Injectables have a reputation for being pricey, but not every tweakment has to blow your budget. Whether you’re a first-timer looking to test the waters or someone who wants a quick refresh without committing to a full face of wrinkle relaxer, there are effective options that fall under the $500 mark. From softening a gummy smile to smoothing a dimpled chin, dermatologists say these small treatments can offer big payoff without the big spend.
Featured Experts
- Dr. Mary Lupo is a board-certified dermatologist in New Orleans, LA
- Dr. Jenna Queller is a board-certified dermatologist in Boca Raton, FL
- Dr. Mariana Atanasovski is a board-certified dermatologist in Rochester, MI
- Dr. Amy Taub is a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago
- Dr. Linda Chung Honet is a board-certified dermatologist in Bloomfield, MI
1. Lip Flip
A few units of neurotoxin placed above the upper lip can subtly roll the lip upward, creating a fuller look without adding volume. “Neurotoxin for lip flip is in that price range,” says New Orleans dermatologist Mary Lupo, MD.
Boca Raton, FL dermatologist Jenna Queller, MD adds that a lip flip is a great way to enhance the lip without using filler.
2. Chin Tox
Also known as “pebble chin” treatment, this smooths out dimpling in the chin caused by overactive mentalis muscles. “It’s subtle but makes the face look more relaxed and youthful,” says Rochester, MI dermatologist Mariana Atanasovski, MD.
3. Gummy Smile Correction
Small doses of toxin can relax the upper lip so less gum shows when you smile. It’s fast, effective and easy to maintain. “We’re seeing great results with things like gummy smile correction for a softer more balanced smile,” says Dr. Queller.
4. To Correct Resting Frown Face
Strategic placement of toxin into the depressor anguli oris muscles can lift the corners of the mouth, softening a resting frown. “Neurotoxin can help lift a downturned mouth with strategic placement,” says Dr. Atanasovski.
5. “Baby Tox” or Microdosing
Using tiny amounts of toxin sprinkled across the forehead and around the eyes creates a naturally refreshed look without the frozen effect. “Baby tox is great for those wanting a refreshed look without full dosing,” says Dr. Queller.
6. Mini Lip Filler
A half syringe of hyaluronic acid filler can subtly plump the lips, enhance shape and boost hydration without going overboard. “Sometimes we do the ‘mini lip’ with a half syringe of filler. It gives the lips a perk glow-up,” says Chicago dermatologist Amy Taub, MD.
7. Spot-Treating Sun Spots
It’s not an injectable, but Bloomfield, MI dermatologist Linda Chung Honet, MD says one of the most underrated cosmetic treatments under $500 is liquid nitrogen for age spots. “It’s incredibly effective, but often overlooked,” she says. “Just be sure to have it done by a board-certified dermatologist, it’s powerful and can cause damage if used incorrectly.”
Whether it’s a small tweak or a soft lift, these low-dose treatments prove you don’t need a high price tag to make a difference.
