Botox vs Dysport vs Xeomin: Differences and Real Cost Compared

By Chris Terry, Botox Aficionado
Updated 2026-06-17

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Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are all botulinum toxin type A injectables that smooth wrinkles the same basic way, but they differ in dosing, how fast they work, and price. Per unit, Dysport is the cheapest but uses about 2.5 to 3 units for every 1 unit of Botox, so the per-treatment cost ends up similar. The best choice usually comes down to your injector's experience and how your body responds.

Quick comparison

	Botox	Dysport	Xeomin
Typical price per unit	$10 to $25	$4 to $8	$9 to $20
Units vs Botox	1	about 2.5 to 3	about 1 to 1
Onset	3 to 5 days	2 to 3 days	3 to 4 days
Spread	Precise	Spreads more	Precise
Duration	3 to 4 months	3 to 4 months	3 to 4 months

Because Dysport uses more units per area, do not compare the per-unit prices directly. Compare the total per-area cost instead.

The real cost difference

For the frown lines between the brows, a Botox treatment might use 20 units at $15 ($300). The equivalent Dysport treatment might use 50 units at $5 ($250). Xeomin lands close to Botox. In practice the three come out within $50 to $100 of each other for the same area, so price alone rarely decides it.

How they differ in practice

Dysport spreads a little more, which can be an advantage for larger areas like the forehead and a slight drawback for precise spots. It also tends to kick in fastest.
Xeomin is a "naked" molecule with no added proteins, which in theory lowers the chance of building resistance over time. Some people who stop responding to Botox switch to Xeomin.
Botox has the longest track record and the most predictable, precise results, which is why it remains the default.

Which should you choose?

Start with whichever your injector uses most, because technique and dosing matter more than the brand. If you find your results fade fast or you suspect resistance, ask about Xeomin. If you want the fastest onset before an event, Dysport is worth discussing. All three are FDA-approved and have similar safety profiles. See the cost guide and safety overview for more.

What about Daxxify and Jeuveau?

Two newer options round out the category. Jeuveau ("Newtox") is dosed roughly 1 to 1 with Botox and is often priced competitively, marketed mainly for frown lines. Daxxify is notable for potentially longer duration, with some patients reporting 6 months, though results vary and it can cost more per treatment. If longevity is your priority and the higher price fits your budget, Daxxify is worth asking about; otherwise the three classics remain the value picks.

Which lasts the longest?

For the traditional three, duration is similar at about 3 to 4 months. Daxxify is the one marketed for longer wear. In practice, your dose and your own metabolism affect duration more than the brand does, so an adequate dose of any of them usually outlasts an under-dose of a "longer-lasting" product.

Switching brands

You can switch between these products freely from one visit to the next; there is no need to "detox" in between. Injectors commonly move patients to Xeomin if they suspect antibody resistance to Botox, since Xeomin lacks the accessory proteins thought to drive resistance. Discuss any history of fading results so your provider can choose accordingly.

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