Anti-wrinkle Injections
What are Anti-wrinkle Injections?
Anti-wrinkle injections are a non-surgical cosmetic treatment designed to soften facial lines and restore a fresher, smoother appearance. They work by using a purified protein to relax specific facial muscles that cause wrinkles. When these muscles are temporarily relaxed, lines such as forehead creases, frown lines (known as 11’s), and crow’s feet become less visible. The treatment can also help create slimmer jawlines, gently lift brows, and reduce the appearance of a gummy smile.
This treatment does not change your natural facial expressions. Instead, it targets the underlying muscle activity that contributes to wrinkles, resulting in a softer and more balanced appearance.
Who is Suitable for Anti-wrinkle Injections?
Anti-wrinkle injections are generally suitable for adults who wish to:
- Soften facial expression lines: Such as lines around the eyes, forehead, and mouth.
- Prevent new wrinkles: By reducing repeated facial muscle movements.
- Restore facial balance: Particularly where muscle tension has caused uneven features.
A consultation with our qualified practitioner is essential. Anti-wrinkle injections are not recommended if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 18 years of age. People with certain neurological conditions or allergies to the injection ingredients may also be unsuitable.
Benefits of Anti-wrinkle Injections
Anti-wrinkle injections offer a range of cosmetic and preventative benefits:
- Soften expression lines: Reducing the depth of smile lines, crow’s feet, and forehead creases.
- Restore facial harmony: Helping to rebalance features and smooth uneven muscle activity.
- Prevent future wrinkles: Limiting the movement that causes deeper lines to form over time.
- Achieve a youthful appearance: Creating a naturally refreshed look without surgery.
- Quick and convenient: Most treatments take around 10 minutes and require no downtime.
With regular treatments, many patients find that less product is needed over time to maintain their results.
Types of Anti-wrinkle Injections
The treatment can be tailored to different areas of the face, including:
- Forehead and frown lines: Smoothing vertical 11’s and horizontal creases.
- Crow’s feet: Softening lines around the outer corners of the eyes.
- Brow lift: Providing a subtle lift to the eyebrows.
- Jawline slimming: Relaxing the masseter muscle for a more refined jaw shape.
- Chin and mouth lines: Reducing dimpling and marionette lines.
- Gummy smile correction: Minimising excessive gum display when smiling.
Specific product names and dosage amounts cannot be listed due to Australian therapeutic advertising guidelines. Your practitioner will recommend the most appropriate formulation and dosage.
Alternative Options to Anti-wrinkle Injection
Some people may consider other treatments depending on their needs:
- Dermal fillers: To add volume and smooth deeper folds.
- Skin resurfacing treatments: Such as laser or chemical peels, to improve skin texture.
- Topical anti-ageing treatments: Including retinoids and prescription creams for fine lines.
- Lifestyle measures: Such as sun protection, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking, to slow skin ageing.
What to Expect Before, During, and After an Anti-wrinkle Injection Treatment
Before treatment:
For best results, you may be advised to stop taking vitamin E for a week and avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines for two weeks. Please inform your practitioner if you are taking blood-thinning medication. On the day of treatment, avoid large amounts of alcohol and come with clean skin.
During treatment:
The procedure typically takes approximately 10 minutes. The skin is cleaned, and a fine needle is used to inject small amounts of product into the targeted muscles. An ice pack can be applied to reduce discomfort. Most people describe the sensation as a brief pinprick.
After treatment:
You can usually return to normal activities straight away. To help the product settle, gently move the treated muscles (frown, raise your eyebrows, squint) for about 30 minutes. Avoid rubbing the treated area, lying flat for four hours, engaging in strenuous exercise for 24 hours, or undergoing facial treatments on the same day.
Results, Duration, and Maintenance
When performed by an experienced medical professional, the treatment:
- Produces visible results quickly: Most people notice smoother skin within two to five days, with full results evident in about two weeks.
- Lasts several months: The effect typically remains for three to six months before gradually wearing off. With regular treatments, some patients find that the required dose decreases as facial muscles adapt.
- Helps prevent deeper wrinkles: By limiting the repeated muscle movements that cause lines, anti-wrinkle injections can help delay the formation of new creases.
- Allows for normal activities: There is no downtime, and you can return to work or social events immediately after the procedure.
The long-term outlook depends on your age, skin condition, and lifestyle habits such as sun exposure and smoking. Many people enjoy ongoing improvement and easier maintenance when they follow a regular treatment plan.
