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2026.08.28
What’s the Difference Between Daxify and Relphides? A Doctor’s In-Depth Comparison of the Characteristics, Duration, and Immediate Effects of Long-Lasting Botox
My journey into aesthetic medicine stems from a desire to help enrich and beautify lives beyond simply treating illness. My specialties include hyaluronic acid, Botox, and thread lifts. I provide treatments that enhance each individual's unique qualities and bring out an elegant, natural beauty. For concerns around the eyes that are difficult to improve with dermatology alone, I also perform surgical procedures. By integrating dermatology and surgery, I holistically balance the entire face. With three periods of overseas study, I am also able to provide consultations in English.
"I want the effects of Botox to last longer."
"It's hard to go every 3 to 4 months, so I'd like to keep it to about twice a year."
Botox injections have become a standard part of regular beauty maintenance, used for everything from reducing expression lines to slimming the jawline (for a more defined face). However, with conventional formulations, the effects often last only about 3 to 4 months, and many people find the burden of regular clinic visits and the associated costs to be a concern.
Amid this trend, a new generation of products known as “long-acting Botox” is attracting significant attention, particularly overseas.
A prime example often cited in this context is one that utilizes peptide technology toLasts about 6 months"DAXXIFY®," which made this possibleAnd a ready-to-use liquid formulation developed by Galderma"Relfydess®."
While both are considered “long-acting Botox,” there are clear differences in “when the effects begin (immediate onset),” “formulation stability,” and “suitable treatment sites.”
In this article, a physician will provide a clear explanation of the differences between Daxify and Relphides—based on published clinical trial data and research papers—from the perspectives of formulation design, duration of action, speed of onset, and target sites.
Basic Overview of DAXXIFY® and Relfydess®
First, let’s review the basic specifications of these two long-acting Botox products to understand their background and characteristics.
What is DAXXIFY®?
This is a type A botulinum toxin product (generic name: daxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm) developed by Revance Therapeutics, Inc. of the United States.
This formulation completely eliminates human serum albumin and animal-derived ingredients used in conventional products and incorporates a proprietary synthetic peptide (RTP004) as a stabilizer. It has been approved by the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and is known as a pioneer in “long-acting Botox with effects lasting approximately six months.” Additionally, “Daxxify Glow,” which improves skin texture and radiance at the treatment site through the action of the peptide, is gaining attention overseas.
What is Relfydess®?
This is a new liquid botulinum toxin formulation (generic name: relabotulinumtoxinA) developed by Galderma, a leading manufacturer of aesthetic medical products.
This “ready-to-use” (no preparation or dilution required) liquid formulation eliminates the traditional step of dissolving the powder in saline solution and incorporates the company’s proprietary “PEARL™ Technology.” Approved in Europe and other regions, this is the latest long-acting Botox that combines “long-lasting effects for up to approximately 6 months” with “immediate results that can be felt as early as the very next day.”
[Comparison Chart] Differences Between Dakshify and Lelphides
We've compiled the key specifications you should know when considering long-acting Botox.
| DAXXIFY® | Relfydess® | |
| Developer | Revance Therapeutics (U.S.) | Galderma (Switzerland/Global) |
| Dosage Form | Freeze-dried powder (must be dissolved) | Liquid Formulation (Ready-to-use / No Dilution Required) |
| Stabilization and Manufacturing Technologies | Proprietary Synthetic Peptide (RTP004) | PEARL™ Technology |
| Biologically derived ingredients | Human Serum Albumin—Animal-Free | Albumin-free |
| Onset of Effect (When Does It Start Working?) | 2–3 days later—(peaking in 1–2 weeks) | As soon as the next day (Day 1) to several days |
| Duration of the clinical trial | Median: approximately 24 weeks (about 6 months) | Up to approximately 6 months (READY clinical trial) |
| Dosage Units (Number of Units) | Proprietary standard (labeled as approximately twice the strength of Botox) | Proprietary standard (designed to be similar to the Speywood unit system) |
| Our Greatest Strength | Long-lasting hold and shine thanks to peptide adhesion | Precise dosing with zero dilution error and fast response time |
| Domestic Approval Status | Not Approved (Private Treatment) | Not Approved (Private Treatment) |
"The Four Key Differences," Explained by a Doctor
Although both are classified as “long-lasting Botox,” their key strengths differ significantly.
1. Differences in the speed at which effects take effect: Relfides, which takes effect immediately
・With Lelphides, you’ll start to feel the effects “as early as the next day”:
In the Phase 3 clinical trial (READY-1 trial),As of 24 hours after administration (Day 1), up to 391 TP3T patients reported noticing an improvement in their wrinkles.It has been reported that they did so. This meets the needs of those who say, “I have an important photo shoot, event, or wedding coming up in a few days, but I also want it to last.”Immediate effect...is its greatest strength.
・Dakshifai got off to a normal start:
Just like with traditional Botox, it takes some time before the effects begin to show.2 to 3 days, until it stabilizesAbout 1 to 2 weeksIt will take some time.
