Anti-wrinkle injections containing botulinum toxin Type A, a naturally occurring protein extract, have been approved for cosmetic use for over 20 years globally.
They are generally well tolerated in the minute levels administered for cosmetic use but can only be administered by a qualified cosmetic practitioner.
How do anti-wrinkle injections work?
The muscles of the face allow us to express a range of emotions such as happiness, sadness and anger. Over time, the repeated use of facial muscles cause lines and wrinkles to appear, particularly around the frown area. Over time, the lines may even get noticeably deeper.
A very small dose of anti-wrinkle injection is injected in the specific frown muscles causing lines and wrinkles. Once the muscles are relaxed, the overlying wrinkles in the frown may soften or reduce.
The treatment takes around 10 to 15 minutes and is minimally invasive and relatively pain free.
Frequently asked questions about anti-wrinkle injections
How quickly will I see results from anti-wrinkle injections?
You may notice the results in just 2-3 days. The peak effect is between 10-21 days after treatment. If you decide not to continue your anti-wrinkle injection treatment, your muscle activity will gradually return and your wrinkles will slowly reappear. Your wrinkles will not be worse than your pre-treatment state.
How long will the effects of an anti-wrinkle injection treatment last?
The effects of anti-wrinkle injections last approximately 4 months. Individual results may vary.
What results should I expect?
When the frown lines are relaxed after anti-wrinkle injection treatment, the skin around the area will look smooth and less wrinkled. The injection allows the untreated areas to move as normal. You will still be able to laugh, smile and frown, just with less wrinkling of the skin in the treated areas.
Can anti-wrinkle injections cause side effects?
As with any cosmetic medical treatment, occasional side effects can occur. These can include headaches, pain, bruising, swelling, itchiness, a feeling of pins and needles or redness at the injection site. Muscle weakness such as drooping eyelids or eye muscles may also occur.
