How to treat forehead lines and avoid dropping your eyebrow height  

Updated on 06/08/2025

Forehead lines are among the most common signs of facial ageing, appearing as horizontal creases that stretch across the upper face. While these lines are a natural part of the ageing process, they can sometimes make us appear older, tired, or more serious than we feel. At Cityskin, we understand that treating forehead lines effectively requires more than just smoothing out wrinkles – it’s about maintaining natural facial harmony and ensuring your eyebrows stay in their ideal position.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about forehead line treatments, the critical relationship between forehead muscles and eyebrow position, and how skilled practitioners can help you achieve a refreshed, natural-looking result without compromising your eyebrow height.

Understanding Forehead Lines: What Causes Them?

Forehead lines, also known as forehead furrows or horizontal forehead wrinkles, develop due to a combination of factors that occur naturally as we age. Understanding these causes helps explain why treatment requires such a nuanced approach.

The Role of Facial Muscles

Your forehead contains several important muscles that work together to create facial expressions. The frontalis muscle is the primary muscle responsible for raising your eyebrows and creating surprised or concerned expressions. When this muscle contracts repeatedly over the years, it causes horizontal lines to form across your forehead.

Working in opposition to the frontalis muscle are the depressor muscles around your eyes and between your eyebrows, including the corrugator supercilii and procerus muscles. These muscles pull your eyebrows downward when you frown or concentrate. This constant interplay between lifting and lowering muscles creates a delicate balance that maintains your natural eyebrow position.

Age-Related Changes

As we age, several changes occur that make forehead lines more prominent:

Collagen Loss: Starting in our 30s, we lose approximately 1% of our collagen each year. Collagen provides skin elasticity and firmness, so as it decreases, our skin becomes less able to bounce back from repeated muscle contractions.

Skin Thinning: The outer layer of skin gradually becomes thinner with age, making underlying muscle movements more visible as permanent lines.

Volume Loss: The forehead can lose volume over time, causing the skin to appear more hollow and making lines more pronounced.

Weakened Support Structures: The tissues that support our facial features gradually weaken, contributing to sagging and the formation of deeper lines.

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Several external factors can accelerate the development of forehead lines:

• Sun exposure: UV rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to premature skin ageing
• Smoking: Reduces collagen production and restricts blood flow to the skin
• Repetitive expressions: Frequent raising of eyebrows due to vision problems, concentration, or habit
• Poor skincare: Inadequate protection and hydration can accelerate skin ageing

The Critical Balance: Why Eyebrow Position Matters

One of the most important aspects of forehead line treatment is understanding how the muscles work together to maintain eyebrow position. This balance is crucial for several reasons:

Natural Facial Harmony

Your eyebrows frame your eyes and play a significant role in facial expression and attractiveness. The ideal eyebrow position varies between individuals but generally sits at or slightly above the orbital rim (the bony edge above your eye socket). When this position is altered, it can dramatically change your appearance.

The Muscle Balance System

Think of your eyebrow position as being controlled by a sophisticated pulley system:

Lifting Forces: The frontalis muscle acts like the upward pulley, constantly working to lift and support your eyebrows, especially when you’re alert or expressing surprise.

Lowering Forces: The muscles around your eyes (orbicularis oculi) and between your eyebrows (glabellar complex) act like downward pulleys, pulling your eyebrows down when you frown, squint, or concentrate.

Gravity: Always working to pull everything downward, becoming more noticeable as skin loses elasticity with age.

In a young face, these forces are perfectly balanced. However, when we treat only the frontalis muscle with wrinkle-relaxing injections, we risk disrupting this balance.

What Happens When Balance Is Disrupted

If we treat the forehead lines by relaxing only the frontalis muscle, several problematic changes can occur:

Eyebrow Ptosis (Drooping): Without the lifting action of the frontalis muscle, the downward-pulling muscles and gravity can cause the eyebrows to drop to an unnatural position. This condition, known medically as brow ptosis, can significantly impact facial appearance.

Heavy, Hooded Appearance: Drooped eyebrows can create excess skin over the upper eyelids, making the eyes appear smaller and the face look tired or sad.

Loss of Expression: Over-treatment of the frontalis muscle can create a “frozen” appearance where you cannot raise your eyebrows naturally.

