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One of the main questions that I get asked as a Consultant Dermatologist is what is the difference between anti wrinkle injections and anti-wrinkle creams? These types of treatments have been in the press a lot in recent years, with many celebrities endorsing ‘magic’ creams and serums that they claim take years off their appearance.
So, with all this noise around non-medical wrinkle treatments, you may be asking yourself if it’s actually worth getting anti-wrinkle injections? In this article, we’ll explore the main differences between anti-wrinkle injections and creams, so you can make an informed decision about which treatment is right for you.
How do anti-wrinkle creams work?
Anti-wrinkle creams can contain a range of ingredients, and how well the product works depends on the ingredients used, depth of penetration (if they actually penetrate into the skin) as well as the person’s individual skin. Here are some of the main ingredients found in anti-wrinkle creams:
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- Retinol: A common ingredient in anti-wrinkle creams is retinol, a vitamin A compound. It renews and regenerates skin cells and stimulates new collagen production. It also has antioxidant properties, neutralising damage in the skin that can be caused by skin aging and environmental stress. It is also an effective skin exfoliator which can unclog pores.
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- Vitamin C: This is a powerful antioxidant ingredient which helps to protect the skin from sun damage, which causes wrinkles.
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- Peptides: Originally used in wound-healing products, they help to reinforce naturally-occurring proteins in the skin, smoothing wrinkles, increasing firmness and hydration.
- Hydroxy acids: These acids act as an exfoliant, scrubbing away dead skin cells and making skin look brighter and more youthful.
However, while these ingredients sound promising, these non-prescription, over-the-counter cosmetic creams are legally not allowed to contain enough concentrated amounts to have a significant effect in altering the structure or function of the skin. Also, some of these ingredients such as vitamin C and peptides are vulnerable to degradation and oxidation upon exposure to light and air, thereby losing its effectiveness.
How do anti-wrinkle injections work?
While they may sound like a pretty drastic way of reducing your fine lines and wrinkles, injections are the only way to go if you’re looking for a real transformation. Prior to your treatment, you will have a consultation with Dr Nicole, where she will chat with you about the procedure, what you’re looking to get from the treatment and whether anti-wrinkle injections are right for you.
It is important to consider anti-wrinkle injections early before the fine lines become too deep. In the early stages, anti-wrinkle injections can help to soften wrinkles, preventing them from becoming fixed as fine lines. Once the fine lines are fixed and deep, anti-wrinkle injections can help to soften their appearances, but may not be able to get rid of them completely.
If you go ahead with the treatment, Dr Nicole will perform targeted injections into your skin to help you achieve a more vibrant, youthful-looking you!
How long do anti-wrinkle treatments last?
Anti-wrinkle treatments usually last between 2 and 6 months, depending on the individual’s metabolism.
Do the injections hurt?
As with all injections, you will feel some stinging sensations during the treatment, and the severity of these feelings will depend on your pain threshold. Dr Nicole will do everything she can to make you feel comfortable during the procedure.
If you’ve got any questions regarding any of our treatments, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.