13/04/2026
💉 The Science Behind Botulinum Toxin Type A: Dilution, Dosing & Real Treatment Outcomes
At Dr. Maricia, we believe great results come from precision — not just product. Understanding how we prepare and dose Botulinum Toxin Type A (BoNT-A) is key to natural, long-lasting outcomes without the “frozen” look.
Here’s what every patient should know:
1. Dilution (Reconstitution) – It Controls the Spread
BoNT-A comes as a powder in a vial (e.g. 100 units of Botox®). We mix it with sterile, preservative-free saline right before treatment.
Standard on-label dilution (Botox® 100U vial):
• 2.5 mL saline → 4 units per 0.1 mL (most common in aesthetics)
How dilution affects results:
• Less dilute (e.g. 1–2 mL) = higher concentration → precise, localised effect (ideal for small areas like crow’s feet or glabella).
• More dilute (e.g. 4+ mL) = lower concentration → broader diffusion (great for larger areas like forehead, but increases risk of affecting nearby muscles).
Pro tip: We tailor dilution per area and per patient. Too much spread can cause brow heaviness or uneven results. Too little can mean shorter duration.
2. Dosing – Units Are Not Interchangeable
Different brands of Botulinum Toxin Type A (BoNT-A) have their own unit systems. 1 unit of Botox® is not equivalent to 1 unit of Dysport® or Xeomin®.
Typical aesthetic dosing (Botox® / onabotulinumtoxinA):
• Glabellar lines (frown lines): 15–25 units
• Forehead lines: 10–20 units
• Crow’s feet (both eyes): 12–24 units
• Combined upper face treatment: 40–70 units for natural-looking results
Brand comparison:
Dysport® uses a different measurement. Roughly 2.5–3 Dysport units = 1 Botox unit.
Example: 20 units of Botox ≈ 50–60 units of Dysport.
Important: Dosing is always highly personalised. We assess muscle strength, facial anatomy, age, gender, skin thickness, and your treatment history before deciding on the exact number of units.
3. How Dilution + Dosing Directly Impact Your Outcomes
✅ Optimal dilution + precise dosing =
• Smoother, natural-looking relaxation
• Results lasting 3–4 months (sometimes longer with consistent treatment)
• Minimal risk of side effects
• “Rested” appearance instead of “frozen”
❌ Common mistakes that affect results:
• Over-dilution → excessive spread → drooping or asymmetry
• Under-dosing → weak effect + short duration (patients think “Botox didn’t work”)
• Over-dosing → heavy look, quicker return of movement in some cases
Bottom line: The best injector isn’t the one who uses the most units — it’s the one who uses the right amount, in the right concentration, in the right places.
This is why we customise every Full Face Revamp and toxin treatment at the clinic.
Important: This is educational information only. Results vary. Always consult a qualified medical doctor for personalised advice. Botulinum toxin treatments should only be performed by licensed professionals.
Save this for your next appointment! 👉
Have questions about your Tox plan? Drop them below or DM us to book a consultation. Booking link in bio.
