Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which muscle is typically the target for Botox injections?

1. Frontalis muscle

2. Orbicularis oculi muscle

3. Corrugator muscle

4. Zygomaticus muscle

The correct answer is: Corrugator muscle

The corrugator muscle is a common target for Botox injections because it is primarily responsible for creating vertical lines between the eyebrows, often referred to as "frown lines" or "11s." When Botox is injected into this muscle, it temporarily relaxes its activity, smoothing out these lines and providing a more relaxed and youthful appearance. In aesthetic practice, the use of Botox aims to reduce the signs of aging and manage dynamics of facial expressions. While other muscles like the frontalis and orbicularis oculi also receive Botox injections for other aesthetic purposes—such as reducing forehead lines or crow's feet— the corrugator specifically addresses the furrowing of the brow that contributes to a more aged or tense appearance. The zygomaticus muscle, on the other hand, is primarily involved in smiling and is not typically targeted for Botox since injections in that area could impair natural facial expressions. Thus, the focus on the corrugator muscle highlights its significance in managing the appearance of frown lines, making it a popular choice for Botox treatments.