Botox vs. Dysport vs. Xeomin: Which Is Right For You?
Alysia O'Brien • January 12, 2026
When you walk into a med spa for the first time, the menu can look a bit like a foreign language. You know you want to smooth out those frustration lines between your eyebrows, but then comes the question:
"Do you prefer Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin?"
At Compass Light Med Spa, we hear this question almost daily. While "Botox" is the Kleenex of the industry—the name everyone uses—it isn't the only option. We offer three distinct, FDA-approved neurotoxins because they each behave slightly differently.
Here is the honest breakdown of Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin so you can decide which one fits your goals.
The Quick Answer
If you don't have time to read the science, here is the cheat sheet:
- Choose Dysport if: You want results fast (2–3 days) or need to treat a large area like the forehead. It spreads slightly more, giving a very smooth, "airbrushed" look.
- Choose Botox if: You are treating very specific, small areas (like crow’s feet or a lip flip) and want to keep the surrounding muscles moving perfectly. It is highly precise.
- Choose Xeomin if: You want a "cleaner" injectable. Xeomin is filtered to remove extra proteins, making it the best choice if you have allergies or feel like Botox "stopped working" for you (resistance).
All three treatments last about 3 to 4 months and have excellent safety profiles.
The Science: How Are They Different?
All three brands are neuromodulators made from botulinum toxin type A. They work exactly the same way: they temporarily block the signal from the nerve to the muscle. When the muscle relaxes, the skin above it smooths out, and wrinkles soften.
Think of them like Pepsi, Coke, and Diet Coke. They are essentially the same product, but they have different "recipes."
1. Botox & Dysport (The "Protected" Toxins)
Both Botox and Dysport have "accessory proteins" surrounding the active molecule.
- Botox carries a heavier protein load. It takes a bit longer to "kick in" (5–7 days) but stays exactly where we put it.
- Dysport has lighter proteins. It penetrates the muscle faster (2–3 days) and diffuses (spreads) further.
2. Xeomin (The "Naked" Toxin)
Xeomin is unique. During manufacturing, it is double-filtered to remove all the accessory proteins. It is pure neurotoxin.
- Why does this matter? Because it lacks those extra proteins, there is less for your immune system to react to. This makes it a favorite for patients who are sensitive or prone to allergies.
What is "Botox Resistance"? (And Why Xeomin Fixes It)
Have you been getting Botox for 10+ years? Some long-term patients find that their treatment eventually stops lasting as long, or stops working entirely.
This is often because your body has developed antibodies to the accessory proteins in Botox or Dysport. Your immune system recognizes the "wrapper," not the medicine itself, and attacks it before it can work.
- Because Xeomin has no wrapper (no accessory proteins), your body doesn't recognize it as a threat.
- If you feel like your results are wearing off too fast, ask us about switching to Xeomin for your next session to "reset" your receptors.
Can You Switch Between Them?
Absolutely. You are not married to one brand. Many of our patients at Compass Light actually get a "hybrid" treatment. We might use Dysport on their forehead to get that smooth, glass-like finish, but use Xeomin or Botox around their eyes for precision.
New to facial aesthetics? Read our Ultimate Guide to Facial Rejuvenation in Cohasset to see how we combine these toxins with Fillers and Sculptra for a full-face refresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Xeomin "cleaner" than Botox?
A: In a scientific sense, yes. Because it lacks the complexing proteins, it is the purest form of the neurotoxin available. This appeals to many of our patients who prefer products with fewer additives.
Q: Does Dysport cost less?
A: Dysport is often priced differently per unit because "1 unit" of Botox/Xeomin is roughly equal to "3 units" of Dysport. However, the total price for the treatment area (e.g., treating your forehead) usually comes out to be very similar across all three brands.
Q: Will I look "frozen"?
A: No. The "frozen" look comes from too much product, not the brand of product. Our providers specialize in natural results—you will still be able to raise your eyebrows and smile; you just won't have the deep wrinkles that come with it.
The Verdict
The "best" neurotoxin is the one that works best for your unique muscle patterns and biology. You don't need to decide before you walk in the door.
