Botox, Dysport & Xeomin: What’s the Difference, and Which One is Right for You?
By HER Aesthetics – Serving Oswego, Aurora, Yorkville, and beyond
Neurotoxins are the magic behind the smooth, youthful glow we all love—but if you’ve ever felt confused trying to choose between Botox®, Dysport®, or Xeomin®, you’re not alone. At HER Aesthetics in Oswego, IL, we help clients from Aurora, Yorkville, Naperville, Plainfield, North Aurora, and Somonauk make confident choices based on their unique goals and anatomy.
While all three neurotoxins are designed to relax facial muscles and soften fine lines, each brand has its own unique background, formulation, and benefits. Let’s break down the differences (and similarities!) so you can feel empowered in your decision.
First, What Is a Neurotoxin?
A neurotoxin is a purified protein that works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to targeted muscles. This reduces movement in those areas—minimizing the repetitive muscle contractions that cause dynamic wrinkles, such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines. (Think: movement lines, not the deeper ones that stick around when your face is resting.)
Despite the dramatic name, neurotoxins used in aesthetics are not “toxic” in the dangerous sense. In fact, they’ve been studied for decades and used safely in medical treatments long before they became a beauty staple. When administered by a licensed, trained injector in the correct dosage, they are both effective and very safe.
The History & Science Behind the Brands
Botox®
The OG of the industry, Botox was FDA-approved for cosmetic use in 2002. It's made by Allergan (now part of AbbVie) and has the longest track record of clinical safety and efficacy. Botox contains a protective protein shell around the active ingredient, which some believe can lead to a higher likelihood of building resistance with long-term use—but it’s still the most widely known and trusted brand on the market.
Dysport®
Approved in 2009, Dysport is made by Ipsen and has a slightly smaller molecular structure. This allows it to spread a bit more quickly and broadly under the skin, making it a great choice for larger areas like the forehead. Dysport tends to kick in a little faster—often within 2-3 days compared to 5-7 days for Botox.
Xeomin®
The "clean" option. Approved in 2010, Xeomin is made by Merz and contains no accessory proteins—just the purified neurotoxin. This minimalist formula is often referred to as a “naked injectable,” which may reduce the chance of your body building up resistance over time. It works similarly to Botox, but appeals to clients looking for a less processed option.
Similarities & Differences at a Glance
FDA Approved (Cosmetic):
Botox: Yes (2002)
Dysport: Yes (2009)
Xeomin: Yes (2010)
Onset Time:
Botox: 5–7 days
Dysport: 2–3 days
Xeomin: 3–4 days
Duration:
All last approximately 3–4 months
Spread:
Botox: Moderate
Dysport: Wider spread (great for larger areas like the forehead)
Xeomin: Minimal spread (good for precision)
Formulation:
Botox: Includes protective protein shell
Dysport: Includes protective protein shell
Xeomin: Purified—no accessory proteins (“naked injectable”)
Are Neurotoxins Safe?
Yes—when administered properly by a licensed and trained provider, neurotoxins are extremely safe. They're FDA-approved for a reason: they go through years of research, clinical trials, and regulation. Unfortunately, there are counterfeit or non-approved versions out there that are not held to the same safety or quality standards. These can be ineffective—or even dangerous.
Always make sure your injector:
Can show proof of training and certification
Uses FDA-approved neurotoxins (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin)
Opens the vial in front of you or shows the brand label
Works in a clean, licensed medical setting
Why Choose Brand-Name Neurotoxins?
You wouldn’t want knockoff medicine—so why risk it with your face? FDA-approved brands like Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are backed by decades of science and safety. They’re tested, regulated, and trusted by medical professionals worldwide. Using a non-FDA-approved tox might be cheaper, but it’s not worth the risk to your health—or your results.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
That’s where we come in! At HER Aesthetics, we personalize every treatment for our clients in Oswego, Naperville, Aurora, Yorkville, Plainfield, North Aurora, and Somonauk. Whether you’re drawn to the fast-acting power of Dysport, the simplicity of Xeomin, or the familiarity of Botox—we’re here to guide you.
It’s kind of like choosing your favorite ice cream flavor—there’s no wrong choice, just what works best for you.
Ready to smooth things over?
Book your consultation today and let’s find the right “flavor” for you.
HER Aesthetics | Oswego, IL - Conveniently located near Aurora, Naperville, Yorkville & Plainfield
Expert Injector | FDA-Approved Tox | Personalized Care for Every Face