Anti-wrinkle injections are one of the most common cosmetic treatments in the UK, and one of the most misunderstood. These are the myths we hear most often at the clinic, and what we tell patients instead.

Myth 1: Anti-wrinkle injections are dangerous

Anti-wrinkle injections use a prescription-only medicine that has been used in medicine for decades, in very small doses, and is widely studied. Like any medical treatment it carries risks, and they are lowest when the treatment is prescribed and carried out by a qualified doctor, at the recommended dose, after a proper medical history. That is why we never treat without a consultation.

Myth 2: You should only start once you have wrinkles

Treating early can help. Relaxing the muscles that crease the skin means the lines are repeated less often, so some people find they need less treatment later. It is not for everyone though. If your lines are minimal, the honest advice is sometimes to wait.

Myth 3: If you stop, your wrinkles will get worse

No. When the effect wears off, the muscles return to how they were and the lines return to how they would have been without treatment. Results are temporary, typically lasting three to six months, so there is no commitment to continue.

Myth 4: They are only for older women

People seek treatment at every age and many start in their late twenties or thirties for prevention. The decision should be yours, made for your own reasons, not because of age or pressure.

Myth 5: They are only for women

A growing number of our patients are men, who often want to soften a tired or stern expression while keeping a natural look. Men usually need a different treatment plan because of stronger facial muscles.

Myth 6: Everyone will know you have had them

The result should be a refreshed version of you, not a different face. The skill is in the dose and the placement, and the goal at this clinic is always a natural result.

Myth 7: You will look frozen or expressionless

A frozen look comes from too much medicine or poor placement. Done well, the muscles are softened rather than stopped, so you can still frown, smile and raise your brows, just with less creasing. A good doctor will agree the level of movement with you first.

Myth 8: They remove all lines

They work on lines caused by muscle movement (dynamic lines), such as frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet. Lines that are present at rest (static lines) come from ageing and sun damage, and respond better to other treatments such as fillers or skin-quality treatments. Part of the consultation is working out which kind you have.

Myth 9: The injections hurt

The needles are very fine and each injection is quick. Most people describe a small pinch or sting. Discomfort varies from person to person, and we can talk through ways to make it easier.

Myth 10: Skincare is just as good

Skincare and injections do different jobs. A cream cannot reach the muscles that cause expression lines. But good skincare improves skin quality and helps maintain results from treatment, which is why we offer medical-grade skincare alongside treatments.

The honest summary

Anti-wrinkle injections are a medical treatment, not a commodity. See a doctor, ask questions, and take your time.

To talk it through, book a free 30-minute consultation with Dr Azoo at the clinic in Ealing, call 07400 325 315 or email contact@drazoo.com.