What are anti-wrinkle injections

Anti-wrinkle injections are performed by injecting medication into certain facial muscles to block nerve signals that make them contract and relax. It temporarily relaxes these muscles for a period of time, causing deep and fine lines and wrinkles to soften.

Most commonly it is used around the eyes, corners of the mouth, forehead and above the bridge of the nose. Anti-wrinkle treatments only take a few minutes, with the whole process able to be over and done within your lunch break. Relatively painless, the majority of people require no local anaesthetic or sedative to undergo treatment. A topical anaesthetic is however applied to make the procedure even more comfortable.

What are the risks?

As with any injection, minor temporary bruising is the most common side effect of Neurotoxin/such treatments, although many experience no side effects at all.

As these injections act on muscle movement, certain related side effects can occur: mild headaches are uncommon but easily treated, can last one to two days after treatment. Rarely and for only a short period, eyelids can temporarily droop. Drooping eyelids are usually caused by the client rubbing the injected area or lying down soon after treatment. This is however easily counteracted, should it occur.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not have injections and those with an allergy to eggs should inform their doctor or skin specialist before undergoing treatment.

What results can I expect?

Used to soften fine lines and wrinkles, you usually begin to see results within three to 10 days after treatment. Results tend to last three to four months, but can last four to six months, depending on how many units were injected and the experience of the specialist performing the treatment. Over time, it is believed that regular anti-wrinkle treatments can soften lines and wrinkles longer term due to the fact that these muscles are continually being relaxed.