Published Date: 7/2/26
Author: Alexandra Denson, PA-C
Introduction
Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify are popular, non-surgical treatments designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These neuromodulators help patients achieve a smoother, more refreshed look while maintaining natural facial expressions.
How It Works
Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify temporarily relax targeted facial muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles—those formed from repeated expressions like frowning or squinting. By limiting muscle movement, the skin appears smoother and more youthful. Neuromodulators smooth skin by relaxing the tiny facial muscles that repeatedly crease the skin. When those muscles cannot contract as strongly, the skin gets a chance to rest, making lines and wrinkles appear softer and smoother. Think of it like ironing a shirt. Every time certain facial muscles move, they fold the skin. Neuromodulators reduce those repetitive folds, helping the skin look smoother.
Common Treatment Areas
- Glabella/Frown lines (between the brows)
- Lateral Canthal lines (Crow’s feet)
- Frontalis/Forehead limes
- [Optional: Neck bands, brow lift, lip flip, masseters, bunny lines, chin, DAOs]
The Procedure
Treatments are quick, typically completed within 10–20 minutes. We apply ice packs beforehand to gently numb the area and make the injections more comfortable. Most patients describe the sensation as a small pinch. There is little to no downtime, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Results and Maintenance
Initial results may appear within a few days, and the results continue to improve, with full results visible around 10–14 days. Effects typically last 3-4 months, and regular maintenance helps prolong results. While most of my patients come in every 3-4 months to maintain their results, every neuromodulator treatment can provide preventative anti-aging benefits by reducing the repetitive muscle movements that contribute to wrinkle formation.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid rubbing the area for 24 hours
- No lying down/Stay upright for 4 hours post-treatment
- Avoid strenuous exercise the same day to decrease the risk of bruising
- No facials or massages the day you get your injections
FAQs
Will I look frozen?
When performed correctly, results look natural and allow for normal expressions.
How often should I get treated?
Every 3-4 months is average, however we will customize your treatment plan and timeline depending on your goals.
Is it safe?
Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify are FDA-approved and widely used.
Provider Note:
My injection philosophy is simple: honor my patient’s natural features through intentional enhancements. My goal is to accentuate what genetics gave you, while softening what time gave you. I strive to help my patients feel like the best version of themselves!
Some of my favorite areas to treat are the glabella (frown lines) and lateral canthal lines (crow’s feet)! These are 2 areas that create an eye-opening effect by lifting the eyebrows medially and laterally. It’s amazing how subtle enhancements like lifting the eyebrows can make a person feel refreshed and more awake! I joke with my patients and say “if I can lift your brows, I can lift your mood!”
One thing I also mention is that bruising is always possible any time we place a needle through the skin. Even though neuromodulator injections use a very small needle, there are tiny blood vessels under the skin that injectors cannot see. While we always exercise caution when injecting, if the needle happens to disturb one of those vessels, a bruise can develop. I tell patients that bruising is more about luck than technique. While bruising can never be completely prevented, there are a few things patients can avoid beforehand to reduce the risk. If medically appropriate, try to avoid the following 3-5 days before treatment:
- Aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen
- Vitamin E, Garlic, turmeric, fish oil/omega-3 supplements
- Excess alcohol (24-48 hours before treatment)
