Top 7 Questions About Anti-Wrinkle Injections Answered

Wrinkles and fine lines are two of the most common anti-aging concerns of both men and women. As these folds and creases can make the face appear sad, tired, and angry, it is no wonder why anti-wrinkle injections (like Botox) are the most common cosmetic procedure performed worldwide. 

If you too are considering getting anti-wrinkle injections, you may surely have questions about the treatment. Continue reading to know the answers to the most common questions about botulinum toxin. 

1. Will the injections make me look fake or frozen? 

Looking fake or plastic is the most common concern for many first-timers. This can happen with overtreating or overdosage, as well as wrong injection techniques. This only makes it important to see a skilled and trained injector/aesthetic doctor. It is also imperative to have the treatment in a medical facility, instead of a private setting

At Cutis Medical Laser Clinics, our very own Dr. Sylvia Ramirez is a US Board Certified physician and an experienced Botox and filler injector for many years. Dr. Sylvia also prefers a natural look for her patients, so you wouldn’t have to worry about looking plastic or unnatural. 

2. Does the procedure hurt?

As botulinum toxin injections involve the use of needles, many patients skip or think twice about getting the treatment. It is common to have fears, especially if it is your first time. You, however, should know that the injections are not painful. Many describe the sensation similar to tiny ant bites, but this varies from patient to patient. Numbing cream is also applied to the area to improve patient comfort. 

It is also a good idea to share or talk about your fears . This will allow the injector to take special precautions and provide tips to make you feel comfortable. Check our previous post for the 5 things that can help ease your fear of needles. 

3. What are the common areas for anti-wrinkle injections?

Angry 11s or the vertical lines between the eyebrows are a common treatment area, especially for men. These wrinkles become etched into the skin as a result of frowning or deeply focusing while reading or listening. Horizontal forehead wrinkles are also common, especially with prominent and excessive forehead lines.

Botulinum toxin injections can also be used to smooth crow’s feet (wrinkles at the corner of the eyes), bunny lines or nose wrinkles, and smile or laugh lines. They also have a lot of other uses like lifting droopy eyelids and jawline slimming. Just do take note that many of these uses are “off-label”, so it is best to talk to your doctor about them. 

4. How often do I need the treatment?

This varies from patient to patient. The effects and longevity of results can depend on a number of factors like your age, dosage, metabolism, and frequency of treatments. In general, the effects can last for a few months, so it is advisable to get touch-up treatments or new injections after 3 to 4 months. 

The “less is more” approach is also ideal when getting anti-wrinkle injections, as more units can translate to a higher risk of looking frozen. A consultation with an injector or aesthetic doctor will let you know more than the things you can expect when looking to smooth or relax your facial wrinkles. 

5. Are anti-wrinkle injections safe? 

Botox, the most common brand of botulinum toxin injection, is US FDA approved for treating frown lines (angry 11s), wrinkles around the eyes, and forehead lines. The same is also true for Dysport, another brand of botulinum toxin. Both are considered safe and effective for temporarily treating moderate to severe facial wrinkles. 

Side effects like redness, swelling, and bruising may occur at the injection site. These, however, are temporary and will resolve within a couple of days. Both men and women can get anti-wrinkle injections, except for patients with milk allergy (cow’s milk protein), history of botulinum toxin sensitivity, and those who are pregnant and breastfeeding.

6. How soon will I see the results?

You can see the initial results of Botox within a few days (3 to 4 days) after the injection. For Dysport, the initial improvements may begin to appear 2 to 3 days after the treatment. Final and full effects for both brands, however, may take about two weeks to show through. It is important to be patient.

You can expect the results of Botox to last between 3 and 6 months and for Dysport for 4 to 5 months. Do take note, however, that this will still vary from patient to patient. While Botox seems to last long, others who have developed an immune response to Botox® injectables may consider alternatives like Dysport or Xeomin. 

7. Are Botox and fillers the same?

No, they are not. Botulinum toxin is used for treating facial wrinkles using a neurotoxin protein that temporarily paralyzes the muscles. Dermal fillers, on the hands, are injectable gels that improve the skin’s supply of a certain ingredient. Fillers contain hyaluronic acid or calcium-based microspheres to restore volume and soften lines.

Also, it can take about two weeks to see the full effects of botulinum toxin. For dermal fillers, it can be seen immediately. Also, dermal fillers last longer, between 9 and 18 months, but this can still depend on the type of fillers used. 

Are you looking to smooth your facial lines and wrinkles for a younger-looking appearance? Contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore today and schedule a consultation with our aesthetic doctor to learn more about anti-wrinkle injections and other anti-aging treatments.