Asymmetry: Uneven treatment can cause one eyebrow to sit higher or lower than the other, creating an unbalanced appearance.

The Science Behind Effective Forehead Treatment

Successful forehead line treatment requires understanding not just what to treat, but how to treat it while maintaining natural muscle balance and eyebrow position.

The Comprehensive Approach

At Cityskin, we follow a comprehensive approach that considers the entire upper face as an integrated system:

Simultaneous Treatment: We typically treat both the forehead lines (frontalis muscle) and the frown lines (glabellar complex) in the same session. This maintains the natural balance between lifting and lowering forces.

Strategic Injection Placement: Injections are placed at specific points and depths to achieve optimal muscle relaxation while preserving essential muscle function.

Customised Dosing: The amount of product used is carefully calculated based on your individual muscle strength, skin thickness, and desired outcome.

Staged Treatment: For some patients, we may recommend treating the frown area first and reassessing the forehead in a follow-up appointment, especially if there are concerns about eyebrow position.

Injection Technique and Placement

The precise placement of injections is crucial for achieving natural-looking results:

Height Consideration: Injections are placed at mid-forehead or above, typically at least 2cm above the eyebrow. In older patients or those with skin laxity, injections may be placed even higher (4cm above the eyebrow) to prevent drooping.

Depth Matters: Some practitioners prefer intradermal (within the skin) rather than intramuscular (into the muscle) injections for the forehead, as this may reduce the risk of eyebrow ptosis while still achieving good results.

Avoiding Danger Zones: Experienced practitioners know to avoid certain areas where injections could affect adjacent muscles or cause unwanted effects.

Treatment Options for Forehead Lines

Several treatment options are available for addressing forehead lines, each with its own benefits and considerations.

Wrinkle-Relaxing Injections (Anti-Wrinkle Treatment)

This is the most common and effective treatment for forehead lines. The treatment works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to the frontalis muscle, reducing its ability to contract and create horizontal lines.

How It Works: A purified protein is injected into specific points along the forehead muscle. Over 7-14 days, this gradually reduces muscle activity, allowing existing lines to soften and preventing new ones from forming.

Treatment Process: The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes and involves multiple small injections across the forehead. Most people experience minimal discomfort, often described as a small pinprick sensation.

Results Timeline: Initial effects may be visible within 3-7 days, with full results apparent after 2 weeks. Results typically last 3-4 months, though some people may experience longer-lasting effects with regular treatments.

Advantages: Non-surgical, minimal downtime, natural-looking results when performed correctly, and relatively affordable compared to surgical options.

Volume Enhancement Treatments (Dermal Fillers)

In some cases, particularly when forehead lines are deeply etched, dermal fillers may be used either alone or in combination with anti-wrinkle treatments.

When Fillers Are Used: Deep, permanent lines that remain visible even when the face is at rest may benefit from volume enhancement to literally fill in the depression created by the line.

Treatment Approach: Usually requires multiple sessions to gradually build up the area and achieve natural-looking results. The filler is placed carefully beneath the deep line to lift and smooth the skin surface.

Combination Therapy: Often, fillers are used first to address the deep line, followed by anti-wrinkle treatment to prevent the muscle contractions that created the line in the first place.

Duration: Results typically last 9-12 months, depending on the type of filler used and individual metabolism.

Surgical Options

For severe cases where non-surgical treatments are insufficient, surgical options may be considered:

Brow Lift: A surgical procedure that physically lifts and repositions the eyebrows and forehead skin. This can address both forehead lines and eyebrow drooping simultaneously.

Forehead Lift: Similar to a brow lift but focuses more specifically on smoothing forehead wrinkles through surgical removal or repositioning of excess skin.

These options are more invasive, expensive, and require significant recovery time, but they provide permanent results.

Preventing Eyebrow Ptosis: Key Strategies

Preventing eyebrow drooping during forehead treatment requires careful planning and execution by an experienced practitioner.

Pre-Treatment Assessment

A thorough assessment is crucial before any forehead treatment:

Anatomical Evaluation: Your practitioner should carefully examine your eyebrow position, forehead height, muscle strength, and any existing asymmetries.

Functional Testing: You may be asked to make various facial expressions so the practitioner can observe how your muscles work and identify the best injection points.

Medical History: Understanding any previous treatments, medical conditions, or medications that might affect treatment outcomes.

