Botox, produced by Allergan and Dysport, produced by Medicis, contain similar components of the botulinum toxin, which controls muscle movement when injected between the brows and diminishes glabellar lines and wrinkles. On top of this cosmetic use, botulinum toxin-based products have been used to treat excessive sweating and migraines and now the makers are taking the next steps in making their products widely available to those averse to injections.

So far, the news is good for consumers. The second phase in trials for topical Botox, which was completed in October, was successful. While no market date has been set for the topical version of Botox, nor for its Medicis-produced rival Dysport, needle-shy individuals can still test the possible effects of Botox by using Allergan’s Treatment Visualizer.

To learn more about injectable treatments as well as other skin care options, we encourage you to join the mailing list of Owensboro based cosmetic surgeon Dr. Edds and to call to schedule a consultation.

Although Medicis had planned to rebrand the product as ‘Reloxin’, they ultimately decided to retain its original European name, Dysport. (pronounced Diss-port).

Botox and Dysport both perform the same basic function – neuromuscular blocking to relax and prevent wrinkles. Dysport is said to be more diluted than Botox and perhaps, more cost effective for providers.

The April 30th announcement coincided with a 3 percent drop in Allergan’s (maker of Botox) shares, as Medicis shares jumped 14 percent. Analysts and industry professionals expect Dysport to carry a slightly lower price tag than Botox, and speculate that it may capture 30 percent of the market.