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Should You Try Letybo Instead of Botox? What You Need to Know

June 24, 2025
Written by
Dr. Dylan Cahill, MD

If you’re deciding between Letybo and Botox or just hearing about Letybo for the first time, it helps to start with a quick overview. Both are neuromodulators that work by temporarily relaxing targeted muscles to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. While Botox Cosmetic is the original brand with a long safety track record in the U.S., Letybo is a newer alternative that’s quickly gaining attention for its lower cost and similar effects.

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Letybo vs Botox Quick Verdict

Category Letybo Botox Cosmetic
FDA Approval (US) 2024 2002
Years in Use (Global) 9 years in Korea and other countries Over 20 years in the U.S. and globally
Made By Hugel (South Korea) Allergan Aesthetics (AbbVie)
Active Ingredient LetibotulinumtoxinA OnabotulinumtoxinA
Treatment Use FDA approved for glabellar (frown) lines FDA approved for forehead, crow’s feet, glabella, and platysma (neck) bands
Onset Time 2 to 3 days 3 to 5 days
Duration 3 to 4 months 3 to 4 months
Downtime Minimal Minimal
Cost May be slightly lower than Botox May be slightly higher, depending on provider
Alle Points Eligible No Yes

Letybo vs Botox: Do the results look and feel the same?

How They Relax Muscles

Both Letybo and Botox use different forms of purified botulinum toxin A. They work by blocking signals from nerves to muscles, which leads to smoother skin and a reduction in dynamic wrinkles. The experience with both injectables often feels very similar in treatment and final effect.

How Fast You’ll See Results

Clinical trials showed visible improvement with Letybo in as little as two to three days, with peak results around one to two weeks, very close to Botox’s 3-5 days onset. Both tend to last for about three to four months, with studies showing no significant difference in duration between the two.

What The Latest Studies Say

Phase III trials for Letybo confirmed it was non-inferior to Botox in reducing glabellar (frown) lines, with similar patient satisfaction and response rates. Safety profiles were also comparable, with no new safety concerns noted.

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Letybo vs Botox: What to Expect on Treatment Day

How to Prep: Questions, Tips, and What to Avoid

Before your appointment, talk with your provider about your goals, any medical conditions, and whether you have had Botox or other neuromodulators before. You may be advised to avoid alcohol, blood thinners, or certain supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, or ginkgo in the days leading up to treatment, as they can increase the risk of bruising. Whether you are getting Letybo or Botox, the same prep steps apply.

What It’s Like During the Injection

The treatment process is nearly identical for both Letybo and Botox. After cleaning the area, your injector will use a very fine needle to deliver small amounts of product into specific facial muscles. The entire session usually takes under 15 minutes. Most patients describe the feeling as quick pinches rather than pain, and there’s minimal downtime.

Tips for Staying Comfortable (Even if You Hate Needles)

If you’re nervous, let your provider know. There are simple ways to help you feel more at ease. Some use cold packs or numbing cream before the injection, and others offer distraction techniques to help you relax. With both Botox and Letybo, choosing a skilled injector makes all the difference in ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.

Are There Different Risks or Side Effects?

Both Letybo and Botox are well-studied and considered safe when used by qualified injectors, but like all injectables, they can come with side effects. Most reactions are mild and temporary, though it’s important to know what’s normal and when to reach out to your provider.

The Most Common Reactions (and When to Call Your Provider)

With either treatment, you might notice minor redness, swelling, or small bruises at the injection site. Some people experience a headache or tightness in the treated area for a day or two. These reactions usually fade quickly and don’t require treatment. If swelling gets worse, pain increases, or you see any unusual symptoms, it’s best to call your provider just to be safe.

Serious Side Effects Are Rare, But Real

Though uncommon, both Botox and Letybo can cause issues like drooping eyelids, uneven results, or difficulty swallowing if injected improperly or in high doses. These reactions are usually related to incorrect placement or dose and are far less likely when working with a skilled injector.

Who Shouldn’t Get These Treatments?

Botox and Letybo aren’t recommended for anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or for those with certain neuromuscular conditions like myasthenia gravis. Always review your full health history with your provider to make sure you’re a good candidate for treatment.

Is Letybo Cheaper or More Expensive Than Botox?

Pricing between Letybo and Botox varies depending on where you go, who’s injecting, and how the practice has positioned the product. On a per-unit basis, both Letybo and Botox typically fall in the $10 to $16 range. Some clinics may offer Letybo at a lower price point as part of a new product launch or introductory promotion, especially if they’re encouraging clients to try it instead of their usual injectable.