At Compass Light Med Spa, we assess your facial anatomy during your consultation. Whether you choose the precision of Botox, the speed of Dysport, or the purity of Xeomin, our goal is the same: to help you look like the most refreshed version of yourself.
Ready to smooth those lines? Click here to book an appointment or consultation.
New to facial aesthetics? Read our Ultimate Guide to Facial Rejuvenation in Cohasset to see how we combine these toxins with Fillers and Sculptra for a full-face refresh.
Self-Love Is the Real Valentine: Investing in Your Skin and Your Confidence
Wondering how often you need to touch up your lips? We break down the timeline of lip filler longevity and how to maintain your results in Cohasset.
Dry winter skin? Meet Skinvive by Juvéderm. Compass Light Med Spa explains how this new micro-droplet treatment hydrates your skin from within for a lasting glow.
Confused between Sculptra and Filler? We explain the difference between "filling" volume and "growing" collagen to help you choose the best anti-aging treatment in Cohasset.
For decades, if you wanted to significantly lift sagging cheeks or fix a jowly jawline, you had one option: surgery. You had to commit to anesthesia, weeks of hiding away to heal, and a permanent change to your face. Today, the treatment innovations have changed and patients have less invasive options. At Compass Light Med Spa, one of our most requested treatments is the "Liquid Facelift." It is the modern answer for patients in Cohasset who want to look refreshed and lifted now , without the downtime or commitment of going under the knife. But what exactly is it? Is it just a lot of Botox? Here is the deep dive into how we use injectable architecture to restore the "Triangle of Youth." What Exactly Is a Liquid Facelift? A Liquid Facelift is not a specific product in a box. It is a customized combination treatment that uses two types of injectables in a single session: Neurotoxins (Botox/Dysport/Xeomin): To relax the upper face and smooth dynamic lines. Dermal Fillers (Restylane/Radiesse): To physically lift and re-inflate the mid and lower face. Think of it like renovating a house. Neurotoxins like Botox, iron out the wrinkles in the curtains. Filler rebuilds the foundation and walls that have started to settle. Need a refresher on the basics? Read our Ultimate Guide to Facial Rejuvenation in Cohasset to learn how these ingredients work. The Anatomy of a Liquid Facelift When we design a Liquid Facelift at Compass Light, we are usually addressing three specific zones to create harmony. Zone 1: The Mid-Face Lift (Cheeks) Aging often starts with volume loss in the cheeks. As the fat pads shrink, the skin above them sags, creating "nasolabial folds" (smile lines) near the mouth. The Fix: We inject a structural filler (like Restylane) deep onto the cheekbone. The Result: This acts like a tent pole, putting the skin back up to its original position. It doesn't just make your cheeks look fuller; it pulls up the lower face, reducing smile lines indirectly. Zone 2: The Lower Face Definition (Jaw & Chin) A weak chin or undefined jawline can make the neck look older than it is. The Fix: We use a firm filler (like Radiesse) to sharpen the jawline angle and project the chin. The Result: A crisp, defined profile that separates your face from your neck. Zone 3: The Polish (Eyes & Forehead) Once the structure is restored, we polish the canvas. The Fix: We use Botox, Xeomin, or Dysport to smooth the forehead and crow's feet. The Result: An open, rested appearance that looks like you just returned from a long vacation. Who Is the Ideal Candidate? The Liquid Facelift is perfect for the "Gap Patient"—someone who notices aging but doesn't have enough loose skin to warrant a surgical neck lift. You are likely a great candidate if: You feel you look "tired" even when you are well-rested. You have noticed your cheeks look flatter than they used to. You want to see results immediately (perhaps for a wedding or reunion). You want to avoid the "wind-blown" look of surgery. The "Fear of Looking Overdone" We know the fear: "I don't want to look like a different person." At Compass Light, we follow a "Less is More" philosophy. A good Liquid Facelift should be undetectable. Your friends shouldn't ask, "Who did your filler?" They should ask, "Have you been sleeping better? You look great." We build the result in layers. We can always add more product later, but our goal is to restore your natural anatomy, not distort it. Frequently Asked Questions Q: How much does a Liquid Facelift cost? A: Because it is customized, pricing varies based on how many syringes of filler are needed. During your consultation, we will provide a customized treatment plan of the exact units and injections you’ll need for the areas being treated. Q: Is the recovery difficult? A: Not at all. We call it a "Lunchtime Lift" for a reason. You can drive yourself home immediately. You may have some swelling or minor bruising for 3–5 days, so we recommend scheduling it at least two weeks before any major social events. Q: How long will it last? A: The Neurotoxin portion will need a refresh in 3–4 months. The Filler portion typically lasts 9 to 18 months, and sometimes longer depending on the product used and the metabolism of the patient . Book An Appointment Today If you are curious about what a Liquid Facelift could do for you, the best first step is a consultation. We will hand you a mirror and show you exactly where a small amount of volume could make a massive difference. Click here to book your appointment today at Compass Light Med Spa
Looking for natural anti-aging in Cohasset? Discover how Compass Light Med Spa combines Botox,Dermal Fillers, and Sculptra to restore volume and smooth lines without surgery.
