Corrugator supercilii
Musculus corrugator supercilii
Also known as: corrugator, frown muscle
A small pyramidal muscle deep to frontalis. It pulls the eyebrows medially and down, producing vertical frown lines.
Overview
Corrugator supercilii runs from the medial end of the superciliary arch laterally and upward into the skin of the middle of the eyebrow, deep to frontalis and orbicularis oculi. It draws the eyebrows together and down, creating the vertical "glabellar" frown lines. These lines, together with the horizontal ones made by procerus, are a common target for cosmetic botulinum toxin. Its action also shades the eyes from bright light.
Anatomy
- Origin
Medial end of the superciliary arch of the frontal bone.
- Insertion
Deep surface of the skin above the middle of the supraorbital margin.
- Action
Pulls the eyebrows medially and down, producing vertical glabellar wrinkles.
- Innervation
Facial nerve (CN VII), temporal branch.
- Nerve roots
Cranial nerve VII; no spinal roots
- Arterial supply
Supraorbital and supratrochlear arteries; superficial temporal artery.
Function
- Draws the eyebrows medially and inferiorly (frowning)
- Shades the eyes from glare
Clinical significance
Glabellar botulinum toxin
Injecting the corrugator and procerus softens frown lines. If the toxin spreads to levator palpebrae superioris, temporary eyelid ptosis results.
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Muscular System sources. For education only; not medical advice.