What is it and how does it work?

Line smoothing treatments involves injections into muscle that leads to muscle relaxation (temporarily) by stopping signals that tell the muscle to contract. As a result, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles appear softer and smoother giving a more rejuvenated and natural look.

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The formation of fine lines and wrinkles is twofold; the process of ageing leads to a slower production of collagen and elastin in the skin thus influencing skin quality and appearance. Throughout life we also use our facial muscles for expression e.g. smiling and frowning and, with time, skin creases appear in areas of greatest use. As we age, areas over-used are reflected by the appearance of lines that become permanent.

 

Are line smoothing treatments safe and does it hurt?

The main component of this treatment has been used therapeutically for several years for a variety of medical conditions. More recently it has gained popularity for use in cosmetic therapy on muscles and sweat glands. It is given at minute doses with a high margin of safety when administered by a qualified professional. It is important to know that it does not travel around to other parts of the body.

A topical anaesthetic can be used if required and will be discussed with you at initial consultation. The treatment however is often pain free aside from mild discomfort at the point where the small needle injection is inserted.

 

What will the treatment involve and where can it be used?

You will be asked to use certain muscles of your face to see how they work. The treatment is administered in a series of small injections with a very fine needle into the muscles of your face. The areas injected may have some slight swelling and redness which usually resolves within 1-2 hours. The process itself is usually completed within 30 minutes.
 

Line smoothing treatments give subtle natural results and are most effective when used in the following areas:

• Forehead lines

• Frown lines

• Crows feet

• Lower face

• Neck

 

What about after my treatment and when should I expect to
notice results?

Following your treatment, Vedaskin® recommends that you follow all aftercare advice to ensure the best results possible. Treatment usually takes 3 to 5 days to begin working, the full effect resulting approximately 2 weeks following the treatment and last approximately 3-5 months.

• Try to contract the treated muscle areas for up to four hours after treatment to allow the toxin to reach all of the treated muscle(s).

• Do not lie down for four hours after the injections. It is also recommended that you don’t bend down, or do strenuous or aerobic exercise immediately after treatment. Please wait 48 hours before doing so.

• Avoid alcohol the day before and after treatment.

• You should avoid aggressive skin manipulation for up to one week after treatment. Do not rub or massage the area, as this can cause the toxin to spread beyond the treated area.

• Avoid treatments such as microdermabrasion, laser hair removal and electrolysis for 2 weeks after treatment, to prevent the toxin spreading beyond the treated area.

• No crash helmets, hard hats or scuba diving masks should be worn for 1 week after treatment to prevent excessive pressure on the area.

• If bruising develops then you can apply ice periodically, on and off for 10 minutes, followed by Arnica cream.

• It is not unusual to experience mild swelling/redness at the injection site for up to 48 hours post treatment.

• Paracetamol (unless contraindicated) can be taken for mild pain post procedure.

• Should you experience any loss of function of nearby muscles (e.g. eyelid ptosis) this is temporary and Vedaskin® is happy to discuss any concerns further with you.

• If required, we can only do a follow up on the 2nd or third week after treatment once effects become visible. Please note further line smoothing treatments to the same areas is not possible within 12 weeks of the area being treated.

 

How often can I have treatments?

Although the duration of effect can vary slightly between individuals, most will require further treatment after 3-4 months. With re-treatment and time, wrinkles visibly appear softened but one must be aware that deep lines may not disappear entirely.

 

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are short-lived and in most cases mild. The most common side effect is some mild redness, swelling or bruising at the site of injection.

In some cases there may be asymmetry of expression, drooping of the brow, or eyelid, headache or a sensation of ‘tightness’ or ‘heaviness’. It is important to know that adverse events are uncommon, usually become apparent within a few days of being treated and are expected to be temporary with spontaneous resolution within weeks.

There are known cautions and absolute contraindications to having treatment and these are:

• Viral or bacterial infection at the site of injection or nearby region

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Known allergy to any ingredient

• History of neuromuscular disorder (e.g. myasthenia gravis)

• Certain medications which affect bleeding e.g. Aspirin or Warfarin

• Current or recently completed a course of Roacutane (acne treatment) in the last 18 months

• Attending a special event whereby any side effects should they occur, would be unacceptable to you

 

Vedaskin® wants you to know that:

• We will not treat any individual 18 years of age or below.

• Due to the rising concerns of body dysmorphic disorder and other psychological conditions, if there is any concern from a professional view, we will confidently refuse to offer treatment and advise why.