A Clear Start to the New Year: Discover Laser Treatments at Compass Light
As the temperature drops and the coastal air turns crisp, our skin often starts sending out SOS signals — tightness, flakiness, redness, or that dull, lackluster look that just won’t quit. Winter can be harsh on even the healthiest skin, but the good news is that with a few smart adjustments and some professional care, you can keep your complexion smooth, hydrated, and glowing all season long. At Compass Light Aesthetics & Rejuvenation, we believe that beautiful skin shouldn’t depend on the weather. With the right products, treatments, and a little expert guidance, you can protect your skin’s natural barrier, lock in hydration, and bring back that radiant, just-stepped-out-of-the-spa glow, even in the middle of winter. Why Winter Skin Suffers When temperatures drop, the air loses humidity, and your skin loses moisture. Add indoor heating, hot showers, and brisk winds, and it’s no surprise that your complexion starts to feel dry, sensitive, or uneven. At the center of it all is your moisture barrier, the protective lipid layer that locks in hydration and shields your skin from environmental stress. When that barrier gets compromised, moisture escapes and irritants sneak in, leading to dryness, redness, and dullness. Think of your barrier like the roof of your home; if it’s cracked or damaged, everything underneath becomes vulnerable. Repairing and strengthening that barrier is the key to keeping your skin healthy through the cold months. The Hydration Equation: Layering Smart for Lasting Moisture Hydration isn’t just about drinking more water (though that helps!). It’s about giving your skin the right combination of water-based hydration and oil-based moisture — and applying them in the correct order. A great winter skincare routine looks like this: A gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin. A hydrating serum packed with humectants like hyaluronic acid to pull in moisture. A barrier-strengthening moisturizer to seal it all in. And yes, SPF every day, even when it’s cloudy. At Compass Light, we recommend two standout skincare lines that truly deliver results in winter: Epionce – This botanically based, dermatologist-developed line focuses on repairing and protecting the skin barrier. It’s gentle, clinically proven, and perfect for calming winter irritation while restoring natural softness. Plated - This line marks a dramatic breakthrough in anti-aging as it is the first and only skincare to harness the power of platelet-derived exosomes. This advanced technology unlocks our body’s innate but often dormant ability to transform its appearance and uncover our truest skin health from within. ZO® Skin Health – Known for its science-driven formulations and powerful active ingredients, ZO® offers targeted solutions for dryness, dullness, and uneven tone, helping skin stay resilient through even the harshest weather. These lines are available at Compass Light, and our team can help you choose the right products for your skin type and goals. Winter-Approved Treatments to Reset and Replenish Winter is actually the best time to focus on skin renewal. With less sun exposure and more time indoors, your skin can heal, rebuild, and truly thrive from deeper treatments. Here are our top picks for the season: Hydrafacial – A gentle yet powerful treatment that exfoliates, extracts, and infuses your skin with moisture. It uses vortex technology to cleanse deeply while delivering antioxidants and peptides, leaving your skin instantly smoother, plumper, and glowing. Microneedling or RF Microneedling – These collagen-stimulating treatments strengthen your skin from within, improving texture, fine lines, and elasticity. By creating controlled micro-channels in the skin (and adding heat with RF), they trigger natural healing that firms, tightens, and rejuvenates with long-lasting results. Laser Skin Care – Fall and winter are ideal for laser treatments. With reduced UV exposure, your skin can safely recover as lasers fade pigmentation, smooth texture, and repair summer sun damage. Laser sessions can target discoloration, fine lines, redness, and uneven texture all at once—revealing clearer, brighter, more even skin. IV Hydration Therapy – Don’t forget about internal hydration! IV drips replenish fluids, vitamins, and minerals directly into your bloodstream, giving your skin and body a healthy, hydrated boost from the inside out. This fast-acting therapy supports energy, immunity, and overall skin vibrancy, making it an especially powerful winter pick-me-up. At