The Short Answer
Brotox and Botox are the same product. "Brotox" is simply a marketing term for Botox administered to men. However, the way it's administered should differ significantly.
Same Product, Different Approach
The Product
Both use botulinum toxin type A manufactured by Allergan under the brand name Botox Cosmetic. The formulation is identical regardless of the patient's gender.
The Technique
This is where the real difference lies. Experienced providers adjust their approach for male patients:
Injection patterns — Men's facial muscles are positioned differently and are typically larger.
Unit counts — Men generally need 20-30% more product due to stronger muscles.
Aesthetic goals — Male treatment focuses on maintaining masculine features while softening lines.
Key Anatomical Differences
Muscle Mass
Men have significantly more facial muscle mass:
- Larger frontalis (forehead) muscle
- Stronger corrugator (frown line) muscles
- More robust orbicularis oculi (eye area)
This requires more units to achieve the same effect.
Skin Thickness
Male skin is approximately 25% thicker than female skin. This affects:
- How wrinkles form and appear
- How the product diffuses
- Treatment depth considerations
Facial Structure
Men typically have:
- Stronger brow bone
- More angular jaw
- Different fat distribution
- Lower, straighter eyebrow position
Treatment Considerations for Men
Maintaining Masculinity
The biggest concern for most men is looking "done" or feminized. Proper male treatment:
- Preserves the natural brow position (not arched)
- Maintains some forehead movement
- Keeps angular features intact
- Aims for subtle, not dramatic, results
Common Male Treatment Areas
| Area | Male Considerations |
|---|---|
| Forehead | More units needed; avoid over-treating to prevent heavy brow |
| Frown lines | Primary concern for many men; higher doses required |
| Crow's feet | Often less of a priority; treated more subtly |
| Jawline | Masseter treatment popular for slimming or teeth grinding |
Dosing Differences
Typical unit requirements:
| Area | Women | Men |
|---|---|---|
| Forehead | 10-20 units | 15-30 units |
| Frown lines | 15-25 units | 20-40 units |
| Crow's feet | 12-20 units | 16-24 units |
Finding a Male-Focused Provider
Not all providers are experienced with male patients. Look for:
Experience Indicators
- Male patients in before/after gallery
- Specific mention of male treatments
- Understanding of male aesthetic goals
- Conservative initial approach
Questions to Ask
- What percentage of your patients are men?
- How do you adjust technique for male patients?
- Can I see before/after photos of male patients?
- How do you ensure natural, masculine results?
The Marketing of "Brotox"
Why the Term Exists
"Brotox" emerged to:
- Make Botox more approachable for men
- Address the stigma some men feel
- Market to a growing male demographic
- Acknowledge that men have specific needs
Does the Term Matter?
Not really. What matters is:
- Provider expertise with male patients
- Appropriate technique adjustments
- Understanding of male aesthetic goals
- Natural, masculine results
Other Injectable Options
While Botox is most common, alternatives include:
Dysport
- Faster onset (2-3 days vs. 5-7)
- May spread more (good or bad depending on area)
- Often slightly less expensive
Xeomin
- "Naked" neurotoxin (no complexing proteins)
- May reduce antibody formation
- Similar results to Botox
Jeuveau
- Newer option marketed to millennials
- Comparable to Botox
- Competitive pricing
All work similarly and can be used for men.
The Bottom Line
There's no separate "Brotox" product — it's all the same Botox. What makes male treatment different is the expertise of your provider in:
- Understanding male facial anatomy
- Adjusting dosing appropriately
- Maintaining masculine aesthetics
- Delivering subtle, natural results
When choosing a provider, focus less on whether they market "Brotox" and more on their experience and approach with male patients.
Ready to find an experienced provider? Check our directory of male-friendly practitioners.
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