What You Need to Know Before You Book
Botox has come a long way since it first hit the aesthetics scene. What started as a treatment mainly for forehead lines is now FDA-approved for multiple areas of the face and beyond. But here’s the deal, not all providers are upfront about where Botox should be used, and not every area is right for every person.
If you’re considering Botox, it’s helpful to know exactly what’s been approved by the FDA and what each treatment area actually does for your look.
At Pinnacle Health & Spa, we believe in full transparency and personalized care, so you always know what you’re getting and why.
Here’s your guide to every FDA-approved Botox treatment area—and what each one can do for you.
1. Forehead Lines
What It Treats: Horizontal lines that appear when you raise your eyebrows
Why It Matters: These are often the first signs of aging. Treating them softens the look of worry or surprise while still allowing for natural movement.
What to Expect: Your provider will carefully assess muscle strength and facial symmetry to avoid that heavy or “spocked” look.
2. Glabellar Lines (a.k.a. “11s”)
What It Treats: Vertical frown lines between the eyebrows
Why It Matters: These lines can make you look tired, angry, or stressed—even when you’re not.
What to Expect: This is one of the most common treatment zones. A skilled injector will smooth the area without freezing your ability to frown (yes, there’s a balance).
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3. Crow’s Feet
What It Treats: Fine lines that form at the corners of the eyes
Why It Matters: These are typically caused by smiling, squinting, and sun exposure. Treating them helps you look refreshed without touching your actual smile.
What to Expect: Light dosing here goes a long way—especially if paired with good skincare and sun protection.
4. Bunny Lines
What It Treats: Wrinkles on the sides of the nose when you scrunch it
Why It Matters: They’re not a big concern for everyone, but if you notice crinkling in this area, Botox can help smooth it out.
What to Expect: A tiny dose on each side of the nose helps soften the lines without affecting facial expression.
5. Chin Dimpling (a.k.a. “Orange Peel Chin”)
What It Treats: Uneven texture or puckering on the chin
Why It Matters: This area is often overlooked, but smoothing the chin can subtly enhance your lower-face contour.
What to Expect: Botox relaxes the mentalis muscle, creating a more even skin texture and refined appearance.
6. Neck Bands (Platysmal Bands)
What It Treats: Vertical neck lines that become more pronounced with age
Why It Matters: Addressing these bands can improve jawline definition and give a lifted, youthful look—without surgery.
What to Expect: This treatment requires an experienced injector. It’s not for everyone, but when done correctly, the results are impressive.
Off-Label But Popular: Other Common Areas
While the above areas are FDA-approved, many experienced providers also treat the following with Botox off-label (and very effectively):
Jawline Slimming / Masseter Reduction (for TMJ or Facial Contouring)
Botox is injected into the masseter muscles (at the back of the jaw) to relax and shrink them over time.
Great for:
- Softening a square or bulky jawline
- Reducing teeth grinding or jaw tension from TMJ
- Results: Slimmer, more V-shaped face over several weeks
- Longevity: Lasts 4–6 months; consistent treatments enhance results
Lip Flip (Subtle Lip Enhancement)
A few small units of Botox are placed around the upper lip to relax the muscles and gently “flip” the lip upward.
Great for:
- Enhancing the shape of the upper lip
- Making lips appear fuller without filler
- Results: More defined lip shape, especially when smiling
- Longevity: Lasts 6–8 weeks; touch-ups required for maintenance
Gummy Smile (Reduces Upper Gum Exposure When You Smile)
Botox is used to weaken the muscles that lift the upper lip too high, lowering the lip line slightly.
Great for:
- Smiles that expose too much gum
- Creating a more balanced smile
- Results: Less gum showing, softer smile
- Longevity: Lasts 3–4 months
Underarm Sweating (Hyperhidrosis Treatment)
Botox blocks nerve signals to sweat glands, dramatically reducing underarm sweating.
Great for:
- Excessive sweating that doesn’t respond to deodorants
- Staying dry in social or professional settings
- Results: Sweat reduction within days, dry underarms for months
- Longevity: Lasts 6–9 months on average
At Pinnacle Health & Spa, we offer these treatments after a full consultation to ensure they’re safe, appropriate, and right for your aesthetic goals.
What to Ask Your Provider Before Treating Any Area
Knowing where Botox can go is one thing—knowing whether it’s right for you is another. Here’s what to ask:
✅ “Which areas do you recommend for my facial structure?”
✅ “What results should I expect from each area?”
✅ “How much movement will I retain?”
✅ “Is this area FDA-approved, or is it an off-label treatment?”
✅ “What’s your experience with treating this specific area?”
Final Thoughts: Choose Skill Over Hype
Getting Botox isn’t just about knowing the right areas, it’s about choosing the right provider who knows your face.
At Pinnacle Health & Spa, we take a customized approach to every treatment, using advanced techniques and a deep understanding of facial anatomy to create balanced, natural results.
📍 Thinking about Botox in Tacoma, WA? We’d love to meet you.
📅 Book your consultation and let’s talk about the right treatment plan for your unique face.
📲 Got questions? DM us anytime on Instagram—we’re here to help.