As we age we get fine lines, which develop into wrinkles. Wrinkles are typically formed perpendicular to a contracting muscle located directly underneath it – i.e. the muscle in your forehead is a vertical muscle, and when you raise your eyebrows it contracts, forming horizontal lines across your forehead.

The two muscles responsible for the frown lines lie slightly horizontally between the eyebrows, so when they contract, the frown lines appear vertical. These frown lines are very common and respond very well to Anti-Wrinkle Injections Treatments.

Anti-Wrinkle Injections work when injected into a muscle by blocking nerve impulses to those tissues. The muscle activity causing the frown lines is reduced and a smoother look results. Without a contracting muscle beneath it, the skin has a difficult time wrinkling.

Static and Dynamic Wrinkles

Facial lines that exist when your face is totally relaxed are called ‘static’ wrinkles; meaning they stay there after you’ve finished making a facial expression. They are not good candidates for anti-wrinkle treatments, and are better eliminated using dermal filler. Anti-Wrinkle Injections can frequently “soften” these lines but not always get rid of them.

Anti-Wrinkle Treatments are best for ‘dynamic’ wrinkles; ones that appear as you’re making a facial expression like frowning. Injecting the muscles takes only moments, and Cosmetic Doctor staff have an excellent understanding of underlying facial musculature so know exactly where to place the injections for maximum impact; they’ll ask you to frown a few times to study your particular lines.

Anti-Wrinkle Treatments require two to four days for it to attach to the nerve ending that would normally stimulate the muscle to contract.

How Often Should You Get Anti-Wrinkle Injections?

You’re probably wondering how long Anti-Wrinkle Injections last. Most people see effects for three to four months, but several factors may shorten or lengthen that period:

• Your age. Older people with less muscle tone may see results diminish sooner than those with younger, firmer facial muscles.
• Your facial structure and expressions.
• Whether you smoke.
• Your diet.
• Whether you take good care of your skin; use facials, microdermabrasion or other resurfacing methods.
• How much sun you get and how much sun damage your skin already has.
• Whether you use muscle relaxing injections repeatedly or not.

The frequency of injections and their effects varies by patient; some get a longer-lasting effect with repeated use, while others appear to develop a resistance to the drug and need more frequent treatments.

Dr. Fay will monitor your responses and your time between injections and suggest the best treatment options for your particular skin.

To book an appointment at Cosmetic Doctor, Dublin, call 01 685 3100 or email info@cosmeticdoctor.ie