Anti-Wrinkle Treatments
Benefits
Treatment Time
Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
45 Minutes for first time patients
Longevity
Price
Results
Downtime
Full results 14 days post-treatment
Minimal to none
Prices start at £170 for 1 upper face area and £150 for individual treatments
Results typically last 3 - 4 months
Anti-Wrinkle Injections
What are anti-wrinkle injections?
Anti-wrinkle injections are a medical and cosmetic treatment involving the injection of botulinum toxin type A which is a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
Anti-wrinkle injections are a prescription only medication. There are different brands available in the UK including Botox, Bocouture and Azzulure, but often the word ‘botox’ is used to describe them all.
How do anti-wrinkle treatments work?
Blocking Nerve Signals: When injected into the muscle anti-wrinkle injections inhibit the release of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter that signals muscles to contract.
This is turn causes muscle relaxation and they can no longer create the repetitive movements that contribute to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the forehead, eyes (crow’s feet), and mouth.
What are the benefits of anti-wrinkle treatments?
1. Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Anti-wrinkle treatments are best known for targeting dynamic lines, caused by facial expressions like frowning, squinting, or raising the eyebrows. The most common areas to treat include the forehead lines, the crow’s feet (outer corners of the eyes), the frown lines (between the brows) and a gummy smile.
2. Prevents Future Wrinkle Formation: By relaxing the facial muscles, it limits movement that causes deepening of lines.
3. Lifts and Shapes Facial Features. Strategic placement of the injection points can create a subtle lift in areas such as the eyebrows (brow lift) to open up the eye area, the corners of the mouth to reduce the appearance of a downturned smile, and the jawline to give the appearance of tighter skin.
4. Slims the Jaw: Injecting into the masseter muscles (which we use for chewing), can reduce the width of the lower face, giving a more oval or V-shaped look. This is popular in facial contouring.
5. Softens Neck Bands: Anti-wrinkle injections can relax vertical bands in the neck (the Platysmal Bands) for a smoother, rejuvenated neck appearance.
6. Creates a Smoother, More Refreshed Look: Overall, it helps people look less tired, angry, or stressed by smoothing facial tension lines.
What should you expect when you book an anti-wrinkle treatment?
Before the Procedure
Consultation:
It is best to arrive without make-up. Pre-appointment you will have been asked to complete an online medical form that Dr. Caroline will go through with you in-person. This is to make sure that you are a suitable candidate for this procedure. She will then evaluate your facial anatomy, discuss what it is that you would like to achieve, and explain the treatment plan. If there are no medical contraindications, and you are happy to proceed, you will then be asked to read and sign the consent form and we will take some ‘before’ photos. These are only for your medical records, unless you consent otherwise.
Prep:
No special prep is needed pre-treatment, but we advise avoiding certain supplements or blood thinners for a week prior to reduce the chances of any minor bruising. This includes avoiding fish oil, vitamin E, Ginkgo biloba, ibuprofen and garlic supplements. Don’t stop aspirin unless Dr. Caroline has advised you to.
The Procedure Itself
Quick and simple:
Dr. Caroline will cleanse your face to begin with, and then use a white eyeliner pencil to mark up the injection points. The injections themselves are very quick and usually only take about 5 minutes.
Minimal discomfort:
Most people feel a small scratch from the injections. We use the world’s smallest needles, the TSK Needle, also known as ‘the invisible needle’ to minimise risk of bruising and discomfort. If you are feeling nervous, please let us know. We have lots of distraction tools and techniques that we can utilise to help you feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible during your procedure.
After the Procedure
You will experience temporary small, red raised swelling at the injection sites. These typically resolve themselves within 10-20 mins. Most people won’t even realise that you have just had a treatment performed.
There is always a possibly of minor bruising, however this is usually rare.
You will be booked in for a review appointment 2-3 weeks post-treatment to make sure that you are happy with the results and that the dosages were correct for your anatomy. If you feel that any minor adjustments are needed, this is when we will carry them out. Post-treatment reviews are complementary as they form part of your appointment.
