Your First Anti-Wrinkle Treatment: What to Expect

By Alex Donald, Registered Nurse | 15 August 2026

If you're considering anti-wrinkle injections for the first time, it's completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Over my 10+ years in appearance medicine, I've treated hundreds of first-time clients, and I always take the time to walk them through the process before any treatment begins. Here's what you can expect when you visit Embrace Cosmetics for your first anti-wrinkle treatment.

Step 1: The Consultation

Your first appointment always begins with a consultation. This is the most important part of the process — it's where I get to know you, understand your concerns, and assess your facial anatomy. I'll ask about your medical history, any medications you're taking, and what areas you'd like to address.

I'll also ask what you don't want. Some clients want a softening of lines while maintaining full expression. Others want a more noticeable result. Understanding your goals helps me determine the right treatment plan for you.

As a nurse working under the medical direction of Dr. Shareen Jacob, I'll assess whether anti-wrinkle treatment is appropriate for you. Certain conditions — pregnancy, breastfeeding, active infection, or neuromuscular disorders — mean treatment isn't suitable.

Step 2: The Treatment

Anti-wrinkle injections are remarkably quick. The treatment itself typically takes only 10-15 minutes. I use a very fine needle to inject a small amount of the product into the targeted muscles. Most clients describe the sensation as a mild sting rather than pain.

I'll ask you to make specific facial expressions — frowning, smiling, raising your eyebrows — so I can see exactly which muscles are creating the lines. This ensures precise placement for natural-looking results.

Step 3: Immediately After

You may notice small bumps at the injection sites — these settle within 15-30 minutes. Mild redness or swelling is possible but usually resolves quickly. You can return to your normal daily activities immediately, though I recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, lying flat, or touching the treated areas for the rest of the day.

Step 4: Seeing Results

Results don't appear instantly. If you're having Dysport, you'll typically notice softening within 2-3 days, with full results at 7-14 days. Relfydess tends to work faster — many clients see visible improvement within 24-48 hours.

Results generally last 3-4 months for Dysport and up to 4.5-5 months for Relfydess, though this varies by individual. We'll discuss your ideal treatment schedule during your consultation.

What Anti-Wrinkle Treatment Won't Do

• It won't freeze your face — the goal is softening, not immobility
• It won't erase static lines (lines present at rest) immediately — these may require a series of treatments
• It won't change who you are — just soften the lines that make you look tired or older than you feel

Preparing for Your Appointment

• Avoid blood-thinning medications (ibuprofen, aspirin) for 24 hours before treatment, unless prescribed
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before treatment
• Arrive with a clean face — no makeup
• Bring any questions you have — no question is too small

Read more: Anti-wrinkle injections overview | Relfydess treatment | Full pricing