Expectation Setting: Discussing your goals and ensuring they’re realistic and achievable with the chosen treatment approach.

Treatment Principles

Several key principles guide safe and effective forehead treatment:

Never Treat in Isolation: The forehead should rarely, if ever, be treated without also addressing the frown area. This maintains the natural balance between opposing muscle groups.

Conservative Approach: It’s better to under-treat initially and add more product at a follow-up appointment than to over-treat and risk complications.

Proper Injection Height: Maintaining appropriate distance from the eyebrows prevents unwanted diffusion of product into muscles that support eyebrow position.

Staged Treatment: For complex cases or first-time patients, treating in stages allows for assessment and adjustment of the approach.

Managing High-Risk Patients

Some patients are at higher risk for eyebrow ptosis and require special consideration:

Patients with Heavy Eyebrows: Those who naturally have low-set or heavy eyebrows may be more susceptible to drooping.

Previous Surgery Patients: Those who have had upper eyelid surgery or other facial procedures may have altered anatomy.

Significant Skin Laxity: Older patients or those with significant forehead skin laxity may need modified treatment approaches.

Strong Frontalis Muscle: Patients who habitually use their forehead muscle to lift drooping eyebrows may not be good candidates for aggressive forehead treatment.

What to Expect During Treatment

Understanding the treatment process helps ensure the best possible outcome and reduces anxiety about the procedure.

Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where your practitioner will:

• Assess your facial anatomy and skin condition
• Discuss your concerns and aesthetic goals
• Explain treatment options and expected outcomes
• Review medical history and contraindications
• Take photographs for reference
• Provide detailed aftercare instructions

At Cityskin, we offer complimentary 30-minute consultations for new patients, allowing plenty of time to address all your questions and concerns.

The Treatment Process

On the day of your treatment:

Preparation: The treatment area is cleaned, and injection points are marked based on your individual anatomy.

Injection Process: Multiple small injections are made across the forehead using a very fine needle. The entire process typically takes 15-30 minutes.

Immediate Aftercare: You’ll receive specific instructions about activities to avoid and what to expect in the coming days.

Follow-up Scheduling: A review appointment is typically scheduled for 2 weeks post-treatment to assess results and make any necessary adjustments.

Recovery and Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for optimal results and complication prevention:

Immediate Post-Treatment (First 24 Hours):

• Avoid lying flat for 4 hours after treatment
• Don’t massage or apply pressure to treated areas
• Avoid strenuous exercise
• Stay upright as much as possible
• Avoid alcohol consumption

First Week:

• Gentle skincare routine only
• Avoid saunas, hot tubs, or intense heat
• Avoid facials or other facial treatments

Ongoing Care:

• Maintain good skincare routine with sun protection
• Attend scheduled follow-up appointments
• Report any concerns to your practitioner promptly

Recognising and Managing Complications

While complications from forehead treatment are relatively rare when performed by experienced practitioners, it’s important to understand potential issues and how they’re managed.

Signs of Eyebrow Ptosis

Eyebrow drooping typically becomes apparent 3-7 days after treatment and may include:

• Feeling of heaviness across the forehead
• Difficulty applying makeup to the eye area
• Tired or sad appearance
• Asymmetry between eyebrows
• Upper eyelid hooding

Treatment Options for Ptosis

If eyebrow drooping occurs, several management options are available:

Additional Strategic Injections: Small amounts of anti-wrinkle treatment can be placed in specific muscles to counteract the drooping effect.

Eye Drops: In cases of eyelid ptosis, special eye drops may provide temporary improvement.

Time: Most cases of ptosis resolve naturally as the treatment effect wears off, typically within 4-6 weeks for eyebrow ptosis and 3-4 weeks for eyelid ptosis.

Corrective Treatments: Experienced practitioners can often improve ptosis without waiting for the original treatment to wear off completely.

When to Seek Help

Contact your practitioner if you experience:

• Severe or worsening drooping
• Vision problems
• Severe asymmetry
• Signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling that worsens)
• Any concerning symptoms

The Importance of Choosing the Right Practitioner

The success of forehead line treatment and the prevention of complications heavily depends on the skill and experience of your practitioner.

What to Look For

When selecting a practitioner for forehead treatment, consider:

Qualifications and Training: Look for medically qualified practitioners (doctors or nurses) with specific training in cosmetic injectable treatments.

