How Many Units of Botox Do I Need?

Neurotoxins, such as Botox and Dysport, are used to relax muscles and soften fine lines and wrinkles in the skin. There are guidelines for how much of each product (units) should be used in each muscle area.  Because we are all individuals with different patterns of muscle movement, you may have different dosing than your friend who also gets neurotoxin injections.

Let’s talk about what the guidelines say and why individual assessments by a trained medical provider are important for figuring out the best dose for you.

By: Kristin Gaskins, NP

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Every treatment plan and Dose is Different 

It is first important to understand that the dose of neurotoxin is directly related to the duration of action. It is important to have a provider that listens to you and asks for feedback, or has you come back in for follow-up to ensure your dosing is adequate. At first, your injector is learning how your muscles work and because of this, it can take a treatment or two to perfect your dosing. Each individual also processes medication differently and may find that one brand works better for them over other brands.

We broke down some “do’s and don’ts” of botox in a previous blog—click here to read that!

Units of Botox Needed Based on Treatment Area 

Below is a chart that shows a typical neurotoxin dose range depending on the area that is being treated. These are just ranges and each individual is different. It is important to discuss what your goals are with your provider. If you are looking to have a more frozen look with minimal to no muscle movement, then you will need a higher dose. If you want to soften the fine lines that are forming, but would prefer to have the muscle activity quieted versus stopped, then you may be able to have a lower dose.

Again, the units of Botox and Dysport listed below are just general guidelines: 

The Negative Stigma Surrounding Botox

Depending on who you talk to, there can be a negative stigma surrounding Botox/Dysport and other aesthetic treatments. First, it is more common than you think. It also is not all about vanity. Small treatments can give us a confidence boost and at the end of the day how we feel about ourselves is the most important thing!

Still, have specific questions about doing dosing or how many units of Botox you may need? If you live in the Cincinnati area, give the office a call at (513)-984-2000 to schedule an appointment with one of our medical providers. You can also schedule a complimentary consultation by filling out our new patient inquiry form here!