A Study of Glabellar Contraction Patterns in African Descendants

J Drugs Dermatol. 2025 Jan 1;24(1):57-63. doi: 10.36849/JDD.8503.

Abstract

Background: Botulinum toxin is a well-established treatment for dynamic glabellar lines. Glabellar contraction patterns were described previously in the general Brazilian population and also among Koreans, Chinese, and Indian individuals. So far, no study has addressed glabellar contraction "patterns" in Black subjects.

Objective: To identify the glabellar contraction patterns in the Black population for a better treatment approach with botulinum toxin treatment.

Method: Pairs of photographs - at rest and under contraction - from 103 Black patients were analyzed according to a previously described classification based on the predominance of eyebrow approximation, depression, or elevation movements.

Results: The 5 glabellar contraction patterns described previously - "U," "V," "convergent arrows," "omega," and "inverted omega" - could be identified in these patients.

Conclusion: The classification of glabellar wrinkles enables a more accurate individualized treatment with botulinum toxin in Black subjects, in addition to other ethnic groups. J Drugs Dermatol. 2025;24(1):57-63. doi:10.36849/JDD.8503.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Black People*
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / administration & dosage
  • Cosmetic Techniques
  • Female
  • Forehead*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Photography*
  • Skin Aging* / drug effects

Substances

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A