What Is The Post-Treatment Aftercare?
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure optimal results and minimise side effects. Dr. Caroline will discuss this with you during your appointment. You will also be given a leaflet to take home and read, as well as a digital copy via email.
Patients are advised to remain upright for at least four hours following treatment and to avoid touching or massaging the treated areas. Strenuous exercise, alcohol consumption, and exposure to excessive heat, such as saunas or hot shower should be avoided for 48 hours to reduce the risk of bruising and product migration.
What Are The Risks/ Side Effects?
Whilst Anti-wrinkle treatments are usually considered very safe when administered by a qualified professional, as with any medical treatment, they do carry potential risks and side effects. Most are mild and temporary.
Common Side Effects (usually temporary)
Bruising or swelling at the injection site
Redness or tenderness
Mild headache
Drooping eyelid or brow (ptosis), usually temporary and rare
Asymmetry if the product settles unevenly
Less Common Risks
Flu-like symptoms
Dry eyes or excessive tearing
Nausea
Muscle weakness near the injection site
Rare but Serious Side Effects
If it spreads beyond the treatment area (extremely rare when dosed correctly), it can cause:
Difficulty swallowing or speaking
Breathing issues
Vision problems
These cases typically occur when Botox is used in high doses for medical, not cosmetic, reasons.
To Reduce The Risk:
Always choose an experienced and medically qualified injector
Follow all pre- and post- care instructions
Disclose any medical conditions, medication you are currently taking, or past reactions that you have experienced to your practitioner
When can you expect to see the results of your anti-wrinkle treatment?
Typically you will begin to see visible results within 3 to 5 days after treatment, with full effects developing by around 10 to 14 days.
The results usually last between 3 to 4 months, depending on individual factors such as metabolism, muscle activity, and treatment area. As the it gradually wears off usually around week 8, muscle movement slowly returns, and fine lines or wrinkles begin to reappear.
Most patient book in for injections every 3-4 months to keep up with the results and with consistent use you will also be preventing new wrinkles from forming.
Why choose Dr. Caroline Warden for anti-wrinkle injections?
With so many providers to choose from, why should you book your appointment with Dr. Caroline Warden?
Personalised Treatments
At Dr. Caroline Warden Aesthetic Clinic, we take the time to understand your unique facial anatomy, individual concerns and the results that you would like to achieve to ensure that every treatment is tailored specifically to you. This is so that Dr. Caroline can give you both natural-looking and balanced results that enhance your existing facial features.
Subtle, Natural-looking Results, Never Frozen
Dr. Caroline uses a technique designed to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, whilst keeping your facial expressions soft and natural. Our results ensure that you are still able to emote, as facial expression is important in how we communicate with one another, but that your skin looks smoother and more refreshed.
Convenience
Only doctors and dentists are legally allowed to hold stock of prescription drugs such as anti-wrinkle injections in England. This means that if there are no medical contraindications on the day, you are a suitable candidate, and you wish to proceed with the treatment after your consultation, you can have your treatment there and then instead of having to have a prescription arranged for you and coming back for a separate appointment to have your procedure.
Safety
In England, only doctors and dentists are legally allowed to hold stock of prescription emergency drugs, such as adrenaline, in the unlikely event of an anaphylaxis. Dr. Caroline is trained to respond to a medical emergency, with over 2.5 years of experience working in A&E
Advanced Training and Experience
Aesthetics is a rapidly evolving profession, with new treatments and advances in regenerative medicine emerging all the time. It is crucial that your aesthetic practitioner stays up-to-date with the latest techniques, treatments, and safe injection practices so that they can maintain exemplary safety standards, achieve greater precision during procedures and are able to offer their patients the best possible outcomes after every treatment.
Dr. Caroline has years of injecting experience, with a level 7 (diploma equivalent) in aesthetic medicine with the prestigious Harley Academy. It is crucial that you research your practitioner before committing to a procedure with them. Currently in England, all that is required for injectors to preform medical treatments is a 1-2 day course at a training academy.
