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DAO (Smile Lift)
A DAO treatment softens a downturned expression by relaxing the muscles that pull the corners of the mouth downward. This quick, subtle lift creates a more natural, friendly, and refreshed appearance.
How It Works
DAO (Depressor Anguli Oris) smile lift treatment uses targeted neuromodulator injections — such as XEOMIN® or Botox® — to relax the muscles that pull down the corners of your mouth. One of our experts precisely injects the product into the DAO muscles, gently releasing downward tension. This allows the corners of your mouth to lift naturally, restoring a more relaxed, uplifted, and pleasant smile — without affecting your natural facial expressions.
What It Targets
The DAO smile lift is designed to address:
- Downturned mouth corners (resting “sad” appearance)
- Frown lines at the mouth edges (marionette lines)
- Desire for a brighter, more approachable smile
Benefits
Experience a more youthful, positive look:
- Subtly lifted mouth corners for an instantly brighter expression
- Softened lines and smoother lower face
- Completely natural movement — no “frozen” look
- Quick, comfortable sessions with little to no downtime
- Results are customizable and last for several months for a refreshed, confident smile
Experience the best in aesthetic and wellness care at Better Med Spa. Our personalized treatments are tailored to you, designed to help you look and feel your absolute best with confidence and ease.
Questions?
We're here to answer your questions and provide the best services for your needs.
Who is a good candidate for a smile lift treatment?
Anyone noticing a downturned mouth, marionette lines, or wanting to look more approachable and refreshed is a good candidate. This is especially popular for those whose neutral facial expression appears sad or tired.
Is a smile lift treatment painful?
Most people experience minimal discomfort; numbing cream can be applied, and the injections themselves are quick and well-tolerated.
Is there any downtime for a smile lift?
There’s little to no downtime! Mild swelling or redness at the injection site is common but resolves quickly — most return to normal activities the same day.
Can a DAO smile lift be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely! Many people combine it with other injectables, skin resurfacing, or facial contouring treatments for a full-face rejuvenation. We recommend booking a skin consultation so one of our experts can analyze your skin and create a custom treatment plan to help you reach your skin goals.
Past Client Experiences
"I have noticed a significant difference in the overall appearance of my skin and my friends and family have as well. I am excited to come in for follow-up sessions!"
"I came in 2 weeks ago for their Green Peel, which is a natural facial peel formulated with algae. It was my first time doing a skin peel so I was a bit anxious, but my tech Priscilla did a great job of informing me about the treatment throughout the process and about the aftercare."
"Overall - phenomenal experience. Staff from the estheticians to the front desk were so knowledgeable and kind."
"I got the Personalized Facial with a complimentary skin consultation with Xia. And it was so beyond amazing. This was by far one of the most intensive facials that I have ever gotten and I loved how much attention to detail Xia had throughout our entire session."
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"Outstanding service and spa."
"The Glass Facial was amazing. They specialize in Korean Beauty and only use products gentle for your skin unlike many Western treatments. My skin looks great even days later. I still have a glow and glass look with just simple skin care and moisturizing like I normally do. I definitely recommend this salon and suggest you try the K-Beauty services!"
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"This is definitely a place I trust and will keep coming back to for my future skincare treatments. Plus, reasonable price! Highly recommended!"
"It has been a month since I got Rejuran, and at least six people have complimented my skin since then! Izzy is amazing, her technique is professional and surprisingly painless, but what impressed me the most is her sense of aesthetics. She really listened to what I wanted, communicated actively with me, and confirmed everything carefully until I felt completely comfortable."
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"The spa was clean, relaxing, and welcoming. My skin feels so smooth and fresh, and I left glowing."
"I had my very first facial today with Hailey and it was such a great experience! I booked the aromatherapy, dermaplaning, glass skin facial, and LED light treatment, and she walked me through every step so I felt comfortable the whole time. She made sure I was comfortable and explained what each product was doing. I’ll definitely be coming back and recommending this place to friends!"
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"I am so grateful that I did my facial treatment at Better Med Spa, the place is very cozy and they are all professional with a warm personality."
"I had my facial treatment with Hailey. She provided me with comprehensive information about facial and its effects on my skin. I’m so happy, satisfied and delighted with the result. Her kindness and outstanding professionalism are truly INCREDIBLE."
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"From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming and relaxing. I noticed an immediate glow to my skin and am excited to see the long-term results as my skin continues to heal. Highly recommend!"
"My esthetician was incredibly nice and took the time to explain the entire process to me, which really put me at ease. I appreciated how she tailored the treatment to my skin's needs, ensuring I received the best possible results. After the session, she provided me with thorough aftercare instructions, which I found very helpful."
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"I went in with no clear expectations because it isn't something that I've ever done before. I will definitely be doing it again every time I'm in Chicago for another visit."
"Grace did a fantastic job. I don't have anything to compare it with, but the full service felt amazing. I was surprised by the number of steps included and how involved it ended up being. Head massage, facial massage, neck and shoulder massage, forearm and hand massage, all while working through multiple steps of the facial cleanse and treatment process. It was great. I'll be back again."
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"Loved my experience at Better Med Spa! Super friendly, very informative, and excellent at what they do."
"Went in for microneedling and EZ Gel. I felt confident and comfortable the whole time. Highly recommend!"
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"I absolutely look forward to coming here every month to get service by the wonderful ladies who work at this spa."
"The results are truly unbelievable and I’m left speechless each time I leave. I would highly recommend buying a membership it helps you pour into yourself monthly and the results and satisfaction won’t disappoint!"
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