What is botox for frown lines
Frown-line botox is the original cosmetic use of botulinum toxin and the most studied. It targets the glabellar complex — corrugator supercilii, procerus and depressor supercilii. Done well, it leaves natural brow movement and only stops the downward, scowling pull.
What to look for in a doctor
- Medical injector who can demonstrate safe injection points above the orbital rim to avoid eyelid ptosis.
- Dose decided per patient based on muscle bulk and brow position, not a flat 20-unit recipe.
- Knowledge of how to lift a heavy brow using the depressor pattern — and the honesty to refuse treatment if your brow is already low.
Frequently asked
- Will I look frozen?
- No, when correctly dosed. The aim is softer frown lines with retained natural movement. A good injector starts conservative and tops up at 2 weeks if needed.
- Can I prevent frown lines if I don't have them yet?
- Yes — low-dose 'preventative' botox in your late 20s to mid 30s reduces the depth of lines that would otherwise form.
- Will lines come back worse if I stop?
- No. The muscle simply returns to its previous activity. Lines do not rebound harder.
- How long until I can wear makeup?
- 4 hours, applied gently without rubbing.
- Is the result immediate?
- No — it develops over 3–14 days. Book at least 2 weeks before any event.
