Neurotoxins 101: Where They're Placed and What Each Area Treats

Neurotoxins are one of the most popular aesthetic treatments for a reason - they're quick, effective, and require little to no downtime. But many patients don't realize just how customizable these treatments are.

Strategic placement matters. Where neurotoxins are injected determines not just what lines are softened, but how your overall facial expression is balanced and refreshed.

Here's a breakdown of the most common treatment areas - and what each one does.

Forehead Lines

Horizontal forehead lines form from raising your eyebrows over time.

What it does: Softens forehead lines while maintaining natural brow movement when dosed appropriately.

Goal: Smoother looking skin without looking frozen.

Frown Lines (The "11s")

The vertical lines between your eyebrows are often called "11 lines."

What it does: Relaxes the muscles that cause a furrowed or tense expression.

Goal: A more relaxed, approachable appearance.

Crow's Feet

These lines appear at the outer corners of the eyes when smiling.

What it does: Softens fine lines while preserving a natural smile.

Goal: Brighter, more youthful-looking eyes.

Brow Lift

Small, precise injections can subtly elevate the tail of the brow.

What it does: Creates a more open, refreshed eye area.

Goal: Gentle lift without surgery.

Bunny Lines

These are the small wrinkles that appear on the sides of the nose when you smile or scrunch.

What it does: Softens scrunch lines for smoother skin around the mid-face.

Lip Lines

These are the small vertical lines that form above the upper lip from puckering, smoking, or repetitive movement like drinking through a straw.

What it does: A small amount of neurotoxin placed around the lip border can soften dynamic puckering lines and reduce deep creasing over time.

Goal: Smoother lip lines while preserving natural movement for speaking and smiling.

Lip Flip

A small amount of neurotoxin placed along the upper lip border.

What it does: Allows the upper lip to gently roll outward, creating the appearance of more lip without filler.

Goal: Subtle volume enhancement in the upper lip.

Downturned Smile (DAO Treatment)

If the corners of your mouth pull downward at rest, it can create a sad or tense appearance.

What it does: Strategic placement of neurotoxin into the DAO muscle relaxes the downward pull, allowing the corners of the mouth to sit more neutral - or slightly lifted.

Goal: A softer, more positive resting expression without changing your natural smile.

Chin (Pebbled Chin)

Some people develop dimpling or texture in the chin when speaking or resting.

What it does: Smooths dimpling and softens tension in the lower face.

Jawline Slimming/TMJ Relief

Neurotoxins can be placed in the masseter muscles (jaw muscles).

What it does: 

• Softens jaw clenching and grinding 
• Can slim a wider lower face over time

Goal: Facial balance and functional relief.

Neck Bands

Vertical bands in the neck can become more noticeable with age.

What it does: Relaxes platysmal bands for a smoother neck contour

The Key Is Customization

Neurotoxin treatment is not one-size-fits-all. The right placement, dosage, and combination of areas depend on: 

• Your facial anatomy 
• Muscle strength 
• Desired outcome 
• Whether you prefer subtle softening or more dramatic smoothing

At The Spa at MPS, treatments are designed to maintain natural expression while enhancing balance and softness.

Not Sure Where You Need It?

Many patients come in thinking they only need one area treated, but after evaluation, we may recommend small adjustments in complementary areas to create more harmonious results.

A consultation allows us to: 

• Assess muscle movement 
• Discuss your goals 
• Create a personalized treatment plan

Subtle changes, when placed strategically, can make a significant difference

Ready to Find the Right Placement for You?

Neurotoxin treatments are most effective when they're customized to your unique facial anatomy and goals. Whether you're concerned about forehead lines, a downturned smile, lip lines, or jaw tension, the right placement makes all the difference.

A consultation at The Spa at MPS allows us to evaluate your muscle movement, discuss your concerns, and design a treatment plan that keeps you looking natural - just more refreshed. If you've been thinking about it, this is your sign to schedule your consultation  and get personalized guidance from our expert injectors.