Brow Furrow
Brow Furrow: Definition, Causes, and Treatment
What is Brow Furrow?
Brow furrow refers to the vertical or horizontal lines that form between or above the eyebrows, commonly known as frown lines or “11 lines.” These creases develop due to repeated muscle contractions and natural aging processes, creating an appearance of worry, anger, or tiredness.
Causes
- Aging: Loss of collagen and elastin reduces skin elasticity, making lines more pronounced and less likely to fade when the face is at rest.
- Repetitive facial movements: Frequent frowning, squinting, or concentrating engage the glabellar muscles, deepening these lines over time.
- Stress and muscle tension: Chronic facial muscle tension can exacerbate furrow formation.
- Sun exposure: UV damage accelerates skin aging, contributing to wrinkle formation.
- Dehydration and poor skin care: Dry skin highlights and deepens furrows.
- Genetics: Some individuals naturally develop deeper brow lines earlier in life.
Treatment Options
- Botulinum toxin (Botox, Dysport): The most effective treatment for dynamic brow furrows, by relaxing the underlying muscles causing frown lines. Results appear within days and last 3–4 months, requiring regular maintenance.
- Dermal fillers: Used to soften static lines that remain visible even when muscles are relaxed by adding volume beneath the skin.
- Laser resurfacing and chemical peels: Promote collagen regeneration and improve skin texture to reduce furrow severity.
- Microneedling: Stimulates collagen production to improve overall skin firmness and smoothness.
- Brow lift surgery: For severe or persistent brow furrows combined with sagging, this surgical option repositions and tightens the brow area for long-lasting correction.
Prevention
- Regular use of sunscreen and UV protection
- Managing stress and avoiding excessive frowning or squinting
- Maintaining hydration and skin care routines with collagen-boosting ingredients
- Addressing vision problems to avoid squinting
Key Points
- Brow furrow lines occur due to aging, muscle movement, and environmental factors.
- Botox is the first-line treatment for dynamic furrows, with fillers and resurfacing for static lines.
- Surgical brow lifts offer permanent solutions for advanced cases.
- Prevention through sun protection and healthy habits enhances treatment effectiveness.
Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!
For personalized assessment and effective brow furrow management, consult our dermatology and cosmetic specialists who provide advanced treatments tailored to your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
References:
- Carruthers J, Carruthers A. Botulinum Toxin Type A for the Treatment of Glabellar Frown Lines: Safety, Efficacy, and Patient Satisfaction. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002 Dec;47(6):S15-19. doi:10.1067/mjd.2002.121179. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14507232/
- Park KY, Yi SY. Locking the Line of Convergence by Botulinum Toxin Type A for Forehead Wrinkles: A Novel Injection Technique. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022 Oct;21(10):4007-4014. doi:10.1111/jocd.15468. Available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.15468
- De Boulle K, et al. Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Botulinum Toxin for Glabellar Lines. Dermatol Surg. 2018 Oct;44(10):1437-1448. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000001432. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10374187/
- Monheit G, et al. Impact of DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Injection on Brow Position and Forehead Lines: Post Hoc Analysis. Dermatol Surg. 2023 Nov;49(11):S1-S11. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000003671. Available at: https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/43/Supplement_1/S1/6696343
- American Academy of Dermatology. Botulinum Toxin Injection for Facial Wrinkles: Clinical Review. Am Fam Physician. 2014 Jul 31;90(2):136-143. Available at: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2014/0801/p168.html
