Anti-wrinkle treatments

Anti-Wrinkle Treatments FAQs

What are anti-wrinkle injections and how do they work?

Anti-wrinkle injections use a purified protein that temporarily relaxes the facial muscles responsible for expression lines. When these muscles are subtly softened, the overlying skin smooths out, reducing the appearance of lines on the forehead, between the brows, and around the eyes. The effect is temporary and fully reversible as the protein naturally breaks down over time.

What areas can be treated with anti-wrinkle injections?

The most commonly treated areas are the forehead lines, frown lines between the brows (glabellar lines), and crow’s feet around the eyes. Additional areas include bunny lines on the nose, lip lines, chin dimpling, jawline slimming (masseter reduction), neck bands (Nefertiti lift), a gummy smile, and brow lifting. We’ll assess which areas are appropriate for your anatomy during consultation.

How long do anti-wrinkle injections last?

Results typically last 3–4 months, after which muscle activity gradually returns and lines may reappear. With consistent treatment over time, many clients find their results last longer as muscles weaken with regular relaxation. We recommend booking your next appointment at around 12 weeks to maintain results consistently.

Does getting anti-wrinkle injections hurt?

Discomfort is minimal. The injections are administered with an ultra-fine needle and the treatment takes only a few minutes. Most clients describe the sensation as a brief, mild pinch. No anaesthetic is required, though we can apply a numbing cream for particularly sensitive clients. Post-treatment, there may be mild tenderness at injection sites for a few hours.

How long does the treatment take?

The actual injection process typically takes 10–20 minutes, though your appointment will include a consultation, facial assessment, and post-treatment aftercare advice. We never rush an anti-wrinkle appointment — proper assessment of your muscle anatomy is essential for natural-looking results.

When will I see results from anti-wrinkle injections?

You’ll begin to notice results within 3–5 days as the protein starts to take effect. Full results are visible at 10–14 days, which is why we recommend a review appointment at the two-week mark. If any areas need a small top-up adjustment, this is the ideal time to address it.

What is the downtime after anti-wrinkle injections?

Virtually none. You can return to normal activities immediately. We advise avoiding lying down for 4 hours after treatment, strenuous exercise for 24 hours, and alcohol on the day of treatment. Avoid facials, heat treatments, and massaging the treated area for at least 24 hours to prevent product migration.

Are anti-wrinkle injections safe?

When administered by a trained and qualified practitioner, anti-wrinkle injections have an excellent safety record and have been used medically for decades. Serious side effects are rare. The most common effects are temporary and localised — mild bruising, swelling, or headache. We take a full medical history before every treatment and will advise if any contraindications apply to you.

Will I still be able to show facial expressions?

Yes — when performed correctly, anti-wrinkle treatment softens muscle movement without eliminating expression. The goal at Crystalline Clinic is always a natural, refreshed result. We use conservative doses tailored to your anatomy and adjust based on your review appointment. The ‘frozen’ look associated with anti-wrinkle treatments is the result of overdosing — not the standard.

What’s the difference between anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers?

Anti-wrinkle injections relax muscles to smooth dynamic lines (lines caused by movement). Dermal fillers add volume to restore lost structure, fill static lines (lines present at rest), and enhance features like lips and cheeks. The two treatments are often combined for comprehensive facial rejuvenation — anti-wrinkle for movement lines, filler for volume loss.

Can anti-wrinkle injections be used preventatively?

Yes, and this approach is increasingly common. Starting treatment before deep lines become etched into the skin at rest can prevent permanent wrinkle formation. Many clients in their mid-to-late twenties choose preventative anti-wrinkle treatment to slow the ageing process. We’ll always advise whether preventative treatment is appropriate for your age and anatomy.

Can I exercise after anti-wrinkle injections?

We advise avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours post-treatment. Elevated heart rate and flushing can increase the risk of bruising or product migration. Light activity is fine, but hold off on intense gym sessions, running, or hot yoga until the following day.

Can I drink alcohol after anti-wrinkle injections?

We recommend avoiding alcohol on the day of your treatment. Alcohol thins the blood and can increase the likelihood and severity of bruising. After 24 hours, normal alcohol consumption is fine.

How much do anti-wrinkle injections cost in London?

Pricing at Crystalline Clinic is available on our website and varies depending on the number of areas treated. We price per area rather than per unit, so you always know exactly what you’re paying upfront. We’d always caution against choosing a provider based on the lowest price alone — the skill and training of your practitioner directly affects your safety and results.

Is it true anti-wrinkle treatment is addictive?

Not physically — there is no addictive substance involved. However, many clients choose to continue treatments because they enjoy the results. If you stop having treatment, your muscles simply return to their pre-treatment state over time. There is no permanent alteration to your face.