Lines, Meet Science: A Woman’s Guide to Botox and Alternatives

Whether you're curious about trying Botox for the first time or looking to switch brands, it’s all about finding what makes you feel your best.

Once we hit our 40s, a few things start to shift, our confidence, our priorities, and yes, our skin. Fine lines and wrinkles become more noticeable, especially around the eyes, forehead, and between the brows. If you’ve ever considered Botox or a similar treatment but felt unsure where to start, you're not alone.

Here’s a guide to what Botox does, what other options exist, and how they all compare.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox is a type of neurotoxin (botulinum toxin type A) that temporarily relaxes the muscles underneath your skin. It works by blocking the nerve signals that cause those muscles to contract. No muscle movement = no creasing of the skin. It’s most used to treat:

• Forehead lines

• Frown lines (the "11s" between your brows)

• Crow’s feet (around the eyes)

Unlike dermal fillers, Botox doesn’t add volume. It prevents repetitive muscle movements that cause lines to deepen over time.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Botox doesn’t give instant results. It usually starts working within 3 to 5 days, but full results are typically seen at 7 to 14 days. So, if you have an event coming up, plan accordingly!

Other Brands That Do the Same Thing

Botox is just one brand of botulinum toxin, but there are others that work similarly, with slight differences in onset time, spread, and duration. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Brand	Onset Time	Full Results	Duration	Notable For
Botox	3–5 days	7–14 days	3–4 months	The original; well-studied and widely used
Dysport	2–3 days	7–10 days	3–4 months	Spreads more, great for broader areas
Xeomin	3–4 days	7–14 days	3–4 months	Doesn’t contain additives (aka “naked Botox”)
Jeuveau	3–5 days	7–10 days	3–4 months	Marketed for cosmetic use, slightly cheaper

All work in the same basic way, they just have slightly different formulations. Some people notice subtle differences in how they feel or how long they last, but the choice usually comes down to personal preference and your injector’s recommendation. Personally, I have used Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport and was not able to tell the difference between them in terms of how they worked. What differed the most, for me, was who was injecting the toxin. Inexperienced injectors could miss the targeted muscle rendering the product ineffective.

What to Expect During and After Treatment

Treatment is quick—usually under 15 minutes—and involves a few small injections with a fine needle. Most people describe it as a tiny pinch. You might see some redness or mild swelling right after, but it typically goes away within an hour or two.

Is It Worth It?

If you're hoping for a smoother, more rested appearance without surgery, Botox and its alternatives are a great non-invasive option. Many women over 40 love how it softens expression lines and gives a subtle refresh without looking “done.”

Again, the most important factor is your injector. Choose someone experienced, licensed, and willing to walk you through options. A great provider will tailor the treatment to your face, not just follow a one-size-fits-all approach.

Final Thoughts

Aging doesn’t mean giving up on how you feel about your reflection. Whether you're curious about trying Botox for the first time or looking to switch brands, it’s all about finding what makes you feel your best.

References & Further Reading

1.     American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). “Botulinum Toxin: What It Is and How It Works.”https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/injectables/botulinum-toxin

2.     U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). “Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) – Approval and Safety Info.”https://www.fda.gov

3.     Carruthers A, Carruthers J. “Botulinum toxin type A: History and current cosmetic use in the upper face.” Dermatol Surg. 2005.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15841634/

4.     Galderma. “Dysport Prescribing Information.”https://www.dysportusa.com

5.     Merz Aesthetics. “Xeomin: Prescribing and Product Info.”https://www.xeominaesthetic.com

6.     Evolus. “Jeuveau (Newtox) Clinical Information.”https://www.evolus.com