Treating Wrinkles: Botox®

Ease frown lines. Brighten your expression. Naturally you.

When you look in the mirror, do you notice frown lines, forehead creases, or crow’s feet that make you look more tired or stressed than you feel? You’re not alone — these expression lines are one of the most common concerns we see.

Botox® (botulinum toxin) is a safe, effective, and time-tested treatment that softens these lines by gently relaxing the muscles that cause them. The result is a refreshed, natural look — not frozen, not overdone.

What is Botox®?

Botox® is a purified form of botulinum toxin that has been used in medicine for decades. In dermatology, it’s used in precise, low doses to temporarily relax specific facial muscles, smoothing wrinkles while preserving natural expression.

Treatment is quick, performed in the office, and requires no downtime. Most patients return to normal daily activities immediately.

What can Botox® treat?

Botox® is FDA-approved for several dermatologic uses, including:

  • Frown lines between the eyebrows

  • Crow’s feet around the eyes

  • Forehead lines

  • Excessive underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis) when topical treatments aren’t effective

What results can I expect?

  • Visible improvement: typically within 3–7 days

  • Peak results: around 2 weeks

  • Longevity: about 3–4 months (sometimes longer with repeat treatments)

Lines soften gradually as the treated muscles relax, creating a smoother, more rested appearance.

What is the treatment like?

Botox® treatments are performed during a single office visit by your dermatologist. Using a fine needle, small amounts are injected into targeted muscles. Discomfort is minimal and brief.

There is no required downtime, though we’ll review simple after-care instructions to help you get the best results.

Is Botox® covered by insurance?

Coverage depends on the reason for treatment:

  • Cosmetic use: not covered by insurance

  • Medical use (such as excessive sweating): may be partially covered

We recommend checking with your insurance provider for details specific to your plan.

Why choose Decatur Dermatology & Aesthetics?

At DD&A, Botox® is approached with the same philosophy as all our care: expertise, restraint, and personalization. Treatments are tailored to your facial anatomy and goals — enhancing how you look, not changing who you are.

If you’re considering Botox® or have questions about whether it’s right for you, we’re happy to talk it through.

Schedule a consultation to learn more about Botox® at Decatur Dermatology & Aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Botox®

  • Botox® is a prescription medication made from a purified form of botulinum toxin. When used in small, controlled amounts by a trained dermatologist, it safely relaxes targeted muscles to soften wrinkles and fine lines caused by facial expressions.

  • Botox® temporarily blocks nerve signals to specific muscles. When those muscles relax, the overlying skin smooths out — reducing the appearance of lines such as frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead wrinkles.

  • Yes — when administered by a qualified medical professional. Botox® has been used safely for decades and is FDA-approved for both cosmetic and medical uses. Safety depends on proper dosing, technique, and patient selection, which is why treatment by a board-certified dermatologist matters.

  • The procedure itself usually takes 10–15 minutes. It’s often called a “lunchtime treatment” because there’s little to no downtime.

  • Most patients begin to see improvement within 3–7 days, with full results visible around 2 weeks after treatment.

  • Results typically last 3 to 4 months. With regular treatments, some patients find that results may last slightly longer over time.

  • When done correctly, no. The goal is natural-looking relaxation, not stiffness. At Decatur Dermatology & Aesthetics, Botox® is used thoughtfully to soften lines while preserving natural expression.

  • Most patients describe the sensation as a quick pinch. Discomfort is minimal and brief. If needed, we can use techniques to make treatment even more comfortable.

  • There is no required downtime. You can return to most normal activities right away. We’ll review a few simple after-care guidelines, such as avoiding strenuous exercise for the rest of the day.

  • Item desIn dermatology, Botox® is commonly used for:

    • Frown lines between the eyebrows

    • Crow’s feet

    • Forehead lines

    • Excessive underarm sweating (hyperhidrosis) when topical treatments aren’t effectivecription

    • Cosmetic Botox®: not covered by insurance

    • Medical Botox® (e.g., excessive sweating): may be partially covered depending on your plan

    Coverage varies, so we recommend contacting your insurance provider for specifics.

  • Botox® may not be appropriate if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have certain neuromuscular conditions, or have had reactions to botulinum toxin in the past. A consultation allows us to review your medical history and ensure Botox® is safe for you.

  • A dermatologist has extensive training in facial anatomy, skin health, and medical aesthetics. This expertise helps ensure treatments are safe, precise, and natural-looking, with results tailored to your individual face.