BOTOX Cosmetic is a popular nonsurgical treatment to soften wrinkles and lines by relaxing the facial muscles that cause them.
Crow’s feet — the little lines around your eyes — are a common concern. If you’re thinking about using BOTOX to treat them, here’s what you need to know.
This article discusses how many units of BOTOX are typically recommended for crow’s feet, factors that affect the dosage, and why it’s essential to find a qualified, experienced injector.
Understanding How BOTOX Works
BOTOX, or Botulinum toxin, is a neuromodulator. Other neuromodulators include Dysport®, XEOMIN®, and DAXXIFY®.
Neuromodulators work by temporarily blocking nerve signals to muscles. This reduces muscle activity, which softens wrinkles.
The effects of BOTOX typically last three to four months. DAXXIFY lasts about six months.
How much Botox is needed for crow’s feet?
Let’s talk dosage and technique.
Standard Dosage Range
Typically, crow’s feet need somewhere between 9 and 12 units of Botox per side. I’ve seen some sources that say 9-10 units is more common. That means you’re looking at a total dosage of 18-24 units for both eyes.
Injection Technique
The Botox is injected into the orbicularis oculi muscle, which is the muscle that circles your eye. The injector has to be really careful to place the injections in just the right spots to target the lines without making you look frozen or unnatural.
What factors determine BOTOX dosage?
Several things can affect how much BOTOX you need. Don’t be afraid to ask your injector about these!
Individual Muscle Strength
Stronger muscles might need more BOTOX to relax completely. A good injector will check the strength of your muscles when you have your consultation.
Severity of Wrinkles
If you have deep, noticeable crow’s feet, you’ll probably need more units. If the wrinkles are finer, you might need less.
Facial Anatomy
Everyone’s face is different, and the size and shape of your face, along with the surrounding muscles, will help the injector decide on the right dose for you.
Previous BOTOX Treatments
If you’ve had BOTOX before, you might respond differently this time. Your past experiences and results can help determine the best dosage moving forward.
Why a skilled injector is so important
If you’re considering Botox, it’s important to find a qualified, experienced injector. Studies show that Botox injections are very safe when given by someone with the right credentials and plenty of experience.
An experienced injector will be able to assess your facial structure, muscle strength, and the severity of your wrinkles to figure out the correct dose for you. They’ll also know how to minimize the risk of complications and make sure your results look natural.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many units of Botox are typically recommended for crow’s feet?
The standard recommendation is usually around 24 units of Botox to treat crow’s feet, with 12 units injected into the orbicularis oculi muscle on each side of the face. However, the precise amount can vary based on individual muscle strength, wrinkle depth, and desired results.
How many areas will 20 units of Botox cover?
20 units of Botox is often sufficient to treat a single area, such as the glabella lines (frown lines between the eyebrows). For larger areas or treating multiple areas, you’ll likely need more units. The exact coverage depends on the individual’s anatomy and the specific treatment goals.
Is 10 units of Botox enough for 11 lines?
10 units of Botox is a relatively low dose for treating 11 lines (glabellar lines). Most practitioners typically use between 20 and 25 units to effectively relax the muscles that cause these lines. While 10 units may provide some softening, it might not achieve the desired level of wrinkle reduction. The final amount depends on the depth of the lines.
In closing
Nine to twelve units of Botox on each side of the face is the typical dosage for treating crow’s feet, but the exact number of units you’ll need depends on a number of individual factors.
It’s important to talk with a qualified injector to determine the best dosage to meet your unique needs.
With proper administration, Botox can effectively reduce crow’s feet and enhance your appearance.