Injectable treatments are used by medical practitioners to address a range of aesthetic concerns related to facial appearance. Two commonly used products in cosmetic medicine are anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers. While both are administered via injection, they serve different purposes and work through different mechanisms.
This article explains the differences between the two, including their composition, areas of use, and expected outcomes.
What Are Anti-Wrinkle Injections?
Anti-wrinkle injections involve the use of a substance containing botulinum toxin type A, which is a neurotoxin that temporarily blocks the signals between nerves and muscles. By limiting movement in targeted facial muscles, these injections can reduce the appearance of lines that form due to repeated facial expressions.
Key Information:
- Mechanism: Reduces muscle activity that contributes to dynamic wrinkles (lines that appear when making expressions such as frowning or smiling).
- Common treatment areas: Forehead lines, frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines), and lines around the eyes (crow’s feet).
- Duration of effect: Generally lasts around 3 to 4 months. Repeat treatments may be required to maintain the outcome.
- Administration: Performed by a medical practitioner in a clinical setting.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable products commonly made from hyaluronic acid or other biocompatible materials. These substances are used to add volume beneath the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of certain types of facial lines and support facial contours.
Key Information:
- Mechanism: Adds volume beneath the skin to address volume loss or support facial features.
- Common treatment areas: Cheeks, lips, chin, jawline, and nasolabial folds.
- Duration of effect: Depending on the product and area treated, the effects can last between 6 and 24 months.
- Administration: Must be provided by a health practitioner trained in cosmetic medicine.
Anti-Wrinkle Injections vs Dermal Fillers
Feature | Anti-Wrinkle Injections | Dermal Fillers |
Primary function | Temporarily reduces muscle activity | Adds volume beneath the skin |
Target concerns | Expression-related lines (dynamic wrinkles) | Volume loss, static lines, contouring |
Onset of action | Typically noticeable within a few days | Often immediate |
Duration | Around 3–4 months | 6–24 months (varies by product/area) |
Common areas | Forehead, glabella, crow’s feet | Lips, cheeks, chin, jawline |
Who Can Perform These Treatments?
Both anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers must be prescribed by a medical practitioner, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner. In Australia, only appropriately qualified health professionals registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) are permitted to prescribe and administer these treatments.
Prior to treatment, a face-to-face consultation must occur with the prescribing practitioner, during which a full medical history is taken, risks and benefits are explained, and informed consent is obtained.
Risks and Considerations
As with all medical procedures, there are risks associated with injectable treatments.
Possible risks may include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Discomfort at the injection site
- Asymmetry
- Infection
- Rare complications such as vascular occlusion (for fillers) or unintended muscle weakness (for botulinum toxin)
**Patients should be fully informed of the potential risks and realistic outcomes before proceeding. Individual results may vary, and outcomes are not guaranteed.
Is a consultation required before treatment?
Yes. A consultation with a qualified health practitioner is required prior to receiving either anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers. This includes a medical assessment and discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Can anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers be used together?
In some clinical contexts, a practitioner may recommend both treatments depending on individual concerns. This approach must be tailored based on a medical assessment.
Are these treatments suitable for everyone?
Not necessarily. Suitability is determined following a clinical consultation that considers your medical history, treatment goals, and any contraindications.
How long do results last?
Anti-wrinkle injections: Generally 3–4 months
Dermal fillers: May last from 6 to 24 months, depending on the product used and individual metabolism.
Considering Cosmetic Treatments?
If you’re considering anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers in the Noosa region, our qualified skin doctors at Coastal Skin & Laser Clinic are here to help. We offer personalised, one-on-one consultations to understand your concerns, discuss treatment options, and provide honest, medically sound advice tailored to your goals.
As part of our clinic policy, all patients must undergo a skin check with one of our GPs prior to any cosmetic treatment.
To learn whether cosmetic treatments are suitable for you, get in touch with Coastal Skin & Laser Clinic today. All consultations and procedures are carried out in line with AHPRA guidelines, prioritising patient safety, informed consent, and clinical best practice.
Important Disclaimer:
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. All cosmetic medical procedures carry risks and should be discussed with a registered medical professional. Individual suitability and results vary. Procedures must be performed by qualified practitioners in accordance with Australian medical guidelines and AHPRA regulations.
