Wondering how long do anti-wrinkle injections last? While it’s a highly effective and popular procedure, the duration of their effects is not permanent and depends on several factors and what you do afterwards, which we will cover in this article.
The visual results of Anti-wrinkle injections will typically last anywhere between three to four months. Regular cosmetic treatments can increase the time frame because the muscles targeted will weaken over time. If you decide to stop the treatment, the muscles will return to normal, and your skin will appear as it was before.
Understanding How Injectables Work
Before knowing how long injectable results can last, it is important to see how they work.
The most common type of anti-wrinkle injection treatment is Botox, which is a type of neurotoxin that works by relaxing the muscles responsible for creating wrinkles commonly on the face, including forehead lines, between the eyebrows (frown lines), around the eyes (crow’s feet) smile lines, and lines on the nose.
A small amount of the injectable is administered directly into the muscle using a very fine needle during the procedure. This temporarily paralyzes the muscle movement, preventing it from contracting and creating wrinkles. As a result, the skin appears smoother and younger-looking. The product generally takes 7-14 days after the injection to take full effect.
Factors that Can Influence Results
It is worth noting that individual results may vary, and some patients may experience shorter or longer-lasting effects depending on their unique circumstances. The three biggest factors that influence how long the effects of anti-wrinkle injections will last are:
Age
Age can significantly affect how long the effects of anti-wrinkle treatments last. Younger patients tend to have more elastic skin and may experience longer-lasting results than older patients with more pronounced wrinkles and lines.
Skin Type
Patients with thinner skin may experience shorter-lasting results than those with thicker skin. Additionally, patients with oily skin may experience a faster breakdown of the injectable material, leading to shorter-lasting effects.
Dosage
Higher dosages of the injectable can result in longer-lasting effects, but too high a dose can lead to complications and unwanted side effects. Lower doses may not provide long-lasting results.
Other factors that can influence the results include certain facial movements, the frequency of talking, sun exposure, and the individual’s overall skin health. For best results, it is recommended to avoid alcohol for at least one week before the procedure and stop taking anti-inflammatory medications and aspirin at least two weeks before treatment. This can help to reduce bruising and enhance the effectiveness of the injections.
What You Can Do To Extend Results
Keep up the Treatments – As the muscles slowly regain their function, the lines and wrinkles will reappear, making it necessary to repeat treatment to maintain the desired results. Over time, the muscles in the treatment area will shrink with each treatment, allowing for longer intervals between treatments.
Stop Smoking – Besides the significant health issues associated with smoking, it can also harm the facial skin, especially the smoker’s lines around the mouth. If a person begins smoking after the procedure, their skin may become dry, leading to quicker wrinkle reappearance.
Wear Sunscreen – When exposed to UV rays, the skin produces an enzyme known as collagenase, which contributes to collagen breakdown. This leads to the emergence of wrinkles, fine lines, and other visible signs of facial aging. Wear sunscreen whenever you go out in the sun.
Get Lots of Beauty Sleep – Numerous studies have established a clear link between sufficient sleep and healthy skin, so sacrificing or lacking sleep can work against your injectables in the long run. While you are resting, your body is actively engaged in repairing any damage to your skin’s condition, so ensuring you get regular 8 hours of sleep a night is critical.
Take Zinc – Medical studies have shown that supplements such as zinc can boost anti-wrinkle injections. In one study, 93% of patients took a combination of zinc and an enzyme called phytase a few days before receiving injectables, with tests revealing a notable increase in the effect and duration of their results.
Aftercare instructions – Following your procedure, the Cosmetic Surgeon will provide a detailed aftercare or maintenance plan containing everything you should and shouldn’t do and schedule follow-up appointments to receive touch-up treatments for the best results.
Want to Find Out More?
The decision to get treated with anti-wrinkle injections is a personal one, and by understanding how they work and the factors that can influence their longevity, you can make an informed decision about whether this treatment is right for you. It’s always important to have realistic expectations of treatment outcomes, so speaking with an experienced, qualified professional like Chelsea Cosmetics is critical to assess your needs and determine your best treatment plan. If you are located in Melbourne and have more questions about how long anti wrinkle injections last, call our cosmetic clinic on (03) 8822 3472
