Last Updated April 2022

What are anti wrinkle injections?

Anti wrinkle injections are made of Clostridium botulinum, a toxin that temporarily reduces movement in the local muscles. Anti wrinkle injections can reduce the appearance of expression lines, smile lines, bunny lines and facial wrinkles. Aside from treating wrinkles, these cosmetic injectables can also be beneficial for other skin treatments like:

  • Glabellar frown lines (expression lines)
  • Upper lip wrinkles (vertical lines above the lips)
  • Marionette lines
  • Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
  • Migraines
  • Bruxism
  • Platysma bands
  • Crow’s feet

How do anti wrinkle injections work?

After the injection has entered the muscles, the botulinum toxin temporarily stops muscle activity. This causes wrinkles to smooth and spasms to stop. Anti wrinkle injections also release pain and inflammatory mediators, and can provide relief from migraines.

Cosmetic injectables for wrinkles are generally a safe procedure, however, like all treatments they carry potential side effects. Some adverse effects post-treatment include:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising 
  • Discomfort
  • Headaches
  • Muscle weakness

Any pain and discomfort at the injection site can be reduced by using vibration and icing the injection site prior to injection.

The effects of botulinum toxin injections can last from 3 to 4 months. Some patients require more regular “top ups” through the year, to produce their desired results.

jawline before and after anti wrinkle injections

The history of anti wrinkle injections

Clostridium botulinum was discovered by European scientist Emile Pierre van Ermengem after a botulism outbreak. Scientists began studying the toxin, and in the 1970s, they began using it to treat strabismus (also known as crossed eyes). This trial was performed on monkeys, which led the researchers to discover that the toxin reduced wrinkles in the glabella (the area between the eyebrows).

From 2000, the US Food and Drug Association (FDA) approved the toxin as a treatment for cervical dystonia, a neck condition which causes the neck muscles to involuntarily contract. Following this, the FDA began to approve botulinum to treat other conditions. 

Here is a brief timeline of the FDA approvals:

  • 1989 – Strabismus and Blepharospasm
  • 2000 – Cervical Dystonia
  • 2002 – Glabellar Lines
  • 2004 – Hyperhidrosis
  • 2010 – Migraines and Lip Twitching
  • 2011 – Incontinence
  • 2013 – Crow’s Feet

What can anti wrinkle injections treat?

Anti wrinkle injectables can treat a number of issues, both cosmetically and medically. 

Cosmetically

Reduce wrinkles

Anti wrinkle injections can target static and dynamic wrinkles. Static wrinkles are wrinkles that are visible when your muscles are at rest. Often these are caused or exaggerated by repeated movement in that area. Dynamic wrinkles are caused by facial movements like squinting, frowning or smiling. Anti wrinkle injections can reduce dynamic wrinkles by relaxing the facial muscles that cause the wrinkles to form upon movement. Softening of static lines is possible with regular anti wrinkle treatment. Often, static lines are best treated with a combination of dermal fillers and anti wrinkle injections.

Common treatment areas include:

Enhance lip 

A common misbelief is that anti wrinkle injections can volumise the lips. Lip filler is used to augment lips and provide volume. Anti wrinkle treatments do not provide volume, instead they can help improve other aspects of the lip area without using surgical procedures. These can be things like:

  • Gummy smile
  • Upper lip wrinkles and lines
  • Lip flip – relaxing the muscles above the upper lip and cause it to curl outwards. Giving the impression of a larger, more defined upper lip, without adding volume.

Lift face

Strategically injecting anti wrinkle treatments to target specific areas of the face, can mimic a very subtle face lift. Common areas to inject include the lower face, nose and jawline. In combination with dermal fillers, a non-surgical face lift can be achieved.

Jawline slimming

To achieve a slim jawline non-surgically, anti wrinkle treatments can be injected into the masseter muscles. These jaw muscles are responsible for the bulk which gives the lower face a wide appearance. With anti wrinkle treatments, the squareness of the jaw can be reduced.

 

Medically

Blepharospasm

Blepharospasm, also known as eye twitching, can be treated with anti wrinkle injectables. The injections help block signals from the nerves, which tells the eye muscles to contract, therefore reducing muscle spasms. We do not treat this concern at Victorian Cosmetic Institute.

Strabismus

Strabismus, also known as cross eyed or lazy eyes, can be treated by injecting a diluted form of the toxin. The injection reaches specific muscles that move the eyes and causes temporarily weakening of the muscles. We do not treat this concern at Victorian Cosmetic Institute.

Spasticity

Spasticity is sometimes referred to as the stiffness or tightness of the muscles. Injecting the toxin into the area can help provide relief for spasticity-related issues. We do not treat this concern at Victorian Cosmetic Institute.

Dystonia

Dystonia refers to involuntary muscle contractions that cause twisting or repetitive muscle movement. It can affect one or more parts of the body. Anti wrinkle injections help prevent the nerves from releasing acetylcholine, which stops the nerves from sending messages to the muscles to contract or spasm. For cervical dystonia, the injections stop the muscle spasms or contractions in the neck. We do not treat this concern at Victorian Cosmetic Institute.

Bladder issues

An overactive bladder can cause discomfort as there is an uncontrollable urge to urinate. By injecting botulinum toxin into the bladder, it can help treat an overactive bladder or incontinence. This causes the muscles to relax, allowing you more time to get to the bathroom. We do not treat this concern at Victorian Cosmetic Institute.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is also referred to as excessive sweating. The anti wrinkle injections block the sweating nerve signals, which stops the sweat glands from overproducing sweat.

Migraines

Anti wrinkle treatment can help treat chronic migraines by injecting around the nerve endings where pain transmission occurs. This can cause complete elimination of symptoms or partially reduce the number of migraines after the treatment.

Hay Fever

Anti wrinkle cosmetic treatments can help provide relief against hay fever symptoms. Often, the product used for anti wrinkle treatments is applied topically to the nasal passage to help prevent the triggering of the symptoms. Hay fever treatment offers an alternative to taking daily tablets, with long-term relief and with no reported side effects.

Bruxism

Bruxism is also referred to as teeth clenching or teeth grinding. Anti wrinkle injectables can be injected into the masseter muscles to reduce the movement in the jaw area. This results in reduced clenching and grinding of the teeth, and can also relieve tension or aches in the head.

How long does anti wrinkle injections last?

There are a number of factors that can influence how long anti wrinkle injections last. This includes the area being treated, the patients metabolism, the dosage provided, stress levels and illness. 

Generally, anti wrinkle injections last from 3 to 4 months. 

It is recommended to have repeat treatment every 3 to 4 months to ensure optimum results. Frequent and regular anti wrinkle treatment provides for better overall longevity and treatment outcomes.

How to choose the right injectables clinic

For those considering anti wrinkle injections, it is best to choose the right injectables clinic.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a cosmetic clinic.

Things to consider when choosing a cosmetic clinic

Do your research

The first and foremost thing to consider, regardless of treatment, is the qualifications and reputation of a clinic. You will want to find out whether the clinic has a team of licensed and experienced practitioners, like Registered Nurses and Doctors. You may also want to seek online reviews or reviews from family or friends that have visited cosmetic clinics.

Avoid choosing a clinic based on price

While opting for surgical and non-surgical treatments can be costly for some patients, it is best to avoid selecting a clinic based on pricing alone. Some clinics may offer a more premium pricing due to the level of expertise and experience of the staff, training, facilities, intensive consultations or specialised after-care services.

Choosing a clinic due to their low cost treatments can be risky as the treatments could be administered by an unskilled provider. This can result in dissatisfaction and injury.

Opt for transparency 

Transparency is a key factor in choosing the right cosmetic clinic. Professionals that lack transparency may also lack the appropriate duty of care, safety and consideration for their patients. Patients should also avoid choosing a provider that is not upfront about their level of experience with cosmetic injectable treatments.

Before and after photos

Reviewing before and after images can provide a visual indicator of how skilled and experienced a clinic or practitioner is. An unnatural or uneven appearance after getting injectable treatments can indicate a practitioner’s lack of experience when treatments.

Questions to ask your injector

Now that you have chosen your injectables clinic, there are some questions you can ask during your consultation. This can help you make an educated decision on whether the treatment is appropriate for you or not.

Who is providing my procedure?

Ensure the provider is registered and qualified to perform the treatment. For more information, check out our handy guide on how to find the right injector for your needs.

How much experience do you have with this procedure?

You want an injector with extensive training and experience. Injecting in the wrong areas can have a negative outcome, that can result in blindness or death.

What product are you using? Is it TGA approved?

Legislation and regulations prevent the advertising of therapeutic goods, including the brand names of injectables. This information is only available if you ask your practitioner. Regardless of treatment, the product should be TGA approved.

What are the risks and side effects of this treatment? What kind of aftercare will be provided?

All treatments come with potential risk and side effects. It is important that you understand these before undergoing the procedure. Your practitioner should explain this information to you. It is also crucial for you to be supported post-treatment, in the event you experience side effects, including building immunity against the injections.

