When it comes to smoothing out fine lines and dynamic wrinkles, injectable neuromodulators have become a top choice for those looking to rejuvenate their appearance without surgery. Among the most popular options are Jeuveau and Dysport, two FDA-approved botulinum toxin type A injectables designed to reduce expression lines. Both products are highly effective at temporarily relaxing facial muscles, but when deciding between Jeuveau vs Dysport, it’s essential to understand how they differ in formulation, onset, longevity, and ideal uses.
This comprehensive comparison will break down their similarities, differences, performance, safety, and how to choose the right product for your aesthetic goals.
Both Jeuveau and Dysport belong to the class of injectable neuromodulators derived from botulinum toxin type A. They work by blocking nerve signals that cause targeted facial muscles to contract, thereby reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles like frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead creases. While they perform similar functions, their formulation and behavior within the skin vary, influencing onset time, spread, and longevity.
Jeuveau was developed exclusively for cosmetic purposes, making it one of the newer aesthetic neuromodulators on the market. It’s designed to specifically treat glabellar lines but is frequently used off-label for other facial areas.
Dysport has been in use for both therapeutic and cosmetic applications for years. It’s approved to treat moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows and is also used off-label for areas like forehead lines, jaw slimming, and neck bands.
While both products are FDA-approved for glabellar lines, their performance characteristics reveal notable differences that can influence treatment outcomes.
Jeuveau features a highly purified botulinum toxin formulation optimized for cosmetic use. It has a precise diffusion profile, meaning it typically remains localized to the injection area, offering targeted wrinkle smoothing with controlled spread.
Dysport has a slightly different molecular structure, which causes it to spread more readily within the tissue. This characteristic can be beneficial when treating larger areas, like the forehead or crow’s feet, requiring broader coverage with fewer injection points.
Jeuveau generally begins to show visible effects within 2 to 3 days, with full results developing by 7 days. This fast onset makes it a popular choice for clients seeking quick improvements before events or social engagements.
Dysport is known for its rapid action, with many clients noticing improvements within 1 to 2 days, and full results visible in 5 to 7 days. For those seeking almost immediate wrinkle softening, Dysport may hold a slight advantage.
Jeuveau typically delivers results that last about 3 to 4 months before muscle movement gradually returns and repeat treatment is recommended.
Dysport provides a comparable duration of 3 to 4 months for most patients, although some individuals report results lasting slightly longer, up to 5 months, depending on metabolism, dosage, and treatment area.
One significant difference between Jeuveau vs Dysport is how dosing units are measured and applied. Dysport units are not interchangeable with those of Jeuveau or other neuromodulators. Generally, it takes about 2.5 to 3 units of Dysport to equal 1 unit of Jeuveau or other comparable products. This means pricing, unit requirements, and dosing strategies differ based on the product being used.
Both injectables excel at treating dynamic facial lines, though certain facial areas may respond better to one product over the other based on diffusion characteristics.
Jeuveau is often preferred for:
Glabellar (frown) lines
Crow’s feet
Forehead lines
Bunny lines (nose wrinkles)
Lip lines and lip flip
Chin dimpling
Dysport is frequently selected for:
Larger forehead treatment areas
Glabellar lines with stronger muscle activity
Crow’s feet with broader diffusion needs
Jawline slimming
Neck bands
Both Jeuveau and Dysport have well-established safety profiles when administered by experienced professionals. Common temporary side effects may include:
Mild swelling or redness at injection sites
Temporary bruising
Headache
Flu-like symptoms
Slight asymmetry or eyelid droop (rare and temporary)
Severe reactions are exceedingly rare when administered in recommended doses. Neither product is suitable for individuals with known allergies to botulinum toxin or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
In clinical practice, both injectables deliver results lasting approximately 3 to 4 months, though individual experiences vary. Some clients report that Dysport’s effects, particularly in larger muscle groups, can extend to 5 months before requiring a touch-up. However, the difference in longevity is typically modest and not a primary deciding factor for most clients.
Pricing for wrinkle relaxers is calculated per unit, and because Dysport requires more units per area than Jeuveau, it can appear more expensive upfront. However, when factoring in dosage equivalence and the number of treatments needed annually, the total yearly cost is generally comparable.
Typical average pricing:
Jeuveau: $10–$14 per unit
Dysport: $4–$6 per unit (requires more units per treatment area)
Consulting a licensed provider ensures accurate, personalized pricing based on your anatomy, goals, and the product selected.
Choosing between Jeuveau vs Dysport depends on several personal factors, including:
Desired onset speed
Target treatment areas
Preference for broader diffusion or localized effect
Previous experience with injectables
Budget and treatment frequency comfort
Jeuveau may be ideal for those seeking a precise, fast-acting option with minimal spread, while Dysport suits individuals who prefer rapid results and effective coverage in larger or stronger muscle groups.
Some experienced injectors customize wrinkle treatments by using different neuromodulators in various areas of the face. For example, Jeuveau might be used for the glabella and lips, while Dysport is chosen for the forehead and crow’s feet. Combining both can optimize outcomes based on muscle behavior, diffusion needs, and desired longevity.
Q1: Which product works faster, Jeuveau or Dysport?
A: Dysport typically takes effect within 1–2 days, slightly faster than Jeuveau, which starts working in about 2–3 days.
Q2: Is Dysport stronger than Jeuveau?
A: Not necessarily. Dysport’s broader spread makes it seem stronger in larger areas, but unit for unit, they deliver comparable muscle relaxation when properly dosed.
Q3: How long do results from Jeuveau vs Dysport last?
A: Both last about 3–4 months, though Dysport may stretch to 5 months for some people, especially in larger or stronger muscles.
Q4: Can I switch from Dysport to Jeuveau?
A: Yes, it’s safe to alternate between wrinkle relaxers as long as you wait for the previous treatment to wear off and consult with an experienced injector.
Q5: Are there any long-term risks with either product?
A: No long-term adverse effects have been identified when these neuromodulators are used appropriately. Long-term, consistent use may result in a weakened muscle over time, which can actually help in reducing future wrinkle formation.
When comparing Jeuveau vs Dysport, both are excellent choices for smoothing dynamic facial lines with minimal downtime and natural-looking results. The key differences lie in onset time, diffusion pattern, and dosing strategy. Jeuveau’s precision and fast results appeal to clients seeking targeted wrinkle correction, while Dysport’s broad diffusion and slightly quicker action make it a great option for larger or stronger muscle areas.
The best wrinkle relaxer for you depends on your personal aesthetic preferences, anatomy, and how you’d like your results to appear and feel. An in-depth consultation with a skilled aesthetic provider will help tailor the right treatment plan for your face and lifestyle.
