If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “I look tired, even when I’m not,” you’re not alone. Expression lines, crow’s feet, and forehead creases have a way of showing up even when we’re feeling our best. That’s where wrinkle relaxers come in.
Most people know Botox by name, but what many don’t realize is that there are multiple FDA-approved options available, each with its own unique formula, onset time, and longevity. Whether you’re new to the world of aesthetic treatments or just curious about what else is out there, exploring your options can help you make a more informed, confident choice.
After all, the goal isn’t to look like someone else. It’s to look like you, just a little smoother and more refreshed.
First Things First: What Are Wrinkle Relaxers?
Wrinkle relaxers are injectable treatments that work by temporarily softening the muscle activity responsible for expression lines. These are the lines that deepen over time from repeated movements like squinting, frowning, and raising the eyebrows.
When skillfully injected, neuromodulators help reduce the appearance of these lines, creating a smoother, more rested appearance. Common treatment areas include the forehead, crow’s feet around the eyes, glabellar lines between the brows, and even the jawline or neck.
Let’s Talk Safety
It’s completely normal to have questions or hesitations before trying an injectable treatment, especially when it involves the face. The good news is that wrinkle relaxers have been studied extensively and are considered very safe when administered by a licensed, experienced provider.
The active ingredient in all FDA-approved wrinkle relaxers is a purified form of botulinum toxin type A. This might sound intimidating at first glance, but in the tiny doses used for cosmetic treatments, it has an excellent safety profile. These treatments have been used medically for decades—not just in aesthetics, but also in fields like neurology, ophthalmology, and even pediatrics to treat muscle spasms and migraines.
Some key points about wrinkle relaxer safety:
- The doses used cosmetically are incredibly small and targeted.
- The effects are temporary, typically lasting 3 to 6 months.
- Side effects are generally mild, such as temporary redness, swelling, or minor bruising at the injection site.
Most importantly, safety is about the injector. A trained professional will not only know where to inject, but how much to use and how to tailor the treatment to your unique facial anatomy. That’s what makes the difference between a subtle, elegant result and something that feels “off.”
BOTOX®: The Gold Standard
Botox is the most well-known neuromodulator, and for good reason. It was the first to be approved for cosmetic use and has a long track record of success. Botox works by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles, allowing those muscles to relax and the overlying skin to smooth out.
Common uses:
- Forehead lines
- Glabellar lines (“11s”)
- Crow’s feet
- Lip flip
- Jawline slimming (masseter treatment)
- Neck bands
Onset: 5 to 7 days
Duration: 3 to 4 months
Botox is often the go-to for first-time clients or those who prefer a more traditional, proven option.
Daxxify™: The Long-Wear Option
Daxxify is the newest wrinkle relaxer on the market and has gained attention for its longevity. Unlike other neuromodulators, Daxxify is powered by a proprietary peptide technology, which allows it to last longer in many people.
Common uses:
- All traditional Botox areas
- Great option for clients looking to stretch time between treatments
Onset: 2 to 4 days
Duration: Up to 6 months
If you’re someone with a busy schedule or you simply want fewer maintenance appointments throughout the year, Daxxify is worth considering.
Dysport®: The Soft-Focus Smoother
Dysport is known for its quick onset and soft, natural finish. It tends to spread a bit more than other neuromodulators, which makes it an excellent choice for treating larger areas like the forehead.
Common uses:
- Forehead lines
- Glabellar lines
- Crow’s feet
Onset: 2 to 3 days
Duration: 3 to 4 months
Patients who feel they’re very expressive or who want a less “frozen” look often appreciate our Dysport Scottdale treatments for thier feather-light finish.
Xeomin®: The Clean Beauty Pick
Xeomin is sometimes called the “naked injectable” because it is a highly purified option and a favorite among clients who are more ingredient-conscious or have developed a resistance to other formulas.
Common uses:
- Glabellar lines
- Forehead lines
- Crow’s feet
Onset: 4 to 5 days
Duration: 3 to 4 months
Xeomin can be a good option for long-term users of wrinkle relaxers, especially if they’re noticing that other products aren’t working as well over time.
So, Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing the right wrinkle relaxer depends on your goals, facial anatomy, past experiences, and even your lifestyle. Some people prioritize fast results. Others want something that will last longer between appointments. Some prefer a product that feels ultra-light and natural. Others are looking for specific changes, like jawline slimming or brow lifting.
A Word from Nurse Diane
“Wrinkle relaxers can restore balance, soften tension, and highlight the natural beauty that’s already there. It’s about feeling like yourself, just a little more refreshed.”
– Nurse Diane Howard, Expert Injector of Phoenix Botox Treatments