How does the treatment work?

The injections block the release of a neurotransmitter (a chemical messenger) known as acetylcholine from nerve cells. Acetylcholine normally transmits nerve impulses to muscle cells, causing them to contract. Without acetylcholine, the affected nerve is unable to send a signal to the muscle it supplies, resulting in a weakened or paralysed muscle. The effect of the injections is restricted to the area being treated, and because the nerve fibres usually regenerate after a couple of months, the effect is only temporary.

How are injections used to treat wrinkles?

Injections can be used to weaken or paralyse some of the facial muscles that pull on your skin and cause wrinkles, allowing the skin to flatten out. About 2 to 7 days after the injections, the lines and wrinkles that are normally caused by certain facial expressions start to disappear. Because anti wrinkle therapy targets specific, individual muscles, the ability to form most facial expressions should not be affected.

How long does the effect last?

The improvement in the appearance of your wrinkles usually lasts for 3 to 6 months, and repeated injections are required to maintain the effect. With continued use, the effects may start to last longer.

A small number of people develop neutralising antibodies to the injections after repeated therapy, which results in the treatment no longer being effective.

Are the injections safe?

Anti wrinkle injections are extremely safe when administered by a medical professional who is trained in its use. As with all treatments, there are some side effects associated with its use, but most of these are mild and temporary. Pain, tenderness and bruising may be associated with the injection, and some people have reported a slight headache after treatment. Nausea and a flu-like syndrome are also rarely reported.

There is only a small risk of significant side effects from anti wrinkle injection treatment, such as a drooping eyelid (which usually only lasts a few days, but can last longer).

Anti wrinkle injections should not be used in women who are pregnant or breast feeding.

It’s important to remember that that all medical procedures carry risks as well as benefits, and you need to discuss these with your doctor.