Comfort and Trust
At Dr. Caroline Warden Aesthetic Clinic, our priority is to make sure that you feel safe, comfortable and informed. We understand that if you have never had any previous aesthetic treatments, it can be intimidating experience.
From your first consultation with Dr. Caroline, to your next follow-up appointment, we are always available to offer our attentive support on your personal journey. We are on-hand to help restore your confidence and build a long-term relationship with you based on trust and our expertise. Our clinic is a safe space for you to discuss any concern you have, openly and judgement-free.
Comprehensive Aftercare Support
We provide clear aftercare guidance for you to follow post-treatment and remain in contact to ensure you any concerns you may have are addressed. You are given access to Dr. Caroline Warden’s personal mobile number so that she is always available to answer any questions you may have.
Results You Will Love
Our patients return to us not just because of the great results that Dr. Caroline is able to achieve for them, but because of their overall experience at our exclusive clinic in Hale, and how they feel under Dr. Caroline’s care.
Anti-wrinkle Treatment FAQ’s
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Botox is a type of Botulinum Toxin Type A which is a prescription-only medicine that temporarily relaxes targeted facial muscles. By reducing muscle movement, it softens fine lines and dynamic wrinkles caused by repetitive facial expressions such as frowning, smiling or squinting.
Administered by a qualified medical professional, Botox offers a safe and effective non-surgical solution for facial rejuvenation.
Botox is one of the brands used and the most famous but there are several others.
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Botox relaxes muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions (like frown lines and crow’s feet).
Dermal fillers add volume and structure to restore lost facial volume, contour features, and smooth static lines. -
Yes, absolutely.
When performed by a highly skilled medical professional, Botox can produce beautifully natural results. The aim is not to freeze your face or eliminate all movement, but rather to soften fine lines while allowing you to retain natural facial expressions.At Dr. Caroline Warden’s clinic in Hale, Cheshire, every treatment is tailored to your unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Small, precise doses are used to gently relax overactive muscles without compromising your ability to smile, frown, or show emotion. The result is a fresher, more rested appearance, not an artificial or "overdone" look.
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Botox is already a brand name (this is a common mistake)
Dr Caroline Warden uses Bocouture as her toxin of choice.
Reasons why:
Highly Purified Formulation
Bocouture contains pure botulinum toxin type A which is it’s free from complexing proteins.
Fewer proteins may reduce the risk of antibody formation over time (i.e., less chance of developing resistance after repeated treatments).
Very Low Risk of Allergic Reaction
No complexing proteins = lower immunogenicity.
Ideal for patients who may be concerned about sensitivity or developing immunity.
Stable Results
Clinical studies show Bocouture offers consistent, predictable results in wrinkle reduction.
Give a very natural, soft finish which is better for patients wanting subtle, refined outcomes.
Licensed for Cosmetic Use in Europe
Widely used and trusted across Europe, including UK clinics.
CE certified and approved for cosmetic indications
Excellent Safety Profile
Similar safety and efficacy as other botulinum toxin brands.
Fewer additives = lower risk of side effects related to inactive ingredients.
Good for “Natural-Looking” Results
Especially suitable for patients wanting a fresher not frozen look.
Not tested on animals (unlike other brands)
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Dr Caroline Warden uses the worlds smallest botox needle so usually you barely/don’t feel a thing!
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At our doctor-led clinic in Hale, we commonly treat:
Forehead lines
Frown lines (glabellar or ‘11’ lines)
Crow’s feet (laughter lines around the eyes)
Bunny lines (sides of the nose)
Lip lines (smoker’s lines)
Gummy smile
Downturned smile
Jawline slimming (masseter reduction)
Neck bands (platysmal bands)
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Yes, when administered correctly by a qualified medical professional, Botox is considered very safe and is one of the most widely studied and commonly performed cosmetic procedures worldwide.
