Understanding Botulinum Toxin Units and Touch-Ups

The amount of units define natural or "frozen" results, adjustment after treatment is possible.

Botulinum toxin works by relaxing muscles to smooth out fine lines. But what exactly is a botulinum toxin unit, and how many do I need?

Feb 18, 2025

Botulinum toxin bottles and syringes on a blue background.
Botulinum toxin bottles and syringes on a blue background.

What is a Botulinum Toxin Unit?

botulinum toxin unit measures the strength of the toxin, not its volume. Different brands of botulinum toxin, such as Bocouture® (marketed as Xeomin® outside Benelux), Vistabel® (known as Botox® in the United States), and Dysport® use different unit systems to indicate their potency. As such, the number of units required to treat a specific area depends on their brand-defined potency.

For example, if one brand's unit is more potent than another, fewer units may be needed to achieve the same results in a specific treatment area. This means that the number of units can vary from brand to brand while still delivering the same end result. However, the total price of your treatment at Cuveele's Clinic remains competitive and does not change based on the brand used. This is because more potent units are priced higher, while less potent units are more affordable.

The unit prices listed on our website are based on Bocouture® from Merz Aesthetics, which is the most commonly used botulinum toxin brand at Cuveele's Clinic. If you request the use of another brand, we will provide you with the corresponding unit prices.

Natural vs. Frozen: How the Number of Units Affects Your Look

The amount of botulinum toxin used directly influences your appearance.

  • Natural results: A moderate number of units relaxes the muscles just enough to soften wrinkles while maintaining facial expressions. You’ll look refreshed without appearing overdone.

  • Frozen look: A higher number of units further reduces muscle movement, leading to a smoother but less expressive look. Some patients prefer this effect for certain areas.

By default, at Cuveele's Clinic, we strive for natural results. However, if you desire a stronger effect, additional units can be administered at a fixed price per unit.

How Many Units Do You Need?

The required number of units varies per person based on factors like muscle strength, wrinkle depth, and aesthetic or medical goals. Because of this, our prices are indicative and can change depending on how many units are actually needed.

Before the start of your treatment, we assess your needs and discuss your desired outcome. Whether you prefer a subtle refresh or a more pronounced result, we customize your treatment accordingly. The total price of your treatment will always be communicated in advance—no surprises at checkout!

Touch-Up Treatments: Fine-Tuning Your Results

If, after your initial treatment, you feel a stronger result is needed, a touch-up is possible. However, we recommend waiting at least two weeks before deciding on adjustments. This allows time for the full effects to become visible.

The exact number of additional units required for your touch-up will be determined on-site by your aesthetic doctor. This ensures that you receive the precise amount needed to achieve your desired outcome without overcorrection. Touch-ups are available at a fixed price per unit, allowing flexibility in refining your look. Whether you want a bit more relaxation in a specific area or a stronger overall effect, we're here to help you achieve your ideal result.

Conclusion

At Cuveele's Clinic, we believe in enhancing your natural beauty with customized botulinum toxin treatments. The number of units used determines whether your results are subtle or more pronounced, and we offer the flexibility to adjust as needed. Interested in a botulinum toxin or other aesthetic treatment at Cuveele's Clinic? You can easily book your appointment via our website. We look forward to meeting you!