What are anti-wrinkle injections?

Anti-wrinkle injection treatments are injections of botulinum toxin A, a naturally occurring purified protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum, is a Prescription only Medication (POMs). Botulinum toxin is injected into targetted muscle groups to temporarily block nerve signals, resulting in weakening of the muscle action, and improvement in the appearance of lines of facial expression. They are licensed for the temporary improvement in moderate to severe upper facial lines - crow’s feet (outer corners of the eyes), glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows), horizontal forehead lines and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). They are also off-label used to treat: gummy smiles, bunny lines, lip lines, jawline, platysmal bands (neck), masseter muscle (jaw slimming and teeth grinding), brow lift and chin dimpling.

How can anti-wrinkle injections help me?

We recommend anti-wrinkle treatments for those who show signs of lines and wrinkles when making facial expressions. Our treatment can help soften their appearance, resulting in a rested result.

How safe are anti-wrinkle injection treatments

Treatments with botulinum toxin have an excellent safety profile. Worldwide, they are the most requested non-surgical cosmetic treatment. However, as with any medical procedure, there are certain risks and side-effects, which we will discuss with you during your consultation. It is thus important to only have your treatments performed by qualified medical professionals.

Are anti-wrinkle injections painful?

Botulinum toxin is injected using a fine needle. It is generally not painful, and most people will only experience minor discomfort. You may experience injectio site soreness after treatment, but this should subside soon after. Very rarely, some patients require a topical anaesthetic cream, or ice application to numb the area before treatment.

How do I prepare for my appoinment?

• Unless prescribed by your doctor, avoid taking anti-inflammatories (aspirin, neurofen, ibuprofen, naproxen) for a few days prior to your treatment, as this increases the risk of bruising

• If you are prone to bruising, take arnica orally a few days before your treatment to reduce the risk

• If you are unwell on the day of your treatment, please contact us

• If there are any changes to your medical history or medication, please inform us before recieving treatment

• Do not plan your treatment within 2 weeks of an important social event or holiday, as this may not allow enough time for side-effects to settle

What happens during an appointment?

Anti-wrinkle treatments are quick and easy to carry out. However, they can only be provided by a trained medical professional. We would have a consultation, going through your medical history form (which you would have completed prior to your appointment), assess your treatment area to determine if treatment is appropriate for you. We will go through the side effects specific to your treatment and costs involved, to enable you make an informed decision. Upon completion of consent, pre-treatment clinical photographs will be taken. Your skin will be cleaned and prepped for treatment. A series of injections into the targetted muscles will be administered.

How long do anti-wrinkle treatments take?

Depending on the number of treatment areas, your appointment should typically last for 30-45 minutes.

How long do the results last?

Anti-wrinkle treatments take around 2 weeks for results to have their full effect. Their effects can last anywhere from 3-6 months, though results do vary. You can book a repeat treatment as you’ll start to see movement again in the treated areas.

Are there any risks related to wrinkle relaxers?

As with any injectables, swelling and bruising can occur, which will subside after a few days, as well as injection site redness, itching and irritation. You may develop a mild headache after treatment, which may last several days. Rare complications include: eyelid or brow drooping or heaviness, asymmetry, abnormal appearance of the brows, nausea and/or hot flushes. There have been reports of some serious risks associated with anti-wrinkle treatments, such as: blepharitis, blurred vision and breathing difficulties, but these are extremely rare.

What is the recovery time?

Minimal downtime is associated with anti-wrinkle injection treatments, and most patients are able to return to work after an appointment.

Will my results look unnatural?

At DermZen Clinic, we aim to create a natural-looking, rejuvenated appearance for our patients, and to enhance your unique beauty. We favour a ‘less is more’ approach, thus your treatment plan and results can be tailored to suit your needs.

How do I care for my skin afterwards?

• Remain upright for 4 hours after treatment

• Repeatedly tense the treated muscle groups (for masseter, you may chew gum) for 4 hours after treatment

• Avoid touching, rubbing or placing physical pressure on the treated area

• Avoid make up for 12 hours

• Avoid strenous exercise for 24 hours

• Avoid hot baths, jacuzzis and saunas for 24 hours

• Avoid consuming alcohol for 24 hours

• Avoid blood thinning medications for 24 hours

• Protect your skin from the sun

• Avoid smoking, as this could prevent you healing properly

• Contact us as soon as possible, if you experience any unexpected side effect after treatment