure aesthetic indication (not approved for medical uses like migraine). Onset and duration similar to Botox. Often slightly cheaper in the US.
Jeuveau's value proposition is price competition with Botox. Clinical effect is essentially equivalent for aesthetic indications.
Which to ask for
- First time: Botox
- Want fast onset (event in 4 days): Dysport
- Resistant to Botox: Xeomin
- Cost-sensitive in the US: Jeuveau
- Treating broad forehead: Dysport
- Treating crow's feet (precise): Botox or Xeomin
At Elyzea, we use FDA-equivalent neuromodulators globally available. Full-face: S/800 (~US$229). Detailed toxin guide.
Conversion factors
Different brands use different unit systems. Approximate conversions:
- 1 unit Botox ≈ 1 unit Xeomin ≈ 1 unit Jeuveau
- 1 unit Botox ≈ 2.5-3 units Dysport (Speywood units)
Don't compare per-unit prices across brands without converting.
Side effects (similar across brands)
- Mild bruising at injection sites (5-15 % of patients)
- Transient headache day-of
- Eyelid drooping if injected too close to levator (rare)
- Asymmetric expression (correctible at 2-week follow-up)
Allergic reactions extremely rare. Long-term safety profile excellent across brands.
Frequently asked questions
Will I notice the difference between brands?
Most patients can't distinguish properly-dosed brands. The differences are subtle.
What about Daxxify (longer-lasting toxin)?
Newer FDA-approved option (2023) marketed as 6+ month duration. Available in some US clinics; not yet widely in Lima. Independent evidence on duration is mixed.
Can I switch brands?
Yes. Switching is common, especially for resistant patients moving to Xeomin.
How is brand chosen at Elyzea?
Consultation discusses your goals + treatment area + history. Most reputable global toxin brands available.
Are these the same as bargain online injectables?
No. Buying toxin from non-medical sources is dangerous. Always work with a licensed clinic.
What about masseter Botox for jaw clenching?
Same toxin, different injection site (masseter muscle). Reduces jaw clenching and slims square jaws.
Can I get toxin during chemotherapy?
Generally no. Postpone until after treatment.
Bottom line
Botox is the safe default. Dysport for speed. Xeomin for resistance. Jeuveau for price. The differences are subtle for most patients. At Elyzea, brand selection is part of the consultation conversation. Lima full-face flat-rate at ~US$229 captures the savings regardless of brand.