Wrinkle Relaxers
Wrinkle relaxer treatment, once reserved for celebrities, has become increasingly popular and accessible for men and women alike. Treatment involves very small injections of a purified protein which works by relaxing facial muscles by inhibiting the activation of nerves within the muscle fibres. This results in a temporary reduction in visible dynamic frown lines and wrinkles, i.e. those lines caused by movement of the muscles.
How long do wrinkle relaxers last?
The effects of wrinkle relaxer treatment usually occur within 2–3 days post-injection but may be noticed in some individuals in the first 24 hours. It may take up to 4 weeks for peak effect of the treatment, with the duration of effect lasting approximately 3-5 months. The effects may vary from patient to patient depending on the dose administered and the individual patient differences. Treatment effects are all temporary.
Do the injections hurt?
The pain has been described as similar to that of a sharp pinch or an ant bite, lasting only for a few seconds. Some patients don’t even feel the injections, as the needles used are very small.
How much does it cost?
This depends on the areas treated and the amount of units injected. Treatment of major areas such as the forehead, glabellar (frown lines) or crow’s feet will range from $150-$200 per area.
What are the possible side effects?
The most frequent side effect reported after treatment of the glabellar and forehead region is headache; other side effects may include discomfort, burning, redness or bruising at the injection site, local muscle weakness including temporary drooping of the eyelids, double vision and flu-like symptoms. Side effects are temporary and in the case of eyelid drooping, generally resolve spontaneously within 2–4 weeks.
Please note that every procedure carries potential side effects and these are best discussed with your doctor at the time of your consultation.
When is wrinkle relaxer treatment not recommended?
Treatment with muscle relaxers is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, any patient with a medical condition of a neuro-muscular type such as myasthenia gravis and certain neurological disorders; or if there is any sign of infection at the proposed injection site. Caution should also be exercised in patients taking blood thinning medication as this may cause excessive bruising around the injection site.
What to consider when getting muscle relaxer treatment.
- Choose a practitioner who is a qualified and experienced to perform the procedure.
- Attend a consultation before committing to the injectables, and ask for a treatment plan to outline how much work you need and how often you’ll need to return.
- The maximum benefit of wrinkle relaxer injections can take 2-3 weeks, therefor consider the timing of your treatments for optimum results.
Note: Due to TGA restrictions in Australia, we are unable to mention drug or brand names on this website.