Relfydess vs Dysport: What's the Difference?

By Alex Donald, Registered Nurse | 15 August 2026

With the arrival of Relfydess in New Zealand, many clients are asking how it compares to Dysport — the anti-wrinkle injectable they may already be familiar with. Both are effective treatments for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but there are important differences in formulation, onset, and duration that may influence which option is right for you.

What Are Anti-Wrinkle Injectables?

Anti-wrinkle injectables work by temporarily relaxing targeted facial muscles responsible for expression lines. By reducing the repetitive muscle contractions that cause dynamic wrinkles — such as frown lines, crow's feet, and forehead lines — these treatments soften existing lines and help prevent new ones from forming.

Both Dysport and Relfydess are prescription medicines containing botulinum toxin type A, but they use different formulations of the toxin that result in different clinical characteristics.

Dysport: The Established Option

Dysport contains abobotulinumtoxinA and has been used in appearance medicine for many years. At Embrace Cosmetics, Dysport is priced at $6 per unit, making it a cost-effective option. Onset typically begins within 2-3 days, with full results visible after about 7-14 days. Results generally last 3-4 months.

Relfydess: The New Generation

Relfydess contains relabotulinumtoxinA and is the newest anti-wrinkle injectable approved by Medsafe in New Zealand. One of its key innovations is a ready-to-use liquid formulation — the first of its kind among neuromodulators — which eliminates the need for reconstitution before injection, allowing for precise, consistent dosing.

At Embrace Cosmetics, Relfydess is priced at $8 per unit. Many clients notice visible softening within 24-48 hours — faster than Dysport — with results lasting up to 4.5-5 months.

Key Differences at a Glance

Which Is Right for You?

The choice between Dysport and Relfydess depends on your individual goals, budget, and treatment history. During your consultation, I'll assess your facial anatomy, discuss your concerns, and recommend the option that best suits your needs. Some clients prefer Dysport for its lower per-unit cost, while others choose Relfydess for its faster onset and longer-lasting results.

It's worth noting that the total cost of treatment depends on the number of units required, which varies by individual and treatment area. A higher per-unit price doesn't always mean a higher total cost — it depends on how many units you need.

Read more: Relfydess treatment page | Anti-wrinkle injections overview | Full pricing