What are Bunny Lines? And can Botox reduce their appearance?

When it comes to our facial features, we often focus on wrinkles, crow’s feet, and frown lines. However, Bunny Lines, are another common ageing concern that we don’t hear about as much. These lines, also known as “scrunch lines,” can appear on the sides of the nose when we smile or make certain facial expressions. Fortunately, there is a cosmetic solution available that can help minimise their appearance: Botox. In this blog post, we will explore bunny lines, their causes, and how Botox can effectively reduce their visibility.

What are bunny lines?

Bunny lines are diagonal lines that form on the upper part of the nose, usually near the bridge. They get their name due to their resemblance to the wrinkling of a bunny’s nose when it moves or twitches. Bunny lines are typically more noticeable when we smile, laugh, or make facial expressions. Whilst they are a natural part of facial movement, some individuals may find them bothersome or wish to reduce their prominence.

The nasalis muscle is responsible for scrunching or wrinkling the nose when we make certain facial expressions. Over time, the repeated contraction of this muscle around the nose causes the skin to lose elasticity and form fine lines. Bunny lines can also be caused by sun damage, genetics, and environmental factors like smoking or sun exposure.

How does Botox reduce their appearance?

Botox, short for botulinum toxin, is a popular and FDA-approved treatment for various cosmetic concerns, including bunny lines. It works by temporarily paralysing the muscles responsible for creating these lines, thus reducing their visibility. The injected Botox formulation blocks the nerve signals to the targeted muscles, preventing them from contracting and forming wrinkles.

The procedure is relatively simple and quick. Our practitioner will use a fine needle to inject the Botox into the targeted muscles around your nose. You may experience some temporary slight discomfort or a fleeting prick sensation, but our patients find this is very tolerable.

When will I see results?

Following treatment, it may take a few days to notice the initial effects. The full results typically become apparent within one to two weeks. You will experience a significant reduction in the appearance of bunny lines, achieving a smoother and more youthful-looking nose. The duration of the effects varies from person to person but generally lasts for three to four months. Regular maintenance treatments can help maintain the desired results over time.

Can Bunny Lines be prevented?

Avoiding scrunching your nose is the first thing, but that isn’t always realistic. All wrinkles are a natural part of the ageing process, so it can be difficult to prevent them entirely. If you’re a nose-crinkler and you know it, you can be conscious of your repeated facial expressions and try to avoid scrunching your nose as much as possible. A good anti-ageing skincare regime is always beneficial. Consider incorporating a retinoid into your routine, making sure to apply it on the sides of the nose. Additionally, you can receive preventative Botox injections in the area to relax the muscles and limit repeated expressions.

If you’d like to understand more about Botox for Bunny Lines, and whether it’s right for you, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.