Frequently Asked Questions

About Anti-Wrinkle Injections at Lumiere Clinic

1. What are anti-wrinkle injections?

   Anti-wrinkle injections are treatments using a chemical substance which temporarily relaxes the muscle, thereby reducing the formation of wrinkles.

2. How do anti-wrinkle injections work?

   Anti-wrinkle injections temporarily block the release of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a chemical substance that is released from nerve endings. It transmits signals to the muscle and causes the muscle to contract. By blocking the release of acetylcholine, the muscle is not able to contract fully. As the muscles do not move, the overlying skin stops forming creases. Over a few months, the muscles form new receptors and start to contract again.

3. Are they safe?

   The chemical substance within anti-wrinkle injections has been used for various medical reasons such as to treat muscle spasms since the 1980s. Its cosmetic value was first discovered by an ophthalmologist who injected the treatment to the eye muscles. For cosmetic reasons, the treatments are in much smaller units. Treatments are safe if they are delivered by a trained, qualified practitioner.

4. When will I see an effect?

   Anti-wrinkle treatments usually take 2 to 5 days to take effect, and the full effect is usually seen after 2 weeks.

5. How long do the effects last for?

   Anti-wrinkle treatments can last from 2 to 6 months. The average patient sees results last about 3 to 4 months.

6. When is the best time to have anti-wrinkle treatments?

   The best time to consider anti-wrinkle treatments in Manchester is when you begin to notice lines forming on your face even when you are not showing any expressions, or moving your facial muscles. These are called static lines. They usually happen in the 30s, but can vary from person to person depending on the individual’s genetic and lifestyle factors.

   Once the static lines are deep, it is difficult to soften them with anti-wrinkle injections and other additional treatments are often needed to improve their appearance. Anti-wrinkle injections can also be used to prevent the formation of static lines, by treating them early even before these lines start to form on the skin.

7. How is the treatment given?

   Anti-wrinkle injections in Manchester are given by small syringes with microfine needles. Several injection points are made into the skin overlying the target muscles.

8. What are the side effects?

   As the treatments have temporary effects, the side effects also tend to be temporary. Most commonly, there is some redness and swelling at the injection points immediately after treatment, which usually settle down after 1 hour. Bruising can occur and may take a few days or weeks to heal. Some people can have headaches or flu-like symptoms which usually improve with simple painkillers such as paracetamol.

9. What should I avoid after the treatment?

   Avoid touching the treated areas for at least 2 hours post-treatment to reduce the risk of infections. Avoid exposure to excessive heat such as the use of steam and sauna rooms, sunbeds and vigorous exercise for 24 to 48 hours post-treatment as these activities may potentially reduce the effectiveness of treatment.