Medically reviewed by Hassan Khan, MPharm — independent prescriber (GPhC registration 1126145). Treatments are carried out by our trained aesthetics practitioner following a prescriber assessment.

What are anti-wrinkle injections?

Anti-wrinkle injections are a quick, prescriber-led treatment that softens the fine lines and wrinkles caused by everyday facial expressions — frowning, squinting and raising the brows.

They use a prescription-only muscle-relaxing injection placed in precise points across the upper face. By gently and temporarily relaxing the small muscles that crease the skin, the lines above them are softened and the skin looks smoother and more rested. Because the medicine is prescription-only, a prescriber must assess your suitability before any treatment — which is exactly how our clinic works. Results develop gradually and individual results vary.

How anti-wrinkle injections work

When you frown or raise your eyebrows, the muscles underneath repeatedly fold the overlying skin. Over years, those folds settle into lines that stay visible even at rest. A tiny, measured dose of the muscle-relaxing medicine reduces that repeated movement, so the skin is creased less and existing lines have a chance to soften. The effect is targeted: your practitioner treats only the muscles agreed at your consultation, so your natural range of expression is preserved.

The three areas we treat

Most people ask about the classic “three areas” of the upper face — the areas where expression lines show first:

• Forehead lines — the horizontal lines that appear when you raise your eyebrows.
• Frown lines — the vertical lines between the brows (sometimes called the “11s” or glabellar lines).
• Crow’s feet — the fine lines that fan out from the outer corners of the eyes when you smile.

You do not have to treat all three. Some people choose a single area; others prefer a balanced result across the upper face. Your prescriber will talk through what is realistic for your skin and which areas — if any — are appropriate for you.

What to expect at your appointment

Your first visit is a consultation. We take a short medical history, discuss what is bothering you and what you would like to achieve, and check that treatment is suitable and safe for you. If you decide to go ahead and the prescriber agrees it is appropriate, the injections themselves take only a few minutes using very fine needles. Most people describe the sensation as a quick, small scratch. There is no need for anaesthetic and you can usually return to your day straight afterwards, following some simple aftercare advice.

How long do anti-wrinkle injections last?

For most people the effect lasts around three to four months, though this varies from person to person and with the area treated. As the muscle action gradually returns, lines slowly reappear and a repeat treatment can be arranged. Many people find that with regular treatment the lines become less pronounced over time. We will never pressure you into a maintenance schedule — how often you return, if at all, is entirely your choice.

Is it right for you?

Anti-wrinkle injections are only suitable for some people, which is why the prescriber assessment matters. They are for adults aged 18 and over, and are not given during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you have certain neuromuscular conditions or an allergy to any of the ingredients. If your lines are mainly caused by lost volume or skin quality rather than muscle movement, a different treatment — such as skin boosters — may suit you better. Being honest about what will and will not help is part of prescriber-led care.

Why prescriber-led matters

Anti-wrinkle injections cost — what’s included

The cost depends on how many areas you have treated and is confirmed for you at your consultation, so you always know the price before you decide. Every treatment includes your prescriber assessment, the treatment itself, aftercare advice and a review if you need one — there are no hidden extras. We do not run flash sales or “buy now” offers on prescription treatments, because that is not how safe, prescriber-led care should work.

Aftercare

Aftercare is simple. For the rest of the day, avoid rubbing or massaging the treated areas, strenuous exercise, alcohol and lying flat, and skip saunas, sunbeds and facials for a couple of days. You will be given full written advice, and you can always contact us if you have any questions as your result develops over the following one to two weeks.

Anti-wrinkle injections: your questions answered

Explore more: Aesthetics clinic hub · What are anti-wrinkle injections? · How long do they last? · Cost UK — what’s included · The 3 areas explained · Skin boosters