While men and women often pursue Botox® for similar reasons—such as softening lines, preventing deeper wrinkles, or enhancing overall facial appearance—providers emphasize that treatment plans typically differ based on gender-specific anatomy. Men generally have stronger facial muscles, which often means they require higher doses to achieve the same level of muscle relaxation and aesthetic effect as women.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bruce Hermann shared that dosage differences are especially noticeable in the glabellar area (the frown lines between the brows). “For example, in the glabellar area, for a similar effect, I start women with about 15 units of Botox and go up as needed to achieve the desired result,” he explained. “For men, I would normally recommend starting with 20 units and adjusting from there.”
Dr. Hermann also noted that men often prefer a more “subtle effect” and therefore require a treatment approach tailored to their aesthetic goals. He typically uses higher dosages concentrated within a smaller surface area to maintain a natural, masculine expression. As demand increases, he anticipates that both men and women will continue seeking cosmetic procedures that address similar aging concerns while aligning with individual preferences.
