A wrinkle in the skin is typically formed perpendicular to a contracting muscle located directly beneath it. For example, the muscle in the forehead is a vertical muscle, and when it contracts (such as when you raise your eyebrows), the lines that form (wrinkles) will be horizontal.

Likewise, the two muscles that are responsible for the frown lines are positioned slightly horizontally between the eyebrows, so when they contract, the frown lines appear vertical- the ‘number 11’ that many of us see develop between our brows.

Botox is injected into the facial muscle and blocks the nerve impulse that causes the muscle to contract. The muscle activity that causes the frown lines is reduced and the wrinkle on the overlying skin is released – this is because without a contracting muscle beneath it, the skin has a difficult time wrinkling.

Botox is particularly effective in relieving the frown lines between the brows (glabellar lines) which when left unchecked can make us look a bit cross and have a very ageing effect. Injection in this area also has the added benefit of raising the brow slightly; lifting the skin over the eye giving the appearance of looking well-rested and awake while combatting the ageing effects of gravity (most women notice the skin over their eyes starts to sag-very noticeable whilst applying eye makeup).

Skilled botox administration should always look natural and leave patients looking their best; not startled or frozen! To book a consultation with Dr. Lisa Fay at Cosmetic Doctor, call 01 685 3100