Fine lines and wrinkles happen to everyone, but that doesn't mean you have to live with them. These signs of aging can make you look older or more tired than you feel. For many Canadians, injectable neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport offer a fast, effective, and non-surgical way to smooth those lines and refresh your appearance.
In this post, we’ll explain how neuromodulators work, what they treat, and why more people are choosing them over surgery.
What Are Neuromodulators?
Neuromodulators are injectable treatments that temporarily relax muscles. The two most popular brands are Botox and Dysport. Both use a purified form of botulinum toxin type A—a protein that blocks nerve signals to targeted muscles.
When injected into specific facial areas, neuromodulators reduce muscle activity that causes dynamic wrinkles. These are the lines that form from repeated facial expressions, such as frowning, squinting, or raising your eyebrows.
How Wrinkles Happen-and How Neuromodulators Lend a Hand
Over the years, skin naturally loses collagen and elasticity, setting the stage for wrinkles. Add in constant facial movements from smiling, frowning, or squinting, and you see crow's feet, forehead creases, and angry lines.
Neuromodulators step in by pulling the plug on nerve signals that tell muscles to tighten. With gentler contractions, the surface skin can relax, evening out current grooves and lowering the odds of new ones.
Botox vs. Dysport: What's the Difference?
Both Botox and Dysport contain the same active ingredient and have similar effects. However, there are some subtle differences:
Onset time: Dysport tends to work slightly faster, often showing results within 2–3 days. Botox may take 3–5 days.
Spread: Dysport spreads more easily, which can be helpful for treating larger areas like the forehead.
Duration: Typically, the effects of both Botox and Dysport remain noticeable for three to four months, though this varies by individual factors like metabolism and muscle activity.
An experienced provider will guide you in selecting the most suitable option based on your facial structure, skin condition, and personal treatment goals.
Common Treatment Areas
Neuromodulators are most commonly used on the upper face, but they have several cosmetic and even medical applications:
Forehead Lines
Horizontal creases that form when you raise your eyebrows can be relaxed to create a smoother look.
Frown Lines ("11s")
These vertical lines between your eyebrows are caused by repeated scowling or concentrating. A few quick injections soften their appearance.
Crow’s Feet
Fine lines around the eyes from smiling or squinting respond well to neuromodulator treatment.
Bunny Lines
These appear on the sides of the nose when you scrunch your face. Botox or Dysport can minimize them.
Jawline and Chin
Some use neuromodulators to soften a square jaw, slim the face, or smooth a dimpled chin (often called "orange peel" skin).
The Treatment Process
Getting neuromodulators is quick and straightforward. Here’s what to expect:
1. Consultation
Your provider will assess your skin, ask about your goals, and explain the recommended approach. This includes discussing dosage, treatment areas, and expected outcomes.
2. Injection
The procedure itself takes about 10–15 minutes. Tiny needles are used to inject the product into precise facial muscles. Most patients report minimal discomfort.
3. Aftercare
Most patients jump back into their usual day within a few hours after the injections. To let the treatment settle the way it should, though, stay away from hard exercise, lying completely flat, and touching the spots for about four to six hours. Following these easy tips gives you the smoothest outcome and keeps minor irritation to a minimum.
4. Results
You’ll start seeing results in a few days, with full effects within two weeks. The treated areas will look smoother and more relaxed, but your expressions will still look natural, not frozen.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
Most healthy adults are candidates for neuromodulators. Ideal patients include those who:
Want to reduce the appearance of fine lines or prevent deeper wrinkles
Prefer a non-surgical option with minimal recovery time
Have realistic expectations about results
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with certain neurological conditions should avoid treatment. Always consult a licensed medical professional before starting.
How Long Do Results Last?
Neuromodulator effects typically last 3–4 months. Some people find they need touch-ups more frequently at first, but results often last longer with consistent use.
Over time, as treated muscles stay relaxed and facial habits change, you may even find that you need less product or fewer sessions to maintain your look.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Side effects are generally mild and temporary. You might experience:
Slight redness or swelling at the injection site
Minor bruising
Headache (in rare cases)
Serious side effects are extremely rare when treatment is administered by a trained provider. That’s why choosing an experienced clinic is crucial.
Myths and Misconceptions
Myth: You’ll Look Frozen
Truth: A skilled provider knows how to achieve natural-looking results that enhance your features without making your face look stiff.
Myth: It’s Only for Older People
Truth: Many younger adults in their 20s and 30s use neuromodulators as a preventive measure.
Myth: Once You Start, You Can’t Stop
Truth: You can stop at any time. Your face will return to its natural appearance without worsening.
Why Experience Matters
While the procedure is non-invasive, it still requires knowledge of facial anatomy and proper technique. An untrained injector can cause unnatural results or unwanted side effects.
Choosing a licensed professional with a track record of safe and aesthetic outcomes ensures you’ll get the best possible results.
Ready to Refresh Your Look Without Surgery?
If you’re considering wrinkle-smoothing treatments in Canada, Selkirk Crossing Dental is here to help. Our expert team—including your trusted dentist, Selkirk residents rely on—offers more than just oral health care. At our practice, aesthetic services like Botox and Dysport are provided with precision and care by trained professionals. When you choose our Selkirk dentist team, you’re getting safe, natural-looking results in a warm, comfortable setting.
Book a consultation with Selkirk Crossing Dental today and see how subtle changes can bring out your best look, without surgery, and downtime.