Beyond the Frown: All the Ways Neurotoxins Can Transform Your Look
When most people hear “neurotoxin,” they immediately think of smoothing out frown lines or softening forehead wrinkles. And while that’s true, the world of aesthetics has revealed that neurotoxins are capable of so much more. From enhancing lips to contouring the jawline, this treatment has transformed how we approach natural, youthful beauty.
At Lucy’s Laser and Medspa in Mentor, OH, we love sharing not just the “how” but also the “why” behind treatments—so let’s dive into what neurotoxins are, where they came from, and all the incredible ways they can refresh your look.
What Are Neurotoxins?
Neurotoxins are purified proteins that temporarily relax overactive muscles. By blocking certain nerve signals, they prevent those muscles from contracting as strongly—meaning wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions can soften and smooth.
Think of it as giving your skin a chance to relax, reset, and recover. Unlike fillers (which add volume), neurotoxins work by calming the movement underneath the skin. The result? A refreshed, youthful appearance that still looks like you.
A Brief History: From Medicine to Aesthetics
Neurotoxin injections actually began in the world of medicine, not beauty. Doctors first used them in the late 1980s to treat conditions like crossed eyes and eyelid spasms. The discovery that these treatments also softened wrinkles around the eyes was almost accidental—but it launched a revolution.
By the early 2000s, neurotoxins were FDA-approved for cosmetic use, starting with frown lines between the eyebrows. Since then, both the techniques and the science have expanded, making them one of the most popular—and trusted—aesthetic treatments worldwide.
Common Aesthetic Uses of Neurotoxins
Here are the areas most people know and love:
Forehead Lines: Smooths those horizontal lines that come from raising your brows.
Frown Lines (“11s”): Softens the vertical lines between the brows for a more relaxed look.
Crow’s Feet: Diminishes the fine lines around the eyes that show up when we smile or squint.
Brow Lift: A subtle lift of the brows to open up the eyes and create a refreshed appearance.
Surprising & Advanced Uses You May Not Know
This is where neurotoxins really shine—their versatility. Here are some less-talked-about uses that make a big impact:
Jawline Slimming: By relaxing the masseter muscles, neurotoxins can contour the jawline and even ease jaw clenching or teeth grinding.
Lip Flip: A tiny dose relaxes the upper lip, giving it a subtle, natural “flip” that makes it appear fuller without filler.
Gummy Smile: Softens the pull of the upper lip, reducing excessive gum show when you smile.
Chin Dimpling: Smooths out the “orange peel” or dimpled look some people notice in the chin.
Neck Bands: Targets platysmal bands (the vertical lines in the neck) for a smoother, more youthful neckline.
Barbie Tox: The trending treatment that relaxes the neck and jaw muscles for a slimmer, more elongated neck and sculpted jawline—giving that “snatched” Barbie doll effect.
Headaches & Migraines: Treating areas like the masseter, temporalis, and neck muscles can ease tension headaches or even help prevent migraines caused by muscle strain and clenching.
Sweating (Hyperhidrosis): Neurotoxins can calm overactive sweat glands in the underarms, palms, or feet—life-changing for clients who struggle with excessive sweating.
Preventative Use: Starting treatments earlier can train muscles to relax, helping prevent deeper lines from ever forming.
Why Clients Love Neurotoxins
Quick & Convenient: Treatments take just minutes and require little to no downtime.
Customizable: Dosages and placements are tailored to your unique features and goals.
Natural Results: The goal isn’t always to look “frozen” but to enhance your natural beauty with subtle, refreshed results.
Confidence Boost: Looking rested and smooth often translates into feeling more confident day to day.
Myths vs. Facts: Clearing the Air
Even though neurotoxins are one of the most common aesthetic treatments, a lot of myths still swirl around them. Let’s set the record straight:
Myth: Neurotoxins will make me look frozen or expressionless.
Fact: When done correctly, neurotoxins simply soften lines while keeping your natural expressions intact.
Myth: Neurotoxins are unsafe.
Fact: Both Botox® and Dysport® are FDA-approved, thoroughly tested, and have been used safely for decades in both medical and aesthetic fields.
Myth: Treatments are painful.
Fact: Most clients describe injections as a quick pinch. The procedure is fast, with minimal discomfort, and no downtime.
Myth: Only older people get neurotoxins.
Fact: Many clients start in their 20s or 30s to prevent lines from forming—so it’s just as much about maintenance as correction.
Botox® vs. Dysport®: What’s the Difference?
At Lucy’s Laser and Medspa, we proudly offer two of the most trusted names in neurotoxins—Botox® and Dysport®. While both are designed to smooth lines and relax overactive muscles, there are a few subtle differences:
Botox®
The most widely recognized neurotoxin.
Known for its precision—ideal for treating smaller areas like crow’s feet or frown lines.
Results typically appear within 5–7 days and last about 3–4 months.
Dysport®
Often chosen for larger treatment areas, like the forehead, because it spreads more easily under the skin.
Results may show up a little faster (sometimes in as little as 2–3 days).
Also lasts about 3–4 months, depending on the individual.
Both options are safe, effective, and FDA-approved. The choice between Botox® and Dysport® often comes down to personal preference, treatment area, and your injector’s recommendation. During your consultation, our experts will help determine which product will give you the most natural, refreshed results.
Experience the Difference at Lucy’s Laser and Medspa
At Lucy’s, we believe education is empowerment—and that’s why we take time to explain every option and customize each treatment. Whether you’re curious about softening your first fine lines or exploring advanced uses like jawline slimming, our skilled team is here to help you look and feel your best.
Ready to see what neurotoxins can do for you? Book your consultation today and let’s design a plan that’s as unique as you are.