Anti-wrinkle Injection Risks and Side Effects
Anti-wrinkle injections are considered safe when administered by qualified practitioners; however, like any medical procedure, they carry some risks. Common and usually temporary effects include:
- Mild redness, swelling, or bruising: These are the most frequent side effects and generally resolve within a few days.
- Temporary headache or tightness: Some patients experience mild discomfort or a sense of heaviness around the treated area.
- Short-term eyelid droop or uneven eyebrow height: This may occur if the product spreads to nearby muscles. It usually improves within a few weeks as the effect naturally wears off.
- Minor injection-site irritation: Tenderness or small bumps can appear but typically settle quickly.
Rare but possible complications include dry eyes, double vision, or reduced blinking. These effects are uncommon and generally temporary. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare.
To reduce risks:
- Choose a clinic with medically trained practitioners.
- Disclose your full medical history and medications.
- Follow all before-and-after care instructions, such as avoiding rubbing the treated area or lying flat for several hours.
If you experience persistent swelling, unusual discomfort, or any signs of infection, contact your clinic or doctor promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Anti-wrinkle Injections
What are anti-wrinkle injections made from?
They are made from a purified protein that relaxes specific facial muscles. By softening muscle activity, the injections reduce the appearance of expression lines such as crow’s feet, forehead creases, and frown lines.
How do anti-wrinkle injections work?
The product temporarily blocks the signal between the nerve and the targeted muscle. When the muscle cannot contract fully, the overlying skin stays smoother. The treatment does not affect surrounding muscles when performed correctly, allowing natural facial expressions to be maintained.
Are anti-wrinkle injections safe?
Yes. They have been used safely for many years in both cosmetic and medical treatments. When performed by a trained medical professional and in the correct dose, they have a strong safety record. Following before-and-after care instructions further reduces risk.
Will I still look natural?
Yes. The goal is to soften lines and create a fresher appearance, not to freeze the face. An experienced injector places small amounts precisely so you can still express emotions naturally.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most people describe the sensation as a quick, pinprick-like or mild stinging sensation. The procedure is brief, typically lasting about 10 to 15 minutes. An ice pad may be applied to reduce discomfort. No anaesthetic is normally required.
How soon will I see results?
You may notice improvement in two to five days, with full results appearing in about two weeks. Avoid extra injections within that period to let the product settle properly.
How long do the results last?
Results usually last three to six months. The effect gradually wears off as nerve signals and muscle activity return. With regular treatments, the required dose may decrease over time.
What areas can be treated?
Common areas include:
- Forehead lines and frown lines (the “11’s”)
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
- Brow area for a subtle lift
- Jawline and chin to reduce dimpling or create a slimmer contour
- Corners of the mouth or upper lip to improve a gummy smile
Can anti-wrinkle injections prevent wrinkles?
Yes. By reducing repeated facial movements, they help prevent new lines from forming and stop existing lines from becoming deeper. Starting treatment early can help maintain a smoother appearance over time.
What should I avoid after treatment?
For the first few hours, avoid rubbing or massaging the treated areas and remain upright. Do not lie flat for at least four hours. Skip vigorous exercise and facial treatments for 24 hours. These precautions help the product stay exactly where it was placed.
Can I have anti-wrinkle injections if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Because there is limited research on safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding, treatment is not recommended during these times.
Can someone under 18 have anti-wrinkle injections?
No. Cosmetic injectable treatments are not offered to patients under the age of 18.
How many units will I need?
The number of units varies depending on the area treated, muscle strength, and your goals. Your injector will assess this during a consultation. With consistent treatments, the dosage may be reduced over time.
How much does it cost?
Pricing is usually calculated per unit. The total cost depends on the number of units required and individual facial anatomy.
Your clinician will provide a personalised quote after assessment.
How often will I need follow-up treatments?
Most people schedule treatments every three to four months to maintain a smooth, youthful look. Over time, some individuals find that less frequent sessions are sufficient to maintain the same effect.
Can I return to work after my appointment?
Yes. You can usually return to work or your normal daily activities. Only strenuous exercise, facials, and massage should be avoided for 24 hours.
Will delaying treatment make wrinkles worse?
No. If you delay or skip a treatment, the muscles simply regain their usual movement, and lines slowly return to their natural state. Wrinkles do not become worse because of a missed appointment.
Can I wear makeup after treatment?
It is best to avoid makeup for a few hours to reduce the risk of infection. You can gently apply mineral makeup later the same day if needed.