Neuromodulator treatments are widely used to soften facial lines and create a smoother youthful appearance. Patients often want to know how Botox®, Dysport®, and Xeomin® compare since they all use the same active ingredient and belong to the group known as neuromodulators. These treatments work by interrupting nerve signals that create muscle contractions and this reduces fine lines and wrinkles in areas that show early signs of ageing. To understand how each option differs it helps to start with what injectable neuromodulators actually are.
Injectable neuromodulators use botulinum toxin which comes from the group known as botulinum toxin type A. These treatments reduce facial movements that create expression lines and are commonly used to soften forehead lines, crow’s feet, frown lines, glabellar lines, glabella lines, and other upper facial lines. When used for aesthetic purposes, the goal is to refresh facial appearance while keeping natural facial movements.
Botox® is the most widely recognized neuromodulator and is often used to reduce moderate facial lines. It helps soften facial wrinkles, severe frown lines, and vertical lines. The procedure takes only a few minutes, and the product is injected precisely into the treatment area. One unit of Botox® is commonly used as a reference point when comparing the other options. Results begin to appear within three to four days and can last up to six months depending on the skin and the body’s response.
Dysport® contains the same core ingredient and is known for its ability to diffuse smoothly across the skin. Many patients feel it offers a quicker onset, and some treatment plans may require three units of Dysport® to match the effect of one unit of another product. It is often chosen for lines and crow’s feet, as well as for areas that benefit from broader diffusion. Some patients choose Dysport® because it may present less risk of the body beginning to develop antibodies, although a full medical history always guides the final decision.
Xeomin® contains a purified form of the ingredient known as incobotulinum toxin A. Xeomin®, compared to other options, does not include accessory proteins, which may benefit patients who have reacted to other formulations in the past. It is commonly used to soften facial lines and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while maintaining natural facial expressions. Many patients appreciate that the skin responds gradually as muscle contractions lessen.
| Feature | Botox® | Dysport® | Xeomin® |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Botulinum toxin | Botulinum toxin | Botulinum toxin |
| Formulation | Includes accessory proteins | Includes accessory proteins | Purified with no accessory proteins |
| Onset | Several days | Quicker onset | Similar to Botox® |
| Diffusion | Moderate spread | Wider spread | Controlled spread |
| Longevity | Up to six months | Up to six months | Up to six months |
| Health Canada approval | Long history of Health Canada approval | Health Canada approved | Health Canada approved |
| Unit comparison | One unit | Three units | One unit |
| Best use cases | Targeted lines | Larger areas | Patients who may develop antibodies |
Neuromodulator treatments are considered safe when performed by trained professionals. Patients may feel slight tenderness at the injection site and the most common side effects are temporary. Possible side effects include mild swelling or redness which usually fades quickly. Allergic reactions are rare but possible with any medical procedure. The procedure takes only a few minutes and works gradually as muscle contractions lessen. Full results typically develop over two weeks and last up to six months depending on the treatment area and the muscles involved.
If you want smoother skin and refreshed facial lines, You Derma offers personalized treatment plans using Botox®, Dysport®, and Xeomin®. You can learn more about how these treatments work on our injectable neuromodulators page, or explore our dedicated Botox Ottawa guide for treatment details. When you are ready to book, you can schedule an appointment through our online system at You Derma’s booking page. Book your injectable neuromodulator treatment in Ottawa today, and enjoy natural results that enhance your confidence.

You Derma is a Medical Aesthetics Clinic offering laser hair removal, facial treatments, laser treatments, and cosmetic injectables in Ottawa.
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435 St. Laurent Blvd Suite 204
Ottawa, ON K1K 2Z8
(613) 741-0073