Extensive Medical Research
Botox (botulinum toxin type A) has been used medically for over 30 years, both in cosmetic and therapeutic treatments.
It is licensed for cosmetic use to treat frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet.
There are over 500 peer-reviewed clinical studies demonstrating its safety and efficacy.
Administered by Medical Experts
The safety of Botox strongly depends on who performs the treatment.
In the hands of a highly trained, experienced medical professional such as Dr. Caroline Warden (NHS GP and aesthetic doctor), the risks are extremely low.
Proper knowledge of facial anatomy, correct dosing, sterile technique, and patient selection are essential for safe and effective results.
Unfortunately at time of writing (June 2025) aesthetics in the UK is still unregulated and shockingly anyone can legally administer botox to the public.
Is There a Risk of Long-Term Problems?
No evidence suggests long-term harm from cosmetic Botox use in healthy individuals.
Botox does not accumulate in the body and its effects wear off naturally over time.
Regular treatment may, in some people, help prevent the development of deeper static lines as muscles stay relaxed.
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At Dr. Caroline Warden Aesthetic Clinic in Hale, Cheshire, patient safety is always the highest priority. While Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is a very safe and widely used treatment, it’s important to be fully informed of possible side effects.
Common Side Effects (usually mild and temporary):
These are the most frequently experienced and typically resolve within a few hours to a few days:
Redness or slight swelling at the injection site
Mild bruising
Tenderness or slight discomfort
Temporary headache
A feeling of tightness or heaviness as the product starts to take effect
Less Common Side Effects:
Occasionally, patients may experience:
Temporary drooping of the eyelid or brow (known as ptosis)
Asymmetry in facial expressions
Dry eyes or excessive tearing
Flu-like symptoms or mild fatigue
These effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own as the Botox gradually wears off.
Rare Side Effects (extremely uncommon in expert hands):
Allergic reaction (swelling, rash, itching)
Muscle weakness beyond the treated area
Breathing or swallowing difficulties (very rare and usually only associated with much higher therapeutic doses used in medical treatments, not cosmetic doses)
How Risks Are Minimised:
Thorough medical consultation and screening before treatment
Expert knowledge of facial anatomy
Accurate, conservative dosing
Safe, sterile injection technique
Aftercare advice provided to every patient
At Dr. Caroline Warden’s clinic, every patient receives a personalised assessment to ensure treatment is both safe and appropriate.
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Most healthy adults aged 18-65 are suitable for Botox, but a full medical consultation is essential. During your consultation at our Hale clinic, Dr Caroline Warden will assess your facial anatomy, medical history, and aesthetic goals to determine your suitability. Botox is not suitable for those who are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding due to the lack of safety data.
Botox is also unsuitable for those who have certain neuromuscular disorders such as Conditions e.g. Myasthenia Gravis, Lambert-Eaton Syndrome and ALS. These patients may have increased sensitivity to botulinum toxin.
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You may start to see results within 3–5 days, with full results visible at around 10–14 days.
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Many patients choose to have a top-up every 3 to 4 months to maintain consistent results.
Regular maintenance helps prevent deeper lines from becoming more established over time.
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Supplements to Avoid Before Botox or Dermal Fillers:
Fish Oil / Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Can thin the blood and increase bruising risk.
Vitamin E
Known to have blood-thinning effects.
Ginkgo Biloba
May increase bleeding risk.
Garlic Supplements
Has mild blood-thinning properties.
Ginseng
Can affect blood clotting.
St. John’s Wort
May interfere with some medications and healing.
Turmeric / Curcumin Supplements
Natural anti-inflammatory but can thin blood.
Tips:
Ideally, avoid these supplements for 7–10 days before treatment.
Inform Dr Caroline Warden about all supplements you take.
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Some people start Botox in their late 20s to early 30s to stop fine lines becoming permanent.
Others begin in their 30s or 40s or 50s to soften now existing deeper lines and maintain a smooth, youthful appearance.
The right time to start depends on your skin, muscle activity, and personal goