How do anti-wrinkle injections actually work?

Facial aesthetic treatments have grown in popularity over the years, with more and more people keen to either halt the signs of ageing or simply even out the skin for a more refreshed look.

The rise in ‘backstreet Botox’ clinics has not done the industry any favours either – offering cut price treatments, but without the benefit of properly trained professionals administering the product. Unfortunately, price can be a deciding factor for some – rather than valuing the skill and experience of the clinician above all else.

And with Botox treatment readily available, people often want it without actually understanding how it works, the dos and don’ts and some of the pitfalls to watch out for. So, let’s take a closer look…

How does it work?

Anti-wrinkle injections – commonly referred to as Botox, which is actually a brand of Botulinum toxin injections – help to relax facial muscles. In doing this, they make lines and wrinkles – such as crow’s feet and frown lines – less visible. Everyone is different in how their body processes the product, but results typically last between three and six months, and it can take up to 10 days for the full effects to be seen.

So what are the dos and don’ts?

It’s quite easy for you to base your decision purely on price – facial aesthetic treatment can be expensive due to product costs and the skill of the practitioner, so it’s little wonder that people get lured in by cut-price treatment. Tread carefully and avoid shopping on price alone. Botox treatment should only be administered by a trained medical professional – that includes dentists, doctors and trained nurses. Professionals such as these will have also undertaken training on how to administer the product safely and effectively. Ask for recommendations, find a practitioner with a good reputation and don’t be afraid to ask to see some before and after pictures of their previous treatments before you let them loose on your face.

Anything else I need to know?

It’s important to remember that, while anti-wrinkle injections can be a great solution to help minimise lines and wrinkles, they won’t perform miracles. Your practitioner should be honest about the results he/she believes you can achieve, which will help you make an informed decision about whether the treatment is right for you. For example, for extremely deep lines and indentations, Botox injections may not be the right treatment option – dermal fillers may in fact be more appropriate. This is where having a trusted, experienced professional to advise really pays off.

And finally, did you know that Botox injections can be used to treat excessive sweating under the arms – known as hyperhidrosis? By blocking the nerves that stimulate sweat production, it can help minimise or completely prevent the amount of sweat produced, avoiding those embarrassing sweat marks.

Want to know more? Head over to Dr Stephen Dodd’s dedicated facial aesthetic website ‘Refresh’ to find out more about Botox and the other facial aesthetic treatments he offers. Call 01704 360322 to book an appointment for Botox, lip fillers or dermal fillers.