Experience: Ask about their experience with forehead treatments specifically, including how they handle complications.

Before and After Photos: Review examples of their work, paying particular attention to natural-looking results.

Comprehensive Consultations: A good practitioner will take time to assess your anatomy thoroughly and discuss all aspects of treatment.

Follow-up Care: Ensure they provide adequate follow-up care and are available to address any concerns.

Red Flags to Avoid

Be cautious of practitioners who:

• Offer treatments at unusually low prices
• Don’t provide thorough consultations
• Promise unrealistic results
• Don’t discuss potential complications
• Have limited medical training or qualifications
• Don’t offer follow-up appointments

Maintaining Your Results

Achieving great results from forehead line treatment is just the beginning – maintaining those results requires ongoing care and attention.

Treatment Scheduling

Regular Appointments: Most patients benefit from treatments every 3-4 months to maintain optimal results.

Seasonal Considerations: Some people prefer to time treatments around important events or seasons when they’ll be more socially active.

Progressive Improvement: With regular treatments, many patients find that results last longer and require less frequent touch-ups over time.

Complementary Skincare

Supporting your treatment results with good skincare can enhance and extend your outcomes:

Sun Protection: Daily use of broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is essential for preventing further damage.

Retinoids: When appropriate (not during pregnancy or breastfeeding), retinoid products can support skin renewal and collagen production.

Moisturising: Keeping skin well-hydrated helps maintain elasticity and overall appearance.

Professional Treatments: Occasional facials, chemical peels, or other skin treatments can complement your injectable treatments.

Lifestyle Factors

Several lifestyle choices can impact the longevity of your results:

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated supports skin health and treatment longevity.

Nutrition: A diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins supports skin health and healing.

Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for skin repair and regeneration.

Stress Management: Chronic stress can accelerate ageing and affect treatment outcomes.

Advanced Techniques and Innovations

The field of cosmetic injectables continues to evolve, with new techniques and products regularly emerging.

Micro-Dosing Techniques

Some practitioners now use micro-dosing approaches, using smaller amounts of product placed more precisely to achieve natural-looking results with minimal risk of side effects. This approach comes at a cost of results not lasting as long as full-dose treatments, however.

Combination Approaches

Modern treatment often involves combining different techniques:

• Anti-wrinkle treatments with dermal fillers
• Injectable treatments with energy-based devices
• Staged treatments addressing different areas progressively

Cost Considerations

Understanding the investment involved in forehead line treatment helps with planning and budgeting.

Factors Affecting Cost

Several factors influence treatment cost:

• Product Used: Different brands and formulations have varying costs
• Amount Required: Based on your individual anatomy and treatment goals
• Practitioner Experience: More experienced practitioners typically charge premium rates
• Location: Urban clinic locations often have higher overhead costs
• Follow-up Care: Comprehensive aftercare may be included in the initial cost

Value vs. Price

When considering cost, remember that:

• Cheaper isn’t always better when it comes to cosmetic treatments
• Correcting complications can be more expensive than proper initial treatment
• Experienced practitioners may achieve better results with less product
• Good results that last longer provide better value over time

Taking the Next Step

If you’re considering forehead line treatment, the most important step is to schedule a consultation with an experienced, qualified practitioner who can assess your individual needs and recommend the best approach for your goals.

At Cityskin, we pride ourselves on being one of Melbourne’s most trusted cosmetic clinics, with a team of experienced doctors and nurses who specialise in achieving natural-looking results. Our comprehensive approach ensures that your forehead treatment not only smooths lines but maintains your natural eyebrow position and facial harmony.

Ready to start your journey towards smoother, more youthful-looking skin?

Contact Cityskin today to schedule your complimentary 30-minute consultation. Our expert team is ready to answer all your questions and develop a personalised treatment plan that achieves your aesthetic goals safely and effectively.

Whether you’re just beginning to notice forehead lines or seeking to improve previous treatment results, we’re here to help you look and feel your absolute best. Book your consultation online or call us at 1800 248 975 to take the first step towards rejuvenated, confident-looking skin.

The information in this blog article should not be considered medical advice. Individual results may vary, and it’s important to discuss your specific concerns and medical history with a qualified practitioner during your consultation.