As we age, our bodies gradually stop producing collagen and elastin, two components that help give the face a youthful appearance; with time fine lines and wrinkles appear on the skin. To reduce the appearance of these lines and wrinkles, and bring back that fresh, firm look, people opt for anti-wrinkle injections. 

However, not every anti-wrinkle injection treatment  is the same, therefore it is important to choose the right treatment to get the best results. By choosing the right injectable treatment, you can also reduce the risk of complications and unwanted side effects. So, before pursuing any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to know what wrinkle fillers do, the types, and the potential benefits and side effects.

What Do Wrinkle Treatments Do?

Firstly, it’s worth knowing that several factors can cause skin wrinkles such as smoking, sun exposure, excessive facial movements, and it can even be hereditary. Wrinkles fall into two categories: deep furrows and fine surface lines. There are things that can help you  reduce wrinkles or prevent them occurring in the first place.

Once wrinkles have formed, then wrinkle treatment with injectables offers the best result and it is fast and effortless. Wrinkle fillers are known to plump the skin to smooth any lines and add volume, whereas botox injections prevent the muscles in your face from moving, thus preventing wrinkle formation. 

Wrinkle treatments can help by:

• Plumping and redefining lips
• Reconstructing, enhancing and softening facial creases and wrinkles
• Decreasing the appearance of scars
• Reducing scars from acne, burns and cuts
• Relaxing crow’s feet, smile and frown lines, etc.

Common Types of Anti-Aging Injections

There are many wrinkle treatments available; still, the two most common FDA-approved injectables are dermal fillers and botox.

Dermal fillers are medically developed gel often made from hyaluronic acid and it is injected  under the skin with a fine needle to smooth skin and wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the skin and commonly used in many anti-ageing skincare products. Since it helps skin retain moisture, hyaluronic acid rejuvenates the skin and can make your face look more plump and hydrated, thus softening the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Dermal fillers’ results can be seen almost immediately after treatment and last between 6 to 18 months.

Botox (Botulinum toxin)  injections are a safe and effective method of wrinkle treatment. These anti-wrinkle injections are a non-surgical procedure that can treat wrinkles on the forehead, fine lines under the eyes, smile lines, and crow’s feet. The Botox injection into the muscles of the face causes them to relax, reducing movement to smooth out lines and wrinkles. It typically takes three days to begin to see the results of anti-wrinkle injections, with the full effect of treatment visible after about ten days. Results can last between three to six months; however, individual response to treatment may vary.  

There are many other anti wrinkle treatment options, e.g creams and gels, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, or cosmetic surgeries such as facelifts.

The Possible Side Effects of Wrinkle Fillers

As with any procedure, injecting facial filler for wrinkles has some associated risks. The most common side effects that may occur after the injection of fillers are:

• bruising 
• swelling 
• itching 
• redness 
• lumps
• and bumps

According to the FDA, these effects reduce in two weeks. However, there are other risks, such as discoloration and lumps, if injections are done incorrectly. 

Although rare, serious risks can be: 

• scarring 
• blurred vision
• partial vision loss, and 
• blindness. 

These may occur if the dermal filler is accidentally injected into a blood vessel. In some cases of an allergic reaction, it can lead to a severe reaction that requires emergency medical help. That is why it is critical to choose a trustworthy medical clinic when considering this procedure.

Which Anti-Wrinkle Treatment is the Right One for You?

There are procedures such as micro-needling that use derma rollers to improve the surface of the skin, however, in order to see improvements they must be used regularly over weeks to months.

Dermal fillers are popular due to the fact that patients see differences in their appearances almost immediately. Generally, people notice the desired changes from other non-surgical procedures, like botox, after a few days. 

While a one-off procedure can give the desired results, anyone interested in changing their overall skin health and appearance needs to consider an ongoing commitment to regular maintenance treatments. Botox treatments are usually repeated every three to four months for longer-term sustained benefits, while dermal fillers are repeated every six to twelve months. 

In the end, safety should be your top priority when considering any medical procedure. Although doctors need to respect their patients’ confidentiality, most will be able to show you before and after images of other patients, client testimonials, or even provide reviews of patients who have had the same treatment and their overall experience.

A good doctor will advise on the ideal treatment plan to help you achieve your desired look by booking a consultation. Aim to communicate with your doctor about realistic results and your expectations. Our practitioner will determine what treatment is right for you based on your medical history, a full medical evaluation, and a skin assessment.

About the Author

Dr Suhail Alam

Dr Alam is devoted to providing high quality, holistic, patient centred care designed to make patients look and feel their best. He has a specialist interest in Hair Restoration Surgery and Regenerative Medicine.

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