If you’ve ever considered anti-wrinkle treatments, you’ve probably heard of botulinum toxin, often known simply as “Botox” (though there are several brands). It’s one of the most popular, effective, and widely trusted aesthetic treatments for reducing expression lines and giving the face a fresher, more relaxed appearance.
But what exactly does it do? Where is it injected? And why is that precise placement so crucial?
Let’s get down to the details.
How Botulinum Toxin Works
Botulinum toxin is a purified protein used safely and medically for decades to relax targeted muscles. When it comes to aesthetics, its purpose is simple: to soften the muscle activity that causes dynamic wrinkles—those lines that deepen when you frown, smile, squint, or raise your eyebrows.
By gently relaxing specific muscles, botulinum toxin smooths existing lines and helps prevent new ones from forming, all while preserving your natural expressions when expertly done.
Why Injection Sites Matter
Botulinum toxin is not a “one-size-fits-all” treatment. It requires a deep understanding of facial anatomy to ensure it enhances your natural features rather than freezing them unnaturally.
Precise placement is essential to:
- Target the right muscles without affecting surrounding areas.
- Achieve balanced, symmetrical results.
- Maintain natural movement while softening lines.
- Minimise the risk of side effects.
That is why choosing an experienced, medically trained practitioner is non-negotiable.
Common Injection Sites and Their Benefits
Here is a helpful overview of the most popular areas treated with botulinum toxin:
| Injection Site | What It Targets | Result |
| Glabella (Frown Lines) | Vertical lines between eyebrows | Smoother, more relaxed appearance; reduces “angry” look |
| Forehead Lines | Horizontal lines across the forehead | Softer, more youthful forehead with reduced creasing |
| Crow’s Feet | Fine lines at the outer corners of the eyes | Brightens and softens the eye area while preserving smiles |
| Brow Lift | Muscles pulling brows downward | Opens up the eye area for a refreshed, lifted look |
| Bunny Lines | Lines on the nose bridge when scrunching | Smoother nose appearance |
| Gummy Smile | Excessive gum showing when smiling | Creates a softer, more balanced smile |
| Chin Dimples | Pebbled or “orange peel” chin texture | Smoother, more refined chin surface |
| Jawline/ Masseter Muscles | Enlarged jaw muscles from clenching/grinding | Slimmer, softer jawline; relief from tension or grinding |
| Neck Bands (Platysmal Bands) | Vertical neck lines | Smoother, more youthful neck appearance |
Customising Treatment to You
Not everyone needs or wants every site treated. The best results come from a personalised plan that considers your facial anatomy, expressions, and goals.
For example:
- You might want to soften forehead lines but keep expressive brows.
- You might prioritise crow’s feet while leaving smile lines untouched.
- You may wish to address a strong jawline from clenching for both aesthetic and comfort reasons.
A thorough consultation with your practitioner is essential to discuss what matters most to you.
What to Expect During Treatment
Botulinum toxin injections are quick, typically 10–20 minutes, with minimal discomfort. Fine needles are used for precise placement, and no anaesthesia is usually required, though a topical numbing cream can be used if preferred.
You can generally return to normal activities immediately, though you will be advised to avoid heavy exercise, alcohol, or lying flat for a few hours. Results begin to appear in 3–14 days, with smoother skin lasting 3–4 months on average.
Aftercare Tips for Best Results
To maximise results and reduce side effects:
| Aftercare Step | Why It Matters |
| Avoid rubbing or massaging | Prevents the product from moving to unwanted areas |
| Stay upright for 4 hours | Supports precise placement |
| Avoid heavy exercise, alcohol for 24h | Reduces bruising, swelling |
| Use gentle skincare | Keeps skin calm and clean |
| Follow practitioner guidance | Personalised advice ensures the best results |
Safety First: Choose the Right Practitioner
Botulinum toxin is a medical procedure, and its safety and quality depend on the person administering it. Always choose a practitioner who is:
- Medically qualified (doctor, dentist, or nurse).
- Specifically trained in aesthetic medicine.
- Experienced with facial anatomy and injection techniques.
- Committed to personalised, natural-looking results.
Practitioners certified by Acquisition Aesthetics have undergone rigorous, hands-on training to deliver treatments safely and effectively. This certification is a mark of excellence you can trust.
Final Thoughts: Enhance, Don’t Erase
Botulinum toxin isn’t about eliminating every line or freezing your expressions. It’s about softening unwanted lines while preserving the movements that make you, you.
When planned carefully, these small injections can have a big impact on your confidence, helping you look rested, approachable, and true to yourself.
If you are curious about botulinum toxin or want to explore what treatment might look like for you, seek out a qualified, caring practitioner who will listen to your goals and guide you safely.
Become a Model Patient
Ready to begin your aesthetic journey? Explore our treatments on our website or call the Acquisition Aesthetics team at 0203 514 8757 to discuss becoming a model patient.
