Botox vs Dysport vs Xeomin: Differences and Real Cost

Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and the newer Daxxify are all forms of botulinum toxin type A, and all four smooth lines by relaxing the muscles underneath. They are more alike than different, but the differences matter for how they are dosed and what a full treatment costs.

Botox

The original and most widely used option, made by Allergan. It is precise and predictable, which makes it a favorite for small, detailed areas like crow's feet and lip flips. Per-unit pricing typically runs $10 to $20.

Dysport

Dysport tends to spread a little more from each injection point, which can make it efficient for larger areas such as the forehead. It often kicks in faster, sometimes within 2 to 3 days. Importantly, Dysport units are not equivalent to Botox units; it takes roughly 2.5 to 3 Dysport units to match 1 Botox unit. Its per-unit price looks lower (around $4 to $8) precisely because you need more units.

Xeomin

Xeomin is sometimes called the "naked" toxin because it has the complexing proteins removed. In theory that can reduce the chance of building resistance over time. It is dosed close to 1 to 1 with Botox, and per-unit pricing is similar, often $9 to $16.

Daxxify

Daxxify is a rising newer neurotoxin and the most recent botulinum toxin type A to reach the market. Its draw is duration: in trials many patients held results around 6 months, longer than the 3 to 4 months typical of Botox. It is dosed differently again, so its per-unit price is not comparable to Botox on a one-to-one basis. Because it can last longer, fewer sessions per year may offset a higher sticker price for some patients. It is still newer, so ask your provider about their experience with it.

Comparing the real cost

Because the products are dosed differently, comparing per-unit prices alone is misleading. The honest comparison is the total cost to treat the same area, and how often you will need to repeat it. A "cheap" $5 per unit Dysport quote can cost about the same as Botox once you account for the extra units needed.

On a per-treatment basis Dysport often comes out cheapest once units are matched, while Daxxify tends to last longest. To compare on a like-for-like basis, estimate your treatment with our Botox cost calculator, then ask each provider what the total would be in their product of choice.

Onset and how they feel

All four take effect over days rather than instantly, but the timing differs slightly. Dysport often shows the earliest movement, sometimes within 2 to 3 days, while Botox and Xeomin usually settle in over 7 to 14 days. Daxxify lands in a similar window but is prized for how long it then holds. None of these are interchangeable unit for unit, so if you switch brands your provider recalculates the dose for the new product.

Which should you choose?

• Want a proven, precise result: Botox is the safe default.
• Treating a large area or want faster onset: Dysport can be a good fit.
• Worried about building resistance over years of treatment: Xeomin is worth discussing.
• Want the longest stretch between sessions: ask about Daxxify.

Frequently asked questions

Which lasts the longest? Daxxify, with results often around 6 months, compared with 3 to 4 months for Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin.

Which costs the least per treatment? Once units are matched to the same effect, Dysport is frequently the most economical, though it depends on your provider's pricing.

Can I switch brands between sessions? Yes. Many patients try more than one. Your provider will adjust the unit count for the product they use.

Bottom line

All four work well, and the right choice usually comes down to your injector's experience and the area being treated. Compare total cost per area and how often you will repeat it, not the per-unit sticker price, and pick the licensed provider you trust most.

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• How Long Does Botox Last? And How to Make It Last Longer
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• How Much Does Botox Cost? Full Price Guide by Area and Unit (2026)
• What Is Botox and How Does It Work?
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• Botox Aftercare: What Not to Do After Botox
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