Compass Light, every treatment plan is personalized to your needs, ensuring your skin receives exactly what it craves this season. Smart Seasonal Swaps for Everyday Glow Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference. Try these winter skincare tweaks to keep your complexion happy between treatments: Use a humidifier at night to restore moisture in the air. Avoid long, hot showers that strip your skin’s natural oils. Swap foaming cleansers for cream or oil-based cleansers that protect the barrier. Layer on a richer moisturizer or hydrating balm before bed. Keep applying SPF daily — yes, even when it’s snowing! If you’re unsure where to start, book a consultation at Compass Light for a personalized winter skin assessment. Alysia and her team are happy to sit and discuss your concerns and goals, provide an evaluation, and outline the treatment options best suited to your skin. Your Winter Glow, Simplified Winter skin doesn’t have to mean dryness, flaking, or dullness. With the right products, treatments, and guidance from the experts at Compass Light Aesthetics & Rejuvenation, you can keep your complexion radiant and resilient no matter what the forecast brings. Because glowing skin shouldn’t be seasonal — it should be your signature look. Compass Light Aesthetics & Rejuvenation in Cohasset, MA, offers a comprehensive range of advanced aesthetic and wellness treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty and optimize your well-being. Led by board-certified nurse practitioner Alysia O’Brien, the spa provides services such as injectables, laser treatments, microneedling, Hydrafacials, and wellness therapies like IV therapy and medical weight loss. Clients can enjoy personalized care in a welcoming environment, with options for private treatments or group spa days. Compass Light also offers memberships and at-home skincare products to support ongoing rejuvenation and self-care.
As the holiday season arrives, the air turns crisp, the South Shore turns festive, and Compass Light Aesthetics & Rejuvenation is glowing brighter than ever. Known for helping clients feel confident and radiant from the inside out, the team is now bringing that same spirit of beauty and balance into your wardrobe. Just in time for the Cohasset Village Holiday Stroll on Saturday, December 13, 2025 (4:30–7:30 p.m.) , Compass Light is unveiling a stunning collection of apparel and accessories that perfectly reflect their coastal, confident, and effortlessly chic vibe. Think timeless pieces, soft textures, and little luxuries that elevate the everyday. These are wardrobe essentials designed for life by the ocean — cozy, sophisticated, and just the right touch of glam. Elevated Everyday: The Compass Light Style If Compass Light had a fashion philosophy, it would be refined simplicity with a coastal twist. The new apparel and accessories line is full of elevated staples, beautiful yet attainable pieces that can take you from morning errands to evening celebrations with ease. You’ll find: Cozy sweaters that wrap you in warmth, perfect for layering over leggings or pairing with your favorite jeans for a coastal coffee run. Soft knits in neutral tones and gentle textures make these sweaters instant favorites, effortlessly chic and endlessly wearable. Beautiful dresses that move effortlessly from day to night — think classic silhouettes, breathable fabrics, and understated elegance. Designed for real life, these dresses flow with you, polished enough for gatherings, easy enough for weekend brunch by the harbor. Fun statement bags and hats that add a touch of personality (and a bit of playfulness) to your winter wardrobe. Whether you’re grabbing a bold tote or topping your look with a wide-brim hat, these pieces bring that confident, sun-kissed style Compass Light is known for. These are not just clothes — they’re confidence pieces. Thoughtfully chosen, beautifully made, and perfectly in tune with the relaxed yet refined Compass Light aesthetic. Sweet Dreams: Pajamas by Ella Alden For those who believe self-care starts with a good night’s sleep (and a little style), Compass Light now carries pajamas by Ella Alden. These dreamy sets combine comfort and polish; soft fabrics, flattering cuts, and subtle details make lounging feel luxurious. Whether you’re curling up with cocoa by the fireplace, wrapping gifts, or indulging in a quiet self-care night, Ella Alden pajamas are designed to make every evening feel a little more special. The Jewelry Edit: Timeless, Modern, and Meaningful Of all the new arrivals, the Agapée jewelry line stands out as