Botox Injection Techniques and Dosage Summary (Glabellar Wrinkles - Corrugator Supercilii, Procerus) Botulax vs Botox vs Xeomin
- Medihealkorea
- Mar 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 11

Glabellar wrinkles are primarily caused by the corrugator supercilii and procerus muscles. Therefore, Botox injections should be administered in a way that inhibits the movement of these muscles.
1. Injection Sites and Techniques
Botox injection methods for the glabellar area vary depending on the muscle structure and wrinkle pattern.

✅ Corrugator Supercilii Injection Sites
Wrinkle Type: Deep vertical wrinkles that form when frowning

Injection Points:
Central (medial) injection: Approximately 0.5 cm above the inner corner of the eyebrow in the middle of the glabella. Injection depth: 8mm (¾ needle length)
Lateral injection: In the concave area of the skin near the outer end of the eyebrow. Injection depth: 2-4mm (¼ needle length)
Precautions: Do not inject 0.5-1cm beyond the outer eyebrow edge, as improper injection can lead to brow ptosis or eyelid ptosis.
✅ Procerus Injection Sites
Wrinkle Type: Horizontal wrinkles (formed when making an angry expression)

Injection Points:
Single central injection: Middle of the glabella, directly between the eyebrows
Depth: Approximately 6mm (½ needle length)
Dosage: 4-6U per injection site
✅ V-Shaped Corrugator Supercilii Injection
Adjust the injection depth based on the V-shaped muscle structure: inject deeper in the inner area and shallower in the outer area.


Dosage:
Deep medial part: 4-6U
Shallow lateral part: 2-4U
2. Botox Dosage Guidelines
Muscle | Injection Site | Dosage (U, Botox standard) |
Procerus | Central single point | 4-6U |
Corrugator Supercilii | Medial (deep) | 4-6U |
Corrugator Supercilii | Lateral (shallow) | 2-4U |
Average dosage for men | - | 24U / 60 sU |
Average dosage for women | - | 24U / 50 sU |
✅ Gender Differences
Men have a longer and stronger corrugator supercilii muscle, so they require a higher dosage compared to women.
3. Recommended Syringe and Injection Depth
Botox dilution ratio: 1mL saline + 100U Botox
Needle type: 30G (commonly used for glabellar Botox injections)
Depth adjustments:
Superficial areas (lateral corrugator) → 2-4mm depth
Thicker muscle areas (medial corrugator) → 6-8mm depth
4. Botox Duration and Treatment Frequency
Onset of effect: Typically 2-7 days after injection
Duration: Average of 3-4 months
Treatment interval: Repeat every 4-6 months
Higher dosage use: Can extend the duration up to 6 months
5. Comparison of Botulinum Toxin Types (Botox, Xeomin, Botulax)
Product | Key Features | Dilution Ratio | Onset of Effect | Duration |
Botox (OnabotulinumtoxinA) | Most extensively researched, strong neural transmission blocking effect | 2.5mL:100U | 3~5 days | 3~4 months |
Xeomin (IncobotulinumtoxinA) | Purified toxin without complexing proteins, lower risk of antibody formation | 2.5mL:100U | Faster (2~3 days) | 3~4 months |
Botulax | Korean-made toxin, relatively lower cost | 2.5mL:100U | 3~5 days | 3~4 months |
Xeomin has a faster onset of effect compared to Botox and carries a lower risk of antibody formation, making it advantageous in some cases.
6. Post-Injection Care Instructions
To maximize the effectiveness of Botox and minimize side effects, follow these care instructions:
✅ Do not lie down for 4 hours after injection
Prevents Botox from spreading to unintended areas
✅ Avoid rubbing the forehead
Massage or strong pressure can cause Botox to spread
✅ Avoid intense exercise for 24 hours
Increased body temperature can reduce Botox efficacy
7. Potential Side Effects of Botox Injection
While Botox is generally safe, some side effects may occur:
❗ Brow or Eyelid Drooping (Brow Ptosis, Eyelid Ptosis)
Caused by injecting too far beyond the eyebrow or too deep
❗ Bruising and Bleeding
The glabellar area has many blood vessels, so bruising may occur
❗ Asymmetry
If the injection dosage differs between sides, the eyebrow height may appear uneven
8. Conclusion
Botox injections for glabellar wrinkles require a precise understanding of muscle anatomy and customized dosing based on the patient’s wrinkle pattern.
Men may require a higher dosage due to stronger muscles.
Injection depth and angle should be carefully adjusted to minimize the risk of side effects such as eyelid drooping.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve a natural and effective reduction in glabellar wrinkles. Always consult with a qualified professional for the best results!
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