Forehead Wrinkles

What are forehead wrinkles?

The forehead is one of the most stressed areas of the face on a daily basis. It is therefore common for wrinkles to appear there earlier than in other areas of the face.

There are two main types of forehead wrinkles. Horizontal wrinkles run across the forehead from left to right and are caused by repeated raising of the eyebrows. Vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows are commonly known as frown lines, also called glabellar lines. They result from repeated frowning.

Although they often appear simultaneously, these wrinkles originate from different muscles, namely the frontalis muscles for horizontal lines and the corrugator muscles for frown lines. This distinction is essential, as each type of wrinkle responds differently to treatment.

Learn more about wrinkles and fine lines

Dynamic wrinkles and static wrinkles: what's the difference?

Dynamic wrinkles are usually the first to appear. They are only visible when the face moves, for example when frowning or raising the eyebrows. At this stage, the skin regains a smooth appearance when the face is at rest.

Over time, repeated muscle contractions, combined with the gradual decrease in collagen and elastin, lead to a loss of skin elasticity. Wrinkles then become static, meaning they are visible even when the face is relaxed.

Identifying whether wrinkles are dynamic or static helps guide the treatment plan. Dynamic wrinkles generally respond better to neuromodulator injections, while static wrinkles often require a combined approach that may include fillers.

Why do forehead wrinkles appear?

Forehead wrinkles are caused by several factors that act simultaneously over the years.

Repeated facial expressions, such as frowning or raising the forehead, are the main mechanical cause. Added to this is natural skin aging. From the late twenties onwards, collagen and elastin production gradually slows down, weakening the skin's structure.

Exposure to UV rays is one of the major accelerators of skin aging, a phenomenon often referred to as photoaging. The forehead is constantly exposed and therefore particularly vulnerable. Pollution, smoking, dehydration, and oxidative stress also contribute to the deterioration of skin quality.

Finally, genetics and skin type play a significant role. Thinner or lighter skin tends to show signs of aging more quickly on the forehead.

How to reduce forehead wrinkles naturally

Natural approaches are particularly relevant for prevention and for forehead wrinkles at an early stage.

Daily sun protection remains the most effective measure. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher helps prevent UV-induced collagen degradation.

Adequate hydration, both internally through sufficient water consumption and externally through appropriate topical care, helps maintain skin suppleness. Skincare products containing topical hyaluronic acid improve surface hydration, while retinol promotes cell renewal and supports collagen production. Peptides are also known for their role in supporting skin structure.

Facial massage can complement this routine. Light tapping along the forehead lines, from the center outwards, promotes superficial muscle relaxation and absorption of skincare products.

Neuromodulator injections for forehead wrinkles (Botox, Dysport, Nuceiva)

Botulinum toxin injections work by temporarily relaxing the muscles responsible for repeated contractions. On the forehead, they mainly target the frontalis muscle for horizontal wrinkles and the corrugator and procerus muscles for frown lines.

At Clinique Main d’Or, the products used include botulinum toxin (e.g., Botox, Dysport, or others), all of which are formulations approved by Health Canada.

This treatment is particularly recommended for dynamic wrinkles, but also as a preventive measure for younger patients. The "baby Botox" approach aims to reduce the intensity of muscle contractions while maintaining natural facial expressions.

The session is quick, usually lasting 10 to 15 minutes, and does not require anesthesia. The injections are performed using very fine needles, and patients can resume their daily activities immediately.

The first effects usually appear between 3 and 7 days, with optimal results around 14 days. The duration of action varies from 3 to 6 months depending on each individual's metabolism and muscle habits. Precise dosing is essential to avoid a frozen appearance and preserve facial harmony. In some cases, a slight eyebrow-lifting effect may also be observed.

For more details, see the page dedicated to botulinum toxin injections.

Hyaluronic acid injections to fill forehead wrinkles

Injectable hyaluronic acid works differently. It restores subcutaneous volume and fills in deep lines that neuromodulators alone cannot correct.

Hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in the human body, recognized for its biocompatibility. It is particularly suitable for deep static wrinkles on the forehead or to correct volume loss in the frontal region.

The results are visible immediately after the injection. The syringes usually contain a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. Slight swelling may occur for 24 to 48 hours. The duration of the results varies between 6 and 12 months depending on the product used and the area treated.

This treatment is often combined with neuromodulators to address both the muscular cause and residual volume loss.

Complementary treatments to improve forehead skin quality

Certain complementary treatments can improve the texture and overall quality of the skin on the forehead.

Radiofrequency with microneedling stimulates deep collagen production and improves skin firmness. HIFU, or high-intensity focused ultrasound, acts on the deep layers of the skin for gradual firming over several months.

Chemical peels promote cell renewal and are useful for superficial fine lines and sun damage. Microneedling with poly-vitamins improves skin hydration and radiance. Skin boosters, composed of non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid, help improve skin elasticity and quality over the long term.

For more information on HIFU

Forehead wrinkles — Botox or hyaluronic acid?

Botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid are not competing treatments, but complementary ones.

Neuromodulators act on dynamic wrinkles by reducing muscle contractions. Results appear gradually and generally last for 3 to 6 months. They are particularly suitable for expression lines.

Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, fills static wrinkles by restoring volume. The results are immediate and often last for 6 to 12 months.

When forehead wrinkles are moderate to deep, a combination of both approaches is often recommended. The consultation allows us to determine the most appropriate strategy based on facial structure and individual expectations.

How much does Botox cost for forehead wrinkles?

The cost of forehead wrinkle treatment depends on several factors, including the number of units required, muscle strength, and the areas treated, such as the forehead alone or in combination with frown lines.

At Clinique Main d’Or, the price for botulinum toxin (e.g., Botox, Dysport, or other) is $9 to $11 per unit.

As treatments require regular maintenance, injections are generally performed 2 to 3 times a year to maintain results. A consultation is essential in order to establish a personalized treatment plan and an accurate quote.

Detailed rates are available here: Our service rates