Anti Wrinkle Treatments
What is it?
Anti wrinkle injections are made of botulinum toxin type A. There are 3 products currently on the market in Australia. They all work in the same way, although constituted slightly differently which is why you may see price variations between the different products. In the end the cost is the same between products, you just need more units of some than others!
How does it work?
Wrinkles from muscle movement always form perpendicularly to the direction that the muscle contracts.
It binds the neuro receptors on the muscle that receive messages from the brain, basically blocking the message and decreasing the movement of the muscle. Once the muscle is relaxed, the collagen and elastin in the skin get to work repairing the static lines that were caused by the muscle contraction.
Is it safe and effective?
Yes! Botulinum toxin has been TGA approved for almost 40 years as a muscle relaxant for people that suffer from conditions causing muscle hyperactivity e.g. cerebral palsy. Approximately 25 years ago, medical practitioners started to realise that if you relaxed the muscle, you relaxed the wrinkle! The dosages we use for cosmetic purposes are very small compared to the medical purposes it was originally TGA approved for so we know it’s very safe.
When does it start working and how long does it last?
The effects usually start kicking in at roughly 2-3days. It takes 2 weeks to take full effect and usually lasts around 3-4months.
Risks and Aftercare
The main risk is bruising. Occasionally, patients will get a small needle-sized bruise at the sight of injection. This can be minimised by avoiding things that thin your blood eg fish oils, caffeine and alcohol. In rare cases there are risks of muscle asymmetry. This can be minimised by treating the site with care after your treatment. Avoid vigorous rubbing/scrubbing and heavy pressure to the area immediately after treatment. Also, heavy exercise is not recommended in the days immediately after the treatment, since the product is protein based and heavy exercise can break down the effects of the treatment.
Cost
This varies dependent on dose, some muscles are stronger than others. Here are some dosage guides below:
Frown lines = $250-$325
Forehead lines = $180-$250
Crows feet = $180-$260
Masseters = $450-$550