Anti wrinkle injections treatment plan

A treatment plan is created in consultation with your practitioner. As everyone has different needs, your treatment plan will be unique to you and your concerns. The treatment plan will allow the practitioner to understand the patient’s goal and set realistic expectations for the patient. 

Depending on your desired outcome, you may need to revisit the clinic every 3 to 4 months for top ups or different treatments. After you have discussed your goals, your practitioner will look into your medical history and examine your concerns in more depth. This will help them determine whether anti wrinkle injections are an appropriate method to address your concerns, whether other treatments are required and what the best course of action is.

How to create your treatment plan

To create a treatment plan, your practitioner may look at:

  • Your goals 
  • Whether your goals can be achieved through anti wrinkle injections
  • If other cosmetic injectable or other treatments are required for best results
  • Your budget
  • Your lifestyle factors

When should you start getting anti-wrinkle injections?

There is no specific age to start getting anti wrinkle injectables. 

It will depend on lifestyle factors and your goals. 

20s

For people in their 20s, it is likely that they will have developed some wrinkles in this age group. It is quite common to experience wrinkles caused by repetitive movement such as smiling, frowning or squinting. As a result, anti wrinkle injections may be used to prevent future wrinkles from occurring. 

Anti wrinkle injections may be suitable for people in their 20s who:

  • Regularly use a sun bed
  • Sunbathe without broad spectrum protection
  • Smoke regularly
  • Are concerned about future wrinkle formation

30s

For people in their 30s, they might notice that their first few lines and wrinkles have developed. On the other hand, more deep and permanent wrinkles do not develop until the late 30s. As a result, anti wrinkle injections can be used to stop muscles from creating wrinkles habitually. 

Anti wrinkle injections may be suitable for people in their 30s who:

  • Have developed fine lines and wrinkles
  • Wish to prevent existing lines from becoming more pronounced
  • Enjoy sunbathing 
  • Smoke regularly
  • Consume alcohol regularly
  • Have a stressful lifestyle 

40s

For people in their 40s, it is likely that they have developed more defined wrinkles. This is due to the natural ageing process, where our skin cells do not regenerate as fast as they used to. This also results in elastin and collagen breaking down faster. As a result, anti wrinkle injections, in combination with anti ageing skin care, can help restore a youthful appearance.

Anti wrinkle injections may be suitable for people in their 40s who:

  • Have lines and wrinkles they wish to soften
  • Notice a softening jawline
  • Developed a dimpled chin
  • Consume alcohol regularly
  • Have a stressful lifestyle
  • Experience dehydrated skin

50s

For people in their 50s, it is likely that they have developed soft, deep-set wrinkles. The texture of the skin may have changed significantly as well. Age spots are likely to have formed due to sun damage and skin is more saggy due to decreased collagen and elastin. At this stage, menopause has a large impact on the skin, causing dryness and wrinkles. As a result, anti wrinkle injections can repair the effects of the ageing process.

Anti wrinkle injections may be suitable for people in their 50s who:

  • Want to prevent worsening of existing lines and wrinkles
  • Are about to experience, are experiencing or have experienced menopause
  • Spent excessive amounts of time in the sun without appropriate attention
  • Regularly consume alcohol or smoke

60s

For people in their 60s, it is likely that wrinkles have continued to develop due to collagen breakdown. The skin may appear more saggy or lacking in volume. As a result, anti wrinkle injections can help refresh and rejuvenate the skin’s appearance.

Anti wrinkle injections may be suitable for people in their 60s who:

  • Are excessively exposed to the sun without protection
  • Want to soften fine lines and minimise wrinkles
  • Want to rejuvenate the skin while maintaining a natural looking result

How much do anti wrinkle injections cost?

The cost of anti wrinkle injections will differ for each individual. 

The pricing will depend on:

  • The goals
  • The treatment plan
  • The number of injections or units used
  • The injection site

For more information on the cost of anti wrinkle injections see here.

Where to get the best anti wrinkle injections in Melbourne?

When choosing a cosmetic practitioner for your anti wrinkle injections, remember to review their experience and reputation. A practitioner’s aesthetic judgement and assessment of your face are critical to achieving natural and pleasing outcomes. The skill of the injector may also determine if you bruise or if you feel pain during the injections. 

The pricing of a treatment should not be the most important factor as paying less for a treatment may not give you the best aesthetic outcome. 

At Victorian Cosmetic Institute, we pride ourselves on achieving the best aesthetic outcomes for our patients and to do this, we help you to choose the right product, technique, and practitioners for your needs.

Contact our friendly team today on 1300 863 824 for a consultation, alternatively you can book online and we will be in touch with you.