What should you know about frown lines between eyebrows?

Frown lines between the eyebrows are vertical creases that become more visible when the muscles used for concentrating, squinting, or frowning contract. They can remain visible when the face is relaxed as skin gradually loses flexibility. Their appearance is cosmetic for many people, but a new or changing mark should be assessed if it behaves unlike an ordinary wrinkle.

These creases are also called glabellar lines or ‘elevens’. Sun exposure can accelerate changes in collagen and elastin, while dry skin may make texture look sharper. Facial expressions are normal and do not indicate a serious illness. A careful assessment considers the depth of the lines, eyebrow movement, eyelid position, skin quality, and your preferred degree of movement.

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, sunglasses, moisturiser, and avoiding deliberate squinting can help limit further emphasis. A dermatologist or qualified aesthetic clinician may discuss botulinum toxin injection to reduce the muscle activity that folds the skin. Dermal fillers may be considered for selected static depressions, but the area between the eyebrows needs particularly careful assessment because injection risks vary by anatomy. Treatment should be tailored after an examination, with realistic expectations about maintenance and possible side effects.

Arrange a clinical review if the change is sudden, one-sided, painful, swollen, itchy, bleeding, crusted, or associated with weakness, vision change, or another new facial symptom. Seek urgent help for sudden facial weakness or sudden vision symptoms. Otherwise, book a routine consultation when the lines bother you or when you want advice about safe options for your skin and facial movement.

Ask which muscle movement and skin changes contribute to your lines, whether skincare alone is reasonable, which treatment fits your anatomy, how long effects may last, and what temporary reactions or uncommon risks to watch for. Ask who will perform the procedure and what follow-up is available.