The growing popularity of wrinkle-relaxing treatments has led to a lot of curiosity around how they work, what to expect, and whether they’re the right choice for you. If you’re considering a non-surgical solution to smooth expression lines and refresh your appearance, this guide is for you.
What Are Wrinkle-Relaxing Treatments?
Wrinkle-relaxing treatments are often confused with volume-enhancing procedures, but they serve very different purposes. While volume-enhancing treatments can support areas like the cheeks, lips, or jawline, wrinkle-relaxing treatments are designed to soften the appearance of dynamic lines caused by repeated facial movement—such as smiling, frowning, or squinting.
How Do They Work?
A small amount of a muscle-relaxing product is gently placed into specific facial muscles. This temporarily reduces the activity of those muscles, helping to smooth lines that form during facial expressions. These treatments are commonly used to target areas such as crow’s feet, forehead lines, and frown lines between the brows.
This type of treatment should always be administered by a qualified and experienced healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Effects usually appear within a few days and continue to improve over 1 to 3 weeks, with results typically lasting 3 to 4 months.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed prior to treatment. In some cases, a numbing cream may be applied for comfort. The procedure itself involves a series of small injections using a very fine needle, and most people describe it as quick and relatively painless. The entire session generally takes 15 to 30 minutes.
When Will You See Results?
You’ll begin to notice a softening in expression lines within 2 to 7 days, with full results usually visible after about 14 days. It’s important to note that static lines—those visible when your face is at rest—may not respond immediately but can improve over time with consistent treatment.
Recovery & Aftercare
Some people notice tiny bumps or mild redness at the injection sites, which generally settle within 30 minutes. Occasional bruising can occur but typically fades quickly. More serious side effects are rare, especially when treatments are performed by a trained practitioner.
Potential risks can include:
- Drooping of nearby facial features (rare)
- Mild headache
- Temporary swelling or puffiness around the eyes
These risks can often be avoided with proper technique and individualised assessment by an experienced provider.
When Should You Consider Treatment?
Some individuals begin treatment as a preventative measure in their mid-to-late twenties, while others choose to wait until lines become more prominent. Both approaches are valid—it comes down to your personal goals and preferences.
Who Should Avoid This Treatment?
This treatment is not recommended for people who are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Experiencing an active skin infection at the treatment site
- Allergic to any of the treatment components
- Living with certain neurological or muscular conditions
Always book a consultation with a qualified provider to ensure the treatment is suitable for you.
FAQ – Wrinkle-Relaxing Treatments
How long do results last?
Typically, results last 3 to 4 months, although this can vary between individuals.
Do these treatments help with lost volume?
No, they only help with muscle-related lines. Volume restoration is achieved through other non-surgical treatments.
Does it hurt?
Most clients find the treatment comfortable. If you’re nervous, a numbing cream can be used.
Is there downtime?
Very minimal. You may experience slight redness or bumps for a short time after your appointment.
Are these treatments safe?
Yes—when administered by a qualified, experienced professional using approved products.
At That Face Place, our highly trained team takes the time to understand your skin, your goals, and your preferences. Our approach is conservative, natural, and designed to help you feel like the best version of yourself.