2. Differences in Formulation Design: Peptide-Linked vs. Undiluted Liquid
・Dakshify's peptide technology (RTP004):
A positively charged peptide encapsulates the active ingredient, andStrongly binds to the neuromuscular junctionThis ensures that the active ingredients remain firmly in the targeted area, resulting in a stable duration of effect as a long-lasting Botox treatment.
・Lerfides' PEARL™ technology (liquid formulation):
Since the solution is filled into the vials as a uniform liquid from the start, the risks of “inconsistent concentration” and “foaming (protein denaturation)” caused by manual reconstitution are completely eliminated. This ensures a consistently stable drug concentration, enabling precise microinjections down to the millimeter.
3. Dosage Units (Number of Units) and Conversion Principles
We are often asked, “Should I get the same number of units as with previous Botox treatments?” However, the specifications for long-lasting Botox vary depending on the specific formulation.
・Dakshifai: Allergan's BotoxUnit notation approximately doubled(For example, if a treatment area requires 20 units of Botox, the total would be approximately 40 units.)
・Lelfides: Galderma has its own titration settings, and this one alsoYou can't simply convert it to a 1:1 ratio with Botox.。
*Therefore, when providing treatment, rather than focusing solely on the number of units to be administered,How do doctors determine the appropriate dosage based on a patient's muscle mass and range of motion?is extremely important.
4. Considerations Regarding the Risk of Antibody Formation (Resistance)
One of the benefits of choosing long-lasting Botox is that it helps prevent future "resistance" to the treatment.. This formulation excludes the complex proteins (such as human serum albumin) that were included in conventional formulations,Albumin-Free DesignTherefore, even if treatment is continued on a regular basis,Its structure makes it difficult for neutralizing antibodies to form.
Concerns & Body Parts: Which Long-Lasting Botox Is Right for You?
The choice of medication depends on the patient’s concerns and lifestyle.
Who and Which Areas Are Suitable for DAXXIFY®?
・Facial slimming treatment for the jawline (masseter muscle):
If you want to keep large muscles, such as the masseter, firmly toned, the long-lasting effects of Daxi-Fai—which can be maintained with visits to the clinic about twice a year—are ideal.
・For those who would like to reduce the number of clinic visits to 1–2 times a year:
For those who are too busy to schedule maintenance every 3 to 4 months.
・For those seeking to improve expression lines while enhancing skin firmness and radiance (Daxxify Glow):
Thanks to the benefits of peptidesImproved skin texture and tighter poresFor those who want to experience both at the same time.
Who and Which Areas Are Suitable for Relfydess®?
・For those who want to reduce wrinkles quickly before their next event:
Within a few days to one weekFor those with a tight schedule who want to see results.
・Fine expression lines on the forehead, between the eyebrows, and at the outer corners of the eyes:
Because it is a uniform liquid formulation with no uneven dilution, it does not spread too much,The specific muscles you want to target preciselyis suitable for.
・Lip flip (Botox treatment to shorten the philtrum) and gummy smile:
I want to control the movements of the delicate muscles around my mouth naturally and without feeling any discomfort.Minor Design Adjustments。
Pain, Side Effects, and Precautions Specific to Long-Acting Formulations
About Pain During Treatment
The slight prick when the needle is inserted and the sensation of pressure during the injection are essentially the same as with traditional Botox. At our clinic, we use numbing cream, ultra-fine needles, and cooling to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
Side Effects and Risks
・Common symptoms:
Bruising, redness, swelling, and mild headaches may occur, but usuallyA few days to a week...and that's how it settles down.
• The Risk of "Over-Effectiveness" and the Importance of Design:
While long-lasting Botox has the advantage of “lasting for about six months,” if, in the unlikely event that you experience symptoms such as “heavy eyelids (ptosis)” or “stiff facial expressions,”The risk that this unnatural condition will persistmeans.
That is precisely why long-lasting Botox treatments require even more precise anatomical knowledge and injection techniques from the physician than standard Botox treatments.
Post-Treatment Aftercare
・Immediately after the injection, do not rub the treated area vigorously or receive beauty treatments or massages (to prevent the medication from spreading to the surrounding muscles).
・Please refrain from strenuous exercise, long baths, saunas, and excessive alcohol consumption on the day of your appointment.
Bianca Clinic's Approach to "Long-Lasting Botox" Treatment
The introduction of long-lasting Botox has significantly improved patients’ options and convenience. However, at Bianca Clinic, we do not believe that “just because it lasts longer, everyone should receive long-lasting Botox.”
In botulinum toxin treatment, what matters most—more than the type of formulation—is the doctor’s ability to determine “at what depth, into which muscle, and in what quantity” to administer the injection.
- Muscle coordination and asymmetry when making facial expressions
- Skin thickness and degree of sagging
- Is this your first time getting treatment in this area, or have you had it done before?
- "How to Preserve a Natural Expression," as Desired by Patients
After conducting a comprehensive assessment of these factors, we will select from among the standard Allergan Botox Vista, as well as the long-lasting Daxify and Relfides,The Most Aesthetic and Safest Option for PatientsWe would like to propose the following.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which lasts longer, Dakshify or Lelphides?