something truly exceptional. Agapée, meaning “love” in Ancient Greek, is a Paris-born brand that blends ancient artistry with modern craftsmanship. Each piece pays homage to traditional Mediterranean design — inspired by the shimmer of golden waves, the warmth of sunlight, and the timeless beauty of history. Crafted with care since 2019, these hammered gold pieces are classic, waterproof, and made to last, meaning they won’t tarnish, rust, or change color when exposed to water. You can wear them while swimming, showering, or strolling along the coast, and they’ll stay as stunning as the day you bought them. The collection includes earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, and more, each thoughtfully designed to complement your personal style and transition seamlessly from casual days to elegant evenings. These are timeless accessories meant to be worn, loved, and lived in. Perfectly aligned with Compass Light’s philosophy of effortless beauty and lasting confidence, Agapée jewelry is more than an accessory; it’s a statement of self-expression, artistry, and enduring quality. Celebrate the Season: The Holiday Stroll Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 13th, when Cohasset Village transforms into a twinkling coastal wonderland for the annual Holiday Stroll. From 4:30–7:30 p.m., Compass Light will open its doors to the community, welcoming clients and visitors alike to shop, enjoy refreshments, and celebrate the season. It’s the perfect evening to browse the boutique’s new collection, try on a cozy sweater, find the perfect gift for that special someone, or pick out a piece of Agapée jewelry that catches the candlelight just right. Whether you’re searching for holiday gifts, treating yourself, or simply soaking up the festive spirit, the Compass Light boutique will have something special waiting for you. Stop by and celebrate - because at Compass Light, style is just another way to shine. Compass Light Aesthetics & Rejuvenation in Cohasset, MA, offers a comprehensive range of advanced aesthetic and wellness treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty and optimize your well-being. Led by board-certified nurse practitioner Alysia O’Brien, the spa provides services such as injectables, laser treatments, microneedling, Hydrafacials, and wellness therapies like IV therapy and medical weight loss. Clients can enjoy personalized care in a welcoming environment, with options for private treatments or group spa days. Compass Light also offers memberships and at-home skincare products to support ongoing rejuvenation and self-care.
Ah, summer. The season of beach days, golden tans, and long evenings spent outdoors. While all that sunshine and salty air feels amazing in the moment, our skin often tells a different story come fall. Months of UV exposure, heat, sweat, and sunscreen can leave skin looking dull, dehydrated, and uneven, sometimes with stubborn sunspots or fine lines to prove it. That’s why autumn is the perfect time for a skin reset. With cooler weather, less direct sun, and a return to routines, fall offers the ideal window to repair summer’s damage and prep your skin for the cozy seasons ahead. At Compass Light Aesthetics & Rejuvenation, we specialize in helping you restore your glow with treatments designed to rejuvenate, refresh, and repair, so you can face fall looking luminous and confident. Here’s your guide to the best fall skin reset treatments we offer right here in our beautiful coastal medspa in Cohasset. Laser Skin Care: Fade the Sun’s Footprint If summer left behind freckles, sunspots, or uneven tone, laser skin treatments are your go-to reset button. Our advanced lasers target pigmentation, helping to reduce discoloration and bring back a smoother, more even complexion. The beauty of doing laser treatments in the fall? With shorter days and less sun exposure, your skin can heal without competing against UV rays. Think of it as giving your skin a chance to breathe, repair, and glow again after months of sun-soaked fun. Whether you’re bothered by age spots, redness, or texture changes, our team customizes your treatment to your specific needs, helping to restore that fresh, clear look you’ll love showing off all season long Microneedling + RF Microneedling: Strengthen & Smooth Summer doesn’t just affect the surface of your skin; it can weaken the deeper structure, too. Enter microneedling and its powerful cousin, radiofrequency (RF) microneedling. Microneedling uses tiny micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production, improving fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, and overall texture. RF Microneedling goes a step further by combining those micro-injuries with radiofrequency energy, tightening and rejuvenating deeper layers of the skin. The result? Firmer, smoother skin that feels refreshed and resilient. Think of it as strengthening your skin’s foundation—so it can look its absolute best now and well into the holiday season. Hydrafacial: Deep Clean & Hydrate Not ready for something more intensive? A Hydrafacial is the perfect “welcome to fall” treatment for everyone. This non-invasive facial uses patented technology to cleanse, exfoliate, extract impurities, and infuse your skin with antioxidants and hydration. After months of sunscreen, sweat, and environmental buildup, Hydrafacial works like a reset button, leaving your skin instantly smoother, softer, and glowing. It’s a great standalone treatment for a quick pick-me-up, and it also pairs beautifully with other services like fillers or laser treatments. Best of all? There’s no downtime. You can book a Hydrafacial on your lunch break and head back to work looking fresh, radiant, and ready to take on fall. Chemical Peels: Reveal a Brighter You If you’re serious about reversing visible sun damage, chemical peels are a tried-and-true favorite. By exfoliating away damaged outer layers, peels help fade pigmentation, improve tone and texture, and reveal brighter, healthier skin underneath. Fall is the ideal season for peels because post-treatment skin is more sensitive to UV rays. With cooler weather and shorter days, your skin has the perfect opportunity to heal and thrive. Whether you’re aiming to erase stubborn sunspots or just want an overall refresh, our peels are customized to your goals and skin type for safe, radiant results. IV Hydration: Beauty From the Inside Out Healthy, glowing skin starts beneath the surface. After a summer of heat, travel, and maybe a few extra margaritas, your body (and your skin) may be craving hydration. IV hydration therapy replenishes fluids, vitamins, and minerals directly into your bloodstream for fast, noticeable results. Not only does IV hydration help restore energy and boost immunity, but it also supports skin health, leaving you refreshed from the inside out. Combine this with your topical treatments, and you’ve got a powerhouse duo for true, lasting glow. Medical-Grade Skincare & Memberships Great treatments give you a jumpstart, but keeping that glow takes daily care. Fall is the time to swap lightweight summer moisturizers for richer formulas. Our team at Compass Light can guide you through creating a skincare routine tailored to your unique needs. And if you love consistency (and savings), our VIP Memberships are a fantastic way to stay on track. Memberships make it easy to schedule regular treatments, maintain results, and keep your skin looking its absolute best all year long. The Compass Light Experience Located in the heart of Cohasset Village, Compass Light is more than just a medspa; it’s a serene retreat where expertise meets self-care. From advanced laser treatments to Hydrafacials, Botox, fillers, and IV hydration, every service is designed to bring out your best and help you feel radiant inside and out. Led by our experienced board-certified nurse practitioner Alysia O’Brien, our team focuses on natural results, personalized plans, and a welcoming, coastal-inspired atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re one of our beloved regulars, we’re here to make your fall skin reset a joyful, relaxing experience. Ready for Your Fall Reset? Summer may leave its mark on your skin—but fall is the perfect time to repair, refresh, and renew. With Compass Light’s range of treatments and expert care, your post-summer glow is closer than you think. Book your complimentary consultation today, and let’s create your custom fall skin reset plan. Because glowing skin isn’t just for summer—it’s for every season. Compass Light Aesthetics & Rejuvenation in Cohasset, MA, offers a comprehensive range of advanced aesthetic and wellness treatments designed to enhance your natural beauty and optimize your well-being. Led by board-certified nurse practitioner Alysia O’Brien, the spa provides services such as injectables, laser treatments, microneedling, Hydrafacials, and wellness therapies like IV therapy and medical weight loss. Clients can enjoy personalized care in a welcoming environment, with options for private treatments or group spa days. Compass Light also offers memberships and at-home skincare products to support ongoing rejuvenation and self-care.