That said, lower pricing doesn’t always mean better value. Experienced injectors at high-end practices often charge toward the higher end of that range due to their expertise and patient demand. The total cost will also depend on how many units are needed for your treatment area and whether you’re combining services. In the long run, if Letybo’s results last just as long for you as Botox, then either product could offer similar value. The best choice usually comes down to personal preference and provider recommendation.

Letybo vs Botox: Which One is Right for You?

If you’re trying to decide between Letybo and Botox, it helps to think about your treatment goals, budget, and how your skin responds to injectables.

Matching the Right Option to Your Skin and Budget

For most people, both Letybo and Botox can provide similar results when it comes to smoothing expression lines and relaxing facial muscles. If you’ve had success with Botox but are open to a different option, Letybo might be worth considering, especially if your provider recommends it based on your muscle strength, treatment area, or even current pricing. Some clients find one product feels a little softer or kicks in faster, but results are often comparable. Your injector can guide you based on what works best for your skin, especially if you’ve built up some resistance or just want to explore new options.

When to Wait or Choose Something Else

Not everyone needs to rush into switching products. If you’re getting consistent, natural-looking results from Botox and your provider doesn’t see a clinical reason to change, there’s no need to fix what isn’t broken. On the other hand, if you’re not seeing the longevity you used to, or you’re curious about something newer, Letybo could be a safe and easy alternative. Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neuromuscular conditions should avoid both products for now.

Can I Switch from Botox to Letybo Safely?

Yes, switching between Botox and Letybo is considered safe. The dosing units are not always identical across brands, so your provider will adjust accordingly. If you’re used to a certain number of Botox units for your forehead or crow’s feet, don’t be surprised if the Letybo dose is slightly different. The technique, dilution, and injection sites may stay the same, but small adjustments help ensure consistent results. Most people make the switch without any issues.

Can You Combine Botox or Letybo With Other Treatments?

You don’t have to choose between injectables and other treatments. Many providers recommend combining neuromodulators like Botox or Letybo with additional services to enhance your results and address multiple skin concerns at once.

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Using Botox or Letybo With Dermal Fillers

Botox and Letybo relax muscles that cause wrinkles, while fillers restore volume that’s been lost over time. They work well together because they treat different signs of aging. For example, you might smooth forehead lines with Botox or Letybo and add filler in the cheeks or lips to restore a fuller look. These treatments are often done on the same day or scheduled close together for the best overall balance.

Stacking With Microneedling or Laser for Better Results

Procedures like microneedling and laser resurfacing improve skin tone, texture, and collagen production. When combined with Botox or Letybo, they can help your skin not only look smoother but actually become healthier over time. Your provider may schedule these treatments a few days or weeks apart depending on your skin type and goals. Pairing them correctly can lead to longer-lasting, more natural-looking results.

Final thoughts

Both Botox and Letybo are effective tools for softening lines and refreshing your appearance. Letybo is a newly FDA-approved neuromodulator in the U.S. as of 2024, but it’s been widely used in Asia for years with strong results and safety data. While it offers a similar experience to Botox, some patients may prefer it based on availability, price, or how their body responds. Choosing between Letybo and Botox often comes down to personal goals and your injector’s expertise. Both can be part of a broader treatment plan that includes skincare, fillers, and other services tailored to help you look and feel your best.

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FAQs

1. How is Letybo different than Botox?

Letybo and Botox are both botulinum toxin type A products used to smooth dynamic wrinkles, but they are made by different companies and may have slight differences in formulation and manufacturing. Letybo is newer to the U.S. market and originates from South Korea, while Botox has been used in the U.S. for over 20 years.

2. Does Letybo last longer?

Current data shows that Letybo has a similar duration of effect to Botox, typically lasting about 3 to 4 months. Some patients report subtle differences, but clinical trials show comparable longevity.

3. Is Letybo FDA approved?

Yes, Letybo received FDA approval in 2024 for the treatment of glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows). It is now being introduced to U.S. clinics under the same regulatory standards as other neuromodulators.

4. How long does Letybo take to kick in?

Most patients start noticing results from Letybo within 2 to 3 days, with full effect visible by two weeks. This is slightly sooner but similar to what patients typically experience with Botox.

5. Is Letybo safe?

Yes, Letybo has undergone clinical trials to meet FDA safety and efficacy standards. Like all injectables, it should be administered by a trained medical provider to ensure proper technique and minimize risks.

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Dr. Dylan Cahill, MD

Dr. Dylan Cahill is the co-owner of ZENA Aesthetics & Wellness, where he leads the practice in offering advanced non-surgical aesthetics and wellness services. As a graduate of Harvard Medical School, Dylan combines his knowledge of longevity science with a passion for personalized skincare and innovative treatments. He manages a team of skilled professionals dedicated to delivering personalized care and exceptional outcomes. His expertise spans medical spa treatments, anti-aging therapies, and strategic growth in the health and wellness industry.

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