A. Although clinical data for both indicate a duration of "up to approximately 6 months," their approaches to maintenance differ.
Daxify utilizes proprietary synthetic peptide technology to ensure that the active ingredient remains firmly anchored at the treatment site, resulting in a confirmed duration of effect of approximately 24 weeks (about 6 months) on a median basis. Meanwhile, while Relfides has also demonstrated a duration of up to approximately 6 months in clinical trials, its strength lies in striking a balance between “immediate efficacy starting as early as the next day” and “a duration of approximately 6 months.”
The appropriate formulation depends on whether you prioritize long-lasting effects or want a product that also provides immediate results.
Q. Does Lelphides really start working the very next day?
A. In clinical trials, approximately 39% participants reported noticing an improvement in their wrinkles 24 hours after administration (the following day).
While conventional botulinum toxin formulations take 2 to 3 days to show noticeable results and about 1 to 2 weeks to stabilize, Relfides is a unique liquid formulation that requires no dilution (PEARLTMBecause it utilizes this technology, one of its key features is that it takes effect extremely quickly (as soon as the next day). However, the onset of effects varies from person to person, and depending on the dosage and muscle strength, it may take several days to take effect.
Q. Which treatment is better for reducing the size of the jawline (to achieve a slimmer face)?
A. Daxify is particularly well-suited for keeping large muscles, such as the masseter, small over the long term.
While jaw Botox requires follow-up visits every 3 to 4 months, DaxiFy—which lasts for about 6 months—makes it easier to maintain a defined jawline with just 1 or 2 maintenance treatments per year.
On the other hand, if you want to refine your facial contours in time for a last-minute event or a pre-wedding photo shoot, Relphides—which takes effect quickly—is also an option.
Q. I’ve been getting regular Botox injections so far—is it okay to switch to a different type partway through?
A. That's fine. You can switch treatments as long as you wait the appropriate amount of time (usually 3 to 4 months or more) since your last treatment.
Many patients switch to long-acting Botox because “the effects of previous formulations wear off after about three months” and “they want the effects to last longer.”
However, since the unit specifications and diffusion properties of the solution vary by formulation, the physician will carefully adjust the injection volume after assessing the effectiveness of the previous treatment and the current muscle movement.
Q. Is there any concern that long-acting Botox might stop working in the future (due to the development of resistance)?
A. It is designed to reduce the risk of resistance (antibody formation) compared to conventional formulations. One reason botulinum toxin may become ineffective is that the body produces antibodies against the complex proteins (such as human serum albumin) contained in the formulation.
Since both Daxify and Relfides are formulated to be completely free of albumin, they offer a high level of peace of mind for patients who wish to continue long-term treatment on a regular basis.
Q. If, by any chance, the effect is too strong and looks unnatural, can I reverse it?
A. There is no specific antidote that can immediately and completely reverse the effects of botulinum toxin. That is why we recommend starting with a conservative dose for your first treatment.
Because it acts on the neuromuscular junction, you must wait for the effects to naturally wear off through metabolism. Since long-acting Botox lasts for about six months, there is a risk that any excessive effects will also persist for an extended period.
At Bianca Clinic, to prevent stiffness or unnatural-looking facial expressions, we carefully assess each patient’s facial muscle patterns and any asymmetry between the left and right sides, and perform delicate injections, starting with very small amounts as needed.
Summary: Understand the Differences and Choose the Formula That’s Best for You
DAXXIFY®: "Approximately 6 months of effectiveness" thanks to a proprietary peptideと"Firmness and Radiance." A long-lasting Botox treatment recommended for those who want to reduce the number of clinic visits, as well as for large muscle areas such as the jawline.
Relfydess®: "Results as early as the next day" with e-liquid that requires no dilutionと"Lasting up to about 6 months." This long-lasting Botox treatment is recommended for those seeking quick results or looking to make subtle adjustments to fine expression lines.
For those who have found traditional Botox treatments to be “too short-lived” or “a hassle to keep up with,” long-lasting Botox is a very promising option.
Please come in for a consultation at Bianca Clinic to find out which treatment is best suited to your facial features and concerns. We’ll carefully assess each individual’s bone structure and musculature to recommend a natural and refined result.
References and Official Information (Evidence Links)
DAXXIFY® Clinical Trial Data (SAKURA 1 & 2):
Carruthers JD, et al. DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection has a prolonged duration of response in the treatment of glabellar lines: Pooled data from two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 studies (SAKURA 1 and SAKURA 2). J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020.
Relfydess® Clinical Trial Data (READY-1):
Efficacy and Safety of RelabotulinumtoxinA, a New Ready-to-Use Liquid Formulation of Botulinum Toxin: Results From the READY-1 Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Trial in Glabellar Lines. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2024.
Official Announcement from Relfides Regarding the PEARL™ Technology—Immediate and Long-Lasting Effects:
Galderma Official News: Clinical updates on Galderma’s leading portfolio of neuromodulators further reinforce its leadership in injectable aesthetics (Relfydess
