Your Guide to Neuromodulators: Botox, Dysport, Daxxify, and More!

In the world of advanced aesthetics, there’s no bigger name than Botox. Everyone’s heard of it. It's like the Taylor Swift of the Medspa world. But what you might not know is that there are other drugs that work in a similar way. Botox is just one of several neuromodulators–substances derived from the botulism toxin that temporarily paralyze muscles. While they all work in basically the same way, there are some differences between them. How fast they start to work, how long results last, and what areas they are FDA approved to treat can vary. Keep reading for a complete rundown on the five neuromodulators you’re likely to see available at a MedSpa near you. 

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Botox

Drug name: onabotulinumtoxinA

What makes it unique: Botox is the industry standard. It was first discovered way back in the 1970s for treating vision problems, when the doctors noticed that injecting it around the eyes got rid of wrinkles, too. It was FDA approved for cosmetic use in 2002, and of all the neuromodulators listed here, Botox is the most widely studied and the best understood. 

What it’s best for: Botox is the best all-rounder, good for everything from wrinkles to excessive sweating. It’s available at virtually every MedSpa. 

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Dysport

Drug name: abobotulinumtoxinA

What makes it unique: Dysport disperses from the injection site more than standard Botox. The upside of this is that it takes effect faster–usually in just a couple of days. It’s a more diluted product than Botox–you’ll need at least twice the number of Botox units to get the same effect with Dysport. But some people feel that Dysport looks more natural than Botox when injected between the eyebrows. 

What it’s best for: forehead wrinkles and frown lines.

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Jeuveau

Drug name: prabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs

What makes it unique: Jeuveau markets itself as 95% pure, which some people feel produces more natural looking results. The slight difference in formulation from Botox may also help it absorb better. It works in a similar way to other neuromodulators. Sometimes Jeuveau is a little less expensive per unit than Botox. Whether you prefer Jeuveau or Botox will come down to personal preference.

What it’s best for: forehead wrinkles, frown lines, and crow’s feet. 

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Xeomin

Drug name: incobotulinumtoxinA

What makes it unique: Xeomin is just pure, raw incobotulinumtoxinA. It contains no additives. This means it’s less likely that your body will develop antibodies against it, which could make it more effective over time. If you happen to have an allergy to the preservatives in other neuromodulators (which is super rare but possible), Xeomin might be right for you. 

What it’s best for: If you have certain allergies, or you want a formula without additives. It’s most commonly used for glabellar lines and forehead wrinkles.  

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Daxxify

Drug name: daxibotulinumtoxinA-Ianm

What makes it unique: Daxxify is the newest neuromodulator to hit the market, becoming FDA approved in 2023. It starts working super fast–in as little as two days on average. It also lasts longer than other drugs of its kind, for up to nine months (typically it lasts about six months). This is thanks to a novel peptide that helps to stabilize the active ingredient. 

What it’s best for: glabellar lines! This drug is very new to the market, so exploration of other uses is still being explored.

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Where to get Botox, Daxxify, or Dysport near you

Whether you’re interested in trying one of these neuromodulators to get rid of wrinkles, or you’ve been getting Botox for years, we have great news: you can book your appointment in seconds on the Upkeep app. We partner with the best MedSpas in your area so you can book with confidence. Download Upkeep today on the App Store or Google Play to kiss wrinkles goodbye!

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