At Self Skin Studio in Wilmington, NC, treatments like Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify are among the most frequently requested options for smoothing wrinkles and softening expression lines. These neuromodulators offer a non-surgical way to help prevent or reduce signs of aging by targeting the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles. If you're curious about how long the results last or how each option differs, this post breaks down what you need to know before choosing the right treatment for your goals.
What Are Injectables and How Do They Treat Wrinkles?
Injectables like Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify are neuromodulators—treatments derived from botulinum toxin type A that temporarily relax the muscles responsible for expression lines. These treatments are designed to soften wrinkles caused by repetitive movements like frowning, squinting, and raising the eyebrows. By interrupting the signal between nerves and muscles, neuromodulators reduce the movement that leads to visible lines, leaving skin smoother and more youthful-looking (1).
What are Dynamic vs. Static Wrinkles?
Dynamic wrinkles are those that form due to muscle movement—think forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines. These typically appear when you're making facial expressions and are the primary target of Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify. Static wrinkles, on the other hand, are lines that have become etched into the skin over time, even when the face is at rest. While injectables help prevent dynamic wrinkles from turning static, combining them with collagen-stimulating treatments like microneedling or skincare can enhance results (2).
Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify: What’s the Difference?
Active Ingredients and Formulas
All three treatments—Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify—contain botulinum toxin type A as their active ingredient. However, they differ in their protein structures and stabilizers. Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) has been used the longest and is known for its consistent, precise results. Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) spreads more easily, making it ideal for larger areas like the forehead. Daxxify (daxxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm) uses a unique peptide exchange technology that may increase its duration of action (6).
FDA Approvals
All three neuromodulators—Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify—are FDA-approved, but for slightly different indications.
Botox was first approved by the FDA in 2002 for cosmetic use, specifically for glabellar lines (the "11s" between the eyebrows). Over time, approvals expanded to include forehead lines, lateral canthal lines (crow’s feet), and in 2024, for platysma bands—vertical neck bands that become more prominent with age (3). Botox is also FDA-approved for several medical uses, including chronic migraines, hyperhidrosis, overactive bladder, and more.
Dysport received FDA approval in 2009 for the treatment of glabellar lines and is commonly used off-label for other facial areas like forehead lines and crow’s feet due to its diffusion properties (5).
Daxxify, the newest of the three, was FDA-approved in 2022 for the temporary improvement of glabellar lines in adults. It is notable for its longer-lasting effects compared to Botox and Dysport (6).
What to Expect from Treatment
Procedure Overview
The treatment process is simple and typically takes 15–30 minutes. After a consultation to determine dosage and placement, your provider will cleanse the treatment area and use a fine needle to inject small amounts of the neuromodulator into the target muscles. Most patients report minimal discomfort thanks to the tiny needle and optional vibration tools or numbing (7).
Downtime and Aftercare
There’s minimal downtime with all three treatments. You may experience mild redness, swelling, or small bumps at the injection sites, which typically subside within a few hours. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise, lying flat, or rubbing the area for at least four hours post-treatment to ensure optimal results (3).
When You’ll See Results
Botox usually begins to show results within 3–5 days, with full effects at two weeks. Dysport often kicks in faster, within 3-4 days, while Daxxify may take 3–4 days for visible improvement. However, Daxxify’s standout feature is its longevity—clinical trials have shown results may last up to 6 months or more, compared to 3–4 months for Botox and Dysport (5). Look at our Botox results, here.
References:
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2023). Botulinum toxins: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/fillers/botulinum-toxins
- Carruthers, J. D., & Carruthers, A. (2003). The evolution of botulinum toxin type A for cosmetic use. Dermatologic Surgery, 29(5), 476–480.
- FDA. (2023). Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify product approvals. https://www.fda.gov
- Allergan. (2023). Botox® [Prescribing Information]. https://www.allergan.com
- Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals. (2023). Dysport® [Prescribing Information]. https://www.dysportusa.com
- Revance Therapeutics. (2023). Daxxify® [Prescribing Information]. https://www.daxxify.com
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2023). Botulinum Toxin. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/botulinum-toxin
Curious about botox in Wilmington, NC
Peer Reviewed by Chelsea Delgado, RN
Chelsea brings nearly seven years of experience in Medical Aesthetics, specializing in injectable and laser treatments. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Chelsea began her nursing career with a focus on Aesthetic Medicine and quickly realized her passion for helping others feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.
