Anti-wrinkle, also known as muscle relaxant injections, dramatically reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines around the eyes (Crows feet), forehead (Brow Lines) and glabella ( Frown Lines) without the need to undergo surgery. As muscle relaxant injections are a non-surgical treatment, patients can resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure. In addition, these injections are much less costly than surgery. All of these factors have led to the increasing acceptance of anti-wrinkle injections over the years.

The use of muscle relaxant injections for cosmetic purposes has been used for over two decades and is considered safe and effective when performed by a trained clinician.

Anti-wrinkle injections consist of a neurotoxin that has been derived from bacteria. The injection attaches to the nerve endings in the targeted muscles reducing muscle contraction. As the muscle contraction is confined, the chances of wrinkles or lines forming are reduced, while reducing the formation of new wrinkles. Before the muscle relaxant injections became common in cosmetics, they were used to treat numerous medical problems including neurological disorders, and treating the sweat glands to reduce sweating.

Anti-wrinkle injections are an effective treatment for reducing the appearance of dynamic as well as static wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are described as being visible every time a muscle contracts with a certain facial expression – for example when you squint, smile or frown. These wrinkles can turn permanent (or static) over time. Static wrinkles, on the other hand, are wrinkles that are visible at all time, regardless of whether the muscles have contracted or not.

The exact time the treatment takes is determined by the client and their particular situation. However, most treatments end up taking no more than 10 to 30 minutes.

This is different for each client, but the effects usually last up to 3 or 4 months. The effects of the treatment will eventually wear off, requiring maintenance treatments. If you decide to not pursue further maintenance treatments, your muscles will go back to their initial, pre-treatment activity.

Most of our clients immediately return to their daily activities post-treatment. To achieve the best results, we also recommend the following;

• Avoid exercise for 4 hours after treatment
• Do not receive a facial, or massage the treated area for 24 hours
• Cold packs may be applied to the treated area if you experience any bruising or swelling

The use of anti-wrinkle injections for cosmetic use is safe when performed by a qualified clinician. Many people go through the treatment without experiencing any side effects at all. However, as with all cosmetic procedures, side effects are possible. The side effects, if any, are temporary and specific to the regions of injection such as minor swelling and redness.

Other possible side effects may include bruising, stinging, burning, slight headache, itching, or skin tightness.

At the time of consultation, Dr. Challinor will discuss the risk of side effects and answer any concerns before treatment.

The cost of the treatment will vary for each client and depends on their particular situation as well as the amount of the product used to treat the targeted areas. As there are many variables, a quote can only be provided during a consultation.