Wrinkle-relaxing injectables have become one of the most sought-after treatments in aesthetic medicine for their ability to smooth fine lines and refresh the face without surgery or downtime. Products like Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin are commonly used to temporarily relax the muscles that cause expression lines, helping clients achieve a more youthful and rested appearance. Whether you’re exploring injectables for the first time or simply want to understand how they work, this guide will walk you through the science behind these treatments and what to expect before, during, and after your appointment.
In This Blog:
- What Are Wrinkle-Relaxing Injectables?
- How Do They Work?
- The Consultation Process
- The Treatment Experience
- Aftercare and Recovery
- Who Is a Good Candidate?
- Combining Injectables with Other Treatments
What Are Wrinkle-Relaxing Injectables?
Wrinkle-relaxing injectables are a type of neuromodulator treatment designed to temporarily reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles which are caused by repetitive facial movements like frowning, squinting, or raising the eyebrows. The most widely known brands include Botox®, Dysport®, and Xeomin®, all of which are FDA-approved and derived from a purified form of botulinum toxin type A.
Unlike dermal fillers, which add volume to areas of facial deflation or deep folds, wrinkle-relaxing injectables work by addressing the muscle activity that contributes to fine lines and wrinkles. These treatments are most commonly used in the upper face to target areas such as:
- Horizontal forehead lines
- Vertical frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines)
- Crow’s feet around the eyes
Many patients also benefit from off-label use in areas like the chin, jawline, and neck, depending on their individual goals and facial anatomy.
How Do They Work?
Wrinkle-relaxing injectables work by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that trigger muscle contractions. When injected into targeted facial muscles, the neuromodulator prevents those muscles from contracting as forcefully, which in turn softens the appearance of lines that form during facial expressions. Over time, this reduced muscle activity can even help prevent the formation of deeper wrinkles.
The effects are not immediate. Most people begin to see visible improvement within 3 to 7 days after treatment, with full results typically developing in 1 to 2 weeks. The smoothing effect lasts approximately 3 to 4 months, though this can vary depending on the product used, the treatment area, and the individual’s muscle activity.
By selectively relaxing specific muscles while preserving natural movement, wrinkle-relaxing injectables offer a subtle, refreshed look without changing your facial expressions.
The Consultation Process
Before receiving any wrinkle-relaxing injections, a professional consultation is essential. During this visit, your provider will take the time to understand your aesthetic goals, evaluate your facial anatomy, and determine which areas may benefit most from treatment. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and share any concerns you may have.
Your provider will review your medical history, including any allergies, medications, or health conditions that could affect treatment. For safety reasons, individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neurological disorders may be advised to postpone or avoid the procedure.
After the assessment, your provider will develop a personalized treatment plan, outlining the number of units needed, the targeted injection sites, and realistic expectations for results. A good provider will prioritize natural-looking outcomes and ensure the treatment aligns with your facial dynamics and lifestyle.
The Treatment Experience
The actual treatment with wrinkle-relaxing injectables is quick and minimally invasive. Once your face is cleansed and the injection sites are marked, your provider will use a fine needle to administer the product into specific facial muscles. The number of injections depends on the area being treated. For example, smoothing forehead lines may require several small injections across the brow.
Most patients describe the sensation as a mild pinch or pressure, and the process typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. While numbing cream is usually not required, it can be offered for added comfort if desired.
There’s no downtime required, and many people return to their normal activities immediately after treatment. Minor redness, swelling, or pinpoint bruising at the injection sites may occur, but these effects typically subside within a few hours to a couple of days.
Aftercare and Recovery
Wrinkle-relaxing injectables require minimal aftercare, but following a few simple guidelines can help ensure optimal results. After your treatment, you should avoid rubbing or massaging the injection sites for at least 24 hours to prevent the product from spreading to unintended areas. You’ll also want to stay upright for four to six hours and avoid strenuous exercise for the rest of the day.
Mild side effects such as redness, tenderness, swelling, or slight bruising may occur at the injection sites but typically resolve quickly. In rare cases, temporary eyelid drooping or asymmetry can occur, which is why choosing a skilled provider is essential.
Results begin to appear within a few days and generally reach their peak at around 7 to 14 days post-treatment. The smoother, more relaxed appearance typically lasts 3 to 4 months, after which follow-up treatments can be scheduled to maintain your look.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Wrinkle-relaxing injectables are ideal for individuals who want to minimize dynamic facial wrinkles without surgery or extended downtime. Good candidates generally:
- Are in good overall health
- Have moderate to strong facial expression lines
- Are looking for subtle, temporary improvements in their appearance
- Have realistic expectations about the results
These treatments are commonly chosen by adults in their late 20s to 60s, whether to prevent wrinkles from forming or to soften existing lines. However, they may not be suitable for those with certain neuromuscular conditions, allergies to ingredients in the product, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding. A thorough consultation will help determine if wrinkle-relaxing injectables are the right option for your needs and goals.
Combining Injectables with Other Treatments
Wrinkle-relaxing injectables work well as a standalone treatment, but they can also be combined with other medspa services for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Many clients choose to pair them with dermal fillers, which restore lost volume in areas like the cheeks, lips, and under the eyes. Unlike wrinkle-relaxing injectables, dermal fillers address static wrinkles that injectables alone can’t treat.
Additional treatment combinations may include:
- Microneedling for skin texture and collagen stimulation
- Chemical peels or laser treatments to address pigmentation and surface concerns
- Medical-grade facials to enhance overall skin health and glow
A personalized treatment plan may stagger these procedures over time for optimal safety and results. Combining therapies allows clients to target multiple signs of aging with a more natural and balanced aesthetic outcome.
Conclusion
Wrinkle-relaxing injectables offer a safe, effective, and minimally invasive way to smooth expression lines and refresh your appearance. By temporarily relaxing overactive facial muscles, these treatments help prevent the deepening of wrinkles and promote a more youthful, rested look. Whether you’re just starting to notice fine lines or looking to maintain your results over time, a consultation with Modern Image Aesthetics and Wellness is the best way to explore your options and create a tailored plan.
