I Frown Without Even Realizing It, How Can I Stop This Worried, Angry and Concerned Facial Expression of Mine? (photo)

Most people who have deep frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar region) are effectively treated by Botox injections to relax the muscles so the frown can't occur. After a while of maintaining this relaxation by having the Botox repeated before it wears off (3 - 4 months usually), the skin creases tend to improve but some patients who have deep lines at rest, benefit by placement and conservative use of a filler in addition to the Botox. This must be done by an experienced physician as there are rare risks with this procedure.

The information provided in Dr. Shelton's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice.  The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.

Botox is a safe, effective, and well-studied treatment for the area specifically between the brows, or the "glabellar" lines. Consulting with an experienced injector for number of units and placement is the first step to relaxing that area and softening that "angry" or "concerned" look you are trying to avoid.

Botox/Dysport injections to the frown lines will give a great result and possibly help train the muscles from frowning between the eyebrows for roughly $300 and lasts 3-5 months and is easy to undergo with no downtime.  Sincerely,

David Hansen,MD

You are describing a very common concern but one that can be improved.  Botox Cosmetic was first approved by the FDA to reduce frown lines.  See your dermatologist and ask about use of Botox Cosmetic, Xeomin or Dysport, all FDA approved botulinum toxins that can be used to safely and effectively reduce your ability to make that frown. The treatment takes minutes and has no downtime. The effect lasts 3 - 6 months but if you start young, you can weaken the muscles enough and break the frowning habit and extend the time between treatments.One additional recommendation: if you are squinting in front of the computer, you may also want to see an ophthalmologist to see if you need glasses or contacts (or if you have them, an updated prescription).Hope that was helpful.  Best wishes!

Botulinum toxin is a neuromodulator that, when properly administered, will relax dynamic muscles, such as the ones you are giving such a workout by inadvertently frowning. Once the muscle relaxes, the skin smooths out and the wrinkles tend to disappear. The relaxed muscle will not engage in frowning while the Botox is working, and so the wrinkle will not be reinforced. Most patients find that the effects of Botox can last from three to four months. Please consult with a board-certified dermatologist.