Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes
Last Updated: May 2026
Author: Kate, Licensed Medical Aesthetician — First Ave Medical Spa, Vancouver BC
If you are considering wrinkle treatment in Vancouver, you have probably come across three names: Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. All three are Health Canada–approved neuromodulators — injectable treatments that relax facial muscles to smooth lines and prevent new ones from forming. This guide explains how each one works, what makes them different, and how to choose the right option for your goals.
Neuromodulators are purified forms of botulinum toxin type A. When injected into a targeted muscle, they temporarily block the nerve signal that causes that muscle to contract. Without contraction, existing lines soften and new ones stop forming.
In Canada, only three brands of botulinum toxin type A are approved by Health Canada: Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin. All three are available at First Ave Medical Spa in Kitsilano, Vancouver.
Neuromodulators in Vancouver are a good fit for adults who want to:
Most Vancouver clients begin treatments in their late 20s to early 40s, though there is no fixed age. The Canadian Dermatology Association recommends consulting a qualified provider to determine whether injectable treatments are appropriate for your skin type and health history.
All three neuromodulators work the same way at the cellular level — they block acetylcholine, the compound that triggers muscle contraction. The differences come down to formulation, protein composition, and how each product behaves in the tissue.
Botox is the most widely recognised neuromodulator in Canada and has been Health Canada–approved for cosmetic use for decades. It uses botulinum toxin type A combined with complexing proteins.
Results: Visible in 3–7 days, full effect at 2 weeks
Duration: 3–4 months on average
Best for: Forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet, brow lift
Dysport has smaller protein molecules than Botox, which means it diffuses slightly more after injection. This makes it particularly effective for larger treatment areas like wide foreheads and areas with thinner muscles. Dysport was approved by Health Canada in 2013.
Results: Visible in 2–5 days — often faster than Botox
Duration: 3–4 months, sometimes slightly longer
Best for: Forehead lines, crow’s feet, broader treatment areas
Xeomin is the purest of the three. It contains no complexing proteins — only the active botulinum toxin molecule. This means your body does not need to produce antibodies to break down the formula, which may reduce the risk of resistance developing over time.
Results: Visible in 3–7 days
Duration: 3–4 months
Best for: Clients who have developed reduced response to Botox, or those who prefer a cleaner formulation
Neuromodulators can treat a wide range of facial and body concerns. Here are the most common areas treated at First Ave Medical Spa:
| Treatment Area | What It Treats |
|---|---|
| Forehead | Horizontal expression lines |
| Frown lines (glabella) | Vertical lines between the brows |
| Crow’s feet | Lines at the outer corners of the eyes |
| Brow lift | Drooping or heavy brow appearance |
| Bunny lines | Lines across the bridge of the nose |
| Marionette lines | Lines from corners of mouth downward |
| Jaw slimming | Masseter reduction for a softer jawline |
| Hyperhidrosis | Excessive sweating in underarms or palms |
| Neck bands | Vertical platysmal bands on the neck |
Most clients in Vancouver see results lasting 3 to 4 months. Several factors affect longevity:
The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC requires that all injectable treatments in British Columbia be performed or directly supervised by a licensed medical professional. At First Ave Medical Spa, all neuromodulator treatments are physician-directed.
A neuromodulator appointment at First Ave Medical Spa in Kitsilano takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish.
There is no downtime. Most Vancouver clients return to work or daily activities immediately after their appointment.
Neuromodulator pricing in Vancouver is typically quoted per unit. Costs vary based on the number of units required and the treatment area. A full forehead treatment generally requires 20 to 30 units, while crow’s feet may need 10 to 15 units per side.
👉 Contact us for current pricing or book a free consultation to get an accurate unit estimate for your specific goals.
For most Vancouver clients, the choice comes down to personal preference and provider recommendation. Here is a quick guide:
The best way to decide is through a consultation. Your provider at First Ave Medical Spa will assess your facial anatomy, muscle strength, and treatment history before recommending the right product for you.
All three are Health Canada–approved botulinum toxin type A injectables that relax facial muscles to reduce wrinkles. The main differences are protein composition, how quickly they take effect, and how widely they spread after injection. Xeomin is the purest formulation with no additives. Dysport spreads more and may work faster. Botox is the most established option.
Yes. Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are all approved by Health Canada for cosmetic use and have extensive safety records when administered by a qualified provider. Side effects are generally mild and temporary, including slight redness or bruising at the injection site. At First Ave Medical Spa, all treatments are physician-directed.
Most clients see results lasting 3 to 4 months. Longevity depends on the treatment area, the number of units used, your metabolism, and how consistently you maintain your appointments.
Yes. Many Vancouver clients switch between products based on their provider’s recommendation or personal response. Your injector at First Ave Medical Spa can advise whether switching products would benefit your results.
First Ave Medical Spa has been serving Vancouver clients from our Kitsilano location since 2008. Our physician-directed team offers all three Health Canada–approved neuromodulators — Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin — with a focus on natural-looking, personalised results.
👉 Book your free consultation and find out which neuromodulator is right for you.