When you smile, frown, or squint, your facial muscles create tiny creases over time. If you’re noticing these lines becoming more pronounced, you might be wondering: “How many units of BOTOX Cosmetic will I need to refresh my appearance?” The answer depends on your unique features and goals. Below, we cover how BOTOX and similar neuromodulators work, what you can expect during treatment, and how to get natural, personalized results.
How Neuromodulators Work
BOTOX and similar treatments, like Xeomin® and Dysport®, temporarily block the nerve signals that tell the muscles to contract. By relaxing those muscles, they reduce the appearance of existing lines and help prevent deeper creases from forming.
How Many Units Do You Need?
Getting the dosage right is crucial. Too much can create a “frozen” look; too little can leave lines unchanged. This is why it’s important to see a skilled injector who can customize your treatment based on factors like:
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Facial anatomy – Everyone’s bone structure and facial proportions are different. Larger treatment areas or thicker tissues may need more product to achieve noticeable smoothing.
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Muscle strength – Stronger or more active muscles (like those in men or in patients with expressive faces) need more units to relax effectively.
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Depth and location of lines – Deep-set wrinkles or lines in areas that crease frequently often require higher doses than faint, superficial lines.
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Gender and age – Men typically have larger, denser muscles than women, requiring higher doses. Older patients may need more product to soften lines that have been present longer.
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Treatment history – Patients who maintain regular treatments may need fewer units over time since the muscles gradually weaken. First-time patients often require higher initial doses.
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Product used – Different neuromodulators behave slightly differently. For example, Dysport tends to spread more readily, meaning you may need fewer injection points or slightly fewer units compared to BOTOX or Xeomin in certain areas.
Below is a general guide to the most common treatment areas. Your actual dosage will be personalized to your needs.
Common Treatment Areas & Average Units
Around the Eyes (Crow’s Feet)
Fine lines radiating from the corners of your eyes when you smile or squint.
Average units: 5–15
Forehead Lines
Horizontal creases that can make you look stressed or tired.
Average units: 10–30
Between the Eyebrows (Glabellar Lines or “11s”)
Vertical lines from frowning or squinting.
Average units: 10–25
Masseter (Jawline Slimming or Teeth Grinding Relief)
Large jaw muscles that can create a square jaw or contribute to teeth grinding and jaw tension. Treating the masseters can soften the jawline and relieve discomfort.
Average units: 20–50 per side (dosage varies by muscle size and strength)
Neck Bands (Platysmal Bands)
Vertical bands or lines on the neck that can add years to your appearance.
Average units: 25–50
Bunny Lines (Lines Along the Nose)
Small creases across the bridge of your nose when you smile or scrunch your face.
Average units: 5–10
Brow Lift
A subtle lift to open the eye area and create a refreshed look.
Average units: 2–5
How To Maintain Your Results
Most patients enjoy smoother skin for 3 to 6 months, depending on the area treated, the product used, and how quickly your body metabolizes the product. Here’s how to get the most from your investment:
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Stay consistent: Touch-ups help you maintain your BOTOX results and may help extend your longevity over time.
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Protect your skin: Daily sunscreen and good hydration help minimize the formation of new lines and the worsening of existing lines.
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Combine treatments: A comprehensive skincare plan—including medical-grade products—can enhance and prolong your results.
BOTOX FAQ
Can I combine BOTOX with Dysport or Xeomin?
No. These products are not interchangeable in one treatment session. Your injector will select the best product for your needs.
How soon will I see results?
Results typically start to appear in 3 to 5 days, with full results in about 1 to 2 weeks. Due to Dysport’s thinner formulation, it usually comes with a quicker onset of results (usually 2-3 days).
Does the treatment hurt?
Discomfort is minimal, especially as we apply a topical numbing cream before your treatment and administer a cold pack afterward. Most patients describe the injections as quick pinches, and sessions usually take 15 to 30 minutes.
How do I know how many units I need?
A consultation with a qualified injector is the best way to determine the correct dosage for your needs. Your provider will assess your muscles, wrinkles, and goals to recommend the right treatment plan.
Take the Next Step
If you want to see how to achieve excellent facial rejuvenation with BOTOX or one of our other neuromodulators, request a consultation or call us at (859) 277-9435 to schedule an appointment.
This blog post was published in November 2022 and has been updated for 2025.
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