DAO Treatment in Folkestone & Sheerness
DAO treatment targets the Depressor Anguli Oris — the small muscle responsible for pulling the corners of the mouth downward. Over time, this muscle can contribute to a tired, sad, or stern appearance, even when you’re not making any particular expression.
At KBP Aesthetics, DAO treatment gently relaxes this muscle to lift the corners of the mouth and soften downturned expression lines, while preserving natural movement and a genuine smile. Available at our Folkestone and Sheerness clinics in Kent.
What Causes Downturned Mouth Corners?
Overactive DAO Muscle
In some people, this muscle is naturally more dominant, pulling the mouth corners down even at rest.
Age-Related Changes
As skin loses elasticity and volume shifts with age, the balance between muscles that lift and lower the mouth can shift, making downturned corners more pronounced.
Repeated Expression
Habitual expressions over time can reinforce the downward pull, contributing to more permanent-looking lines.
How DAO Treatment Works
A small amount of muscle-relaxing treatment is precisely injected into the DAO muscle at the corners of the jaw. By softening this muscle’s pull, the muscles that naturally lift the mouth corners (unopposed) become comparatively more dominant, resulting in a subtly lifted, more approachable mouth position — without affecting your ability to smile naturally.


Am I a Good Candidate for DAO Treatment?
DAO treatment tends to suit clients who feel their resting facial expression looks sadder, sterner, or more tired than how they actually feel — often described as “resting face” concerns around the mouth. During consultation, we’ll assess your muscle balance and facial anatomy to confirm whether DAO treatment alone, or in combination with other treatments like dermal filler or a Nefertiti Lift, will best achieve your goals.
Key Benefits of DAO Treatment?
- Softer, more lifted mouth corners
- Reduces a tired or stern resting expression
- Preserves natural smile and facial movement
- Quick, precise, in-clinic treatment
- Can be combined with other lower-face treatments for a more complete result
Aftercare Tips for Best Results
- Avoid touching or massaging the treated area for at least 24 hours
- Avoid strenuous exercise and excessive heat for 24–48 hours
- Avoid lying flat for several hours after treatment, if advised
- Results build over 1–2 weeks — avoid judging final results too early
- Contact us if you notice unusual asymmetry or weakness beyond expected settling
Why Choose KBP Aesthetics for Necklines Treatment
- Registered, experienced practitioner with specialist injectable training
- CE-marked products only, sourced from authorised UK suppliers
- Precise, conservative dosing to preserve natural smile and expression
- Transparent advice — including telling you if this isn't the right treatment for your goals
- Convenient clinics in Folkestone and Sheerness
Frequently Asked Questions
Results typically last 3–4 months, similar to other muscle-relaxing treatments.
When dosed precisely, DAO treatment targets only the downward-pulling muscle, preserving natural smiling and mouth movement — this precision is a key part of why practitioner experience matters for this treatment.
Initial changes are often visible within a few days, with full results developing over 1–2 weeks.
Most clients describe only mild, brief discomfort during treatment, as it involves a small, precise injection.
Yes. DAO treatment is often combined with dermal filler around the mouth or a Nefertiti Lift for a more complete rejuvenation of the lower face.
Most clients resume normal activities immediately, with minimal to no visible signs of treatment.
The goal is a subtle, natural lift — most clients find people simply notice they look more approachable or less tired, without being able to pinpoint why.
