Anti-wrinkle injections are most famously known via one brand name - BOTOX. They are a very clever use of a substance called botulinum toxin, which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.

Botulinum toxin is a purified protein that temporarily blocks the signal between a nerve and muscle, resulting in muscle relaxation. This works by preventing the release of a substance called acetycholine at the neuromuscular junction.

This effect is temporary and will typically wear off after 12-16 weeks.

This substance is tried and tested, proven to be safe and effective in numerous clinical studies, and is licensed for use in the UK.

Common and temporary side effects include bleeding/bruising, some swelling, and a mild post-treatment headache. More moderate side effects include drooping of the eyelids and eyebrows, but this can usually be avoided by careful and appropriate placement of the treatment. Even in the rare instance that this does occur, the effects will wear off on their own.

You cannot have anti-wrinkle injections if you have a neuromuscular disorder, are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Cosmetic procedures should not be performed on anyone who suffers body dysmorphia.

Before your treatment, avoid any medications that could increase your risk of bleeding and bruising (such as aspirin or ibuprofen), unless you are taking them as prescribed by your doctor. It's usually recommended that you avoid alcohol on the day before and after your treatment.

You will undergo a thorough consultation with Dr. Emmaline to discuss your goals and to plan your facial treatment. Because this is a prescription-only medication, it is a legal requirement that you are assessed face-to-face by your prescriber.

For the next four hours after the treatment, do not lie down or do any exercise that would involve bending forward or being upside down (like yoga). Avoid touching the treatment area to prevent any irritation, and do not put anything on your skin including makeup.

For the next 24 hours, you should also avoid any strenuous exercise that would cause you to be flushed or sweat, and avoid any heat (no saunas or steam rooms). Avoiding drinking any alcohol, or taking any tablets that could increase risk of bleeding and bruising like aspirin or NSAIDs. However, using your muscles of facial expression over the next two days will help the treatment gain its maximum effect. Remember, it takes a couple of days for the treatment to take full effect. Be vigilant about wearing SPF.

For the next two weeks you cannot have any other cosmetic procedures, no chemical peels, and no tanning beds.

There will be a follow-up appointment to review your results approximately two weeks after your initial treatment, and if any adjustments need to be made it will be done at that time.

There is no such thing as a Botox “top-up.” Every patient will be offered a 2-week review appointment to see if any adjustments are needed to make sure that the treatment outcome is just right and what was agreed to at the consultation. Reviews are always included for any cosmetic procedure.

"Baby Botox" described a method of injection that used smaller doses, opting for a more subtle softening of dynamic wrinkles and greater preservation of facial expression. It is becoming increasingly popular but it is a marketing term. Your injector should always tailor the treatment to what you goals are.

You can learn more about it here.