Treatments to Soften a Sad or Downturned Expression
Do people ask if you’re tired or upset- even when you feel absolutely fine?
It’s a common concern I hear in clinic: “I feel like my face looks sad all the time.” Often, it’s not about mood at all, but changes in facial structure, volume, and muscle dynamics that happen gradually as we age.
In this blog, I’m breaking down the three key treatments I use to help patients look fresher, more lifted, and less downturned- all while keeping results beautifully subtle and natural.
1. Toxin to Relax the DAO Muscle
The Depressor Anguli Oris (DAO) is a small muscle that runs from the corner of your mouth down toward the jawline. Its job? To pull the corners of the mouth downward- helping create expressions of sadness or displeasure.
Over time, and with repeated movement, this muscle can become overactive and tight- contributing to a permanently downturned expression, even when you’re happy and relaxed.
By injecting a small amount of toxin into this muscle, we can gently reduce that downward pull, allowing the corners of the mouth to rest in a more neutral or slightly lifted position. The results?
Softens a sad or frowning expression
Subtle and natural-looking results
No downtime, minimal discomfort
2. Filler for Marionette Lines and Corner Support
Marionette lines are the vertical lines that run from the corners of the mouth to the chin. Patients often describe them as giving a “puppet mouth” appearance.
These lines form due to a combination of volume loss, soft tissue descent, and muscle pull, and they can significantly contribute to a tired or unhappy facial expression.
Carefully placed dermal filler can:
Soften marionette lines
Support the corners of the mouth
Restore gentle structure to the lower face
It’s all about balance. I take a full-face approach to ensure results are harmonious and age-appropriate, avoiding heaviness or unnatural contours.
3. HArmonyCa to Lift and Stimulate Collagen
If you’re noticing heaviness or sagging around the jawline, HArmonyCa can be a game-changing treatment.
This innovative hybrid injectable combines Hyaluronic Acid (for instant volume and hydration) with Calcium Hydroxyapatite, a collagen stimulator that improves skin firmness and elasticity over time.
When injected into the **lateral face** (sides of the cheeks and jaw), it helps to:
Lift and tighten the lower face
Stimulate long-term collagen production
Reduce the appearance of marionette lines and heaviness
The result is a more defined, firmer jawline and a fresher, more rested expression.
Looking Less “Sad” Doesn’t Mean Looking Different
These treatments are not about changing how you look, they’re about restoring balance and helping your face reflect how you feel inside.
Whether it’s softening a harsh fold, releasing muscle tension, or supporting weakened structures, every treatment I offer is tailored to your natural anatomy and long-term skin health.
Book Your Personalised Consultation
If you’re ready to look as fresh and positive as you feel- I’d love to help.
📅 Click here to book your consultation today!
💬 Got questions first? Get in touch here and I’ll be happy to guide you.
Let’s work together to create subtle, confidence-boosting results, the kind that leave people saying, “You look so well!”
Bloomfield Aesthetics | Lymm, Cheshire
Led by a nurse prescriber and skin specialist with a background in dermatology, Bloomfield Aesthetics offers bespoke facial treatments with a focus on natural, long-term rejuvenation. All products are sourced from trusted UK pharmacies for safety and quality.
