When it comes to softening facial lines and restoring a refreshed look, anti-wrinkle injectables are one of the most researched and widely used medical aesthetic treatments in the world. When looking for anti-wrinkle injectables and botox in Colchester you will find that at Bespoke Medical Aesthetics in Colchester, all treatments are delivered by a qualified doctor with advanced training, ensuring safe and personalised care.
But what exactly are anti-wrinkle injectables, how do they work, and what should you know before booking a consultation? Let’s explore.
What Are Anti-Wrinkle Injections?
Botulinum toxin type A is a purified protein that works by temporarily relaxing targeted facial muscles. Many wrinkles form because of repeated expressions over time (for example, frowning, smiling, squinting). By reducing the activity of these muscles, Botulinum toxin softens the appearance of these lines.
It does not fill or stretch the skin — rather, it targets the root cause of expression lines. Results typically appear within 3–7 days, with full effect at 2 weeks.
Common Areas for Treatment
In the UK, muscle relaxing injections are used for cosmetically for the following areas:
- Frown lines (glabellar lines) – the “11” lines between the eyebrows
- Crow’s feet (lateral canthal lines) – lines around the outer corners of the eyes
- Forehead lines (frontalis lines) – horizontal lines across the forehead
- Platysma bands – vertical neck bands that become more visible with age
In experienced hands, muscle relaxing injections can also be used for other concerns, including:
- Bunny lines (lines across the nose when smiling)
- Gummy smile (to reduce excessive gum show when smiling)
- Chin dimpling (relaxing the mentalis muscle)
- Jawline slimming or teeth grinding (masseter muscle)
- Downturned corners of the mouth (DAO muscle)
- Lip flip (a subtle way to enhance the upper lip)
- Lower face lifting (using platysma relaxation — sometimes called a “half Nefertiti lift”)
⚠️ Important: These additional areas should only ever be performed by medical professionals with advanced training in anatomy and aesthetics.
How Long Do Results Last?
On average, depending on the treatment and area injected, results last 3–4 months. Several factors influence duration, including:
- Metabolism – people who metabolise quickly may notice shorter results
- Genetics – some individuals naturally break down botulinum toxin faster
- Dose and area treated – smaller doses may wear off more quickly
- Muscle strength – stronger muscles (e.g. masseter) may need higher doses and repeat treatments
- Lifestyle factors – high-intensity exercise, smoking, or chronic stress may reduce longevity
Regular, consistent treatments can help “train” muscles to stay more relaxed over time.
Contraindications and Safety Considerations for Treatment
While muscle relaxing injections/ anti-wrinkle injectables are generally safe when administered by a trained medical professional, certain individuals should take extra precautions.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Not recommended.
- Neuromuscular disorders: Conditions such as myasthenia gravis or Eaton-Lambert syndrome may increase risk.
- Medications: Some antibiotics (aminoglycosides) and blood-thinning medications can affect safety or the duration of effect.
- Allergies: Known allergy to botulinum toxin or any ingredient in the formulation.
Always discuss your medical history with your practitioner before starting any injectable treatment. A personalised consultation ensures safety and optimises results.
Are Anti-Wrinkle Injectables Safe?
Botulinum toxin type A has been used for over 30 years in both medical and cosmetic practice. When performed by a qualified medical professional, it is considered safe and effective.
Like all treatments, side effects can occur — these are usually mild and temporary, such as redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Serious complications are very rare but can happen if the treatment is not performed correctly.
For NHS guidance on Botox safety, see the official NHS page on anti-wrinkle injections.
Muscle Relaxing/ Anti-wrinkle Injectables and Skin Ageing: What It Can and Can’t Do
Muscle relaxing injectables are highly effective for expression lines (caused by movement). However, it does not:
- Replace lost collagen or elastin
- Restore volume loss in the cheeks or lips
- Improve skin texture on its own
For a more comprehensive approach, anti-wrinkle injectables are often combined with:
- Skin boosters (e.g. Profhilo, polynucleotides, Sunekos – coming soon)
- Dermal fillers (e.g. Juvéderm, HArmonyCa)
- Medical-grade skincare (SPF, retinoids, vitamin C)
👉 If you’d like to learn more about skin health, read our blog on morning skincare routines in your 30s and 40s.
Conclusion
Anti-wrinkle injections remain one of the most effective and widely researched treatments for softening dynamic wrinkles and refreshing facial appearance. By choosing a qualified medical professional, you can ensure the treatment is carried out safely and tailored to your individual needs.
FAQS
Q1: Do anti-wrinkle injections hurt?
Most people find the injections cause only mild discomfort, often described as a quick scratch.
Q2: How soon will I see results?
Initial effects appear in 3–7 days, with maximum effect at 2 weeks.
Q3: Will I look “frozen”?
When performed correctly, results should give a refreshed, natural result — not a frozen appearance.
Q4: Can I have Anti-wrinkle injectables if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
No — treatment is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Q5: Can I combine this with other treatments?
Yes — many people combine anti-wrinkle injections with skin boosters, dermal fillers, or medical-grade skincare for a holistic approach to skin rejuvenation.
Ready to start your skin health journey?
Book your consultation today and discover how anti-wrinkle injectables and other advanced treatments can support your unique needs.
References
- Carruthers, J.D.A. and Carruthers, J.A., 2009. Botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of glabellar frown lines in adults. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 123(6), pp.1751-1760.
- National Health Service (NHS), 2023. Anti-wrinkle injections (Botox). Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-treatments/anti-wrinkle-injections/ [Accessed 3 September 2025].
- Satriyasa, B.K., 2019. Botulinum toxin (Botox) A for reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles: a literature review of clinical use and pharmacological aspect. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 12, pp.223-228.
- Carruthers, A., Carruthers, J. and Said, S., 2005. Dose-ranging study of botulinum toxin type A in the treatment of glabellar rhytids in females. Dermatologic Surgery, 31(4), pp.414-422.
- Rzany, B., Ascher, B., Fratila, A., Monheit, G., Talarico, S., Sterry, W. and Sommer, B., 2006. Efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin type A in the treatment of lateral crow’s feet: a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 54(6), pp.834-840.
- Alam, M., et al., 2008. Botulinum toxin in clinical practice. BMJ, 336(7655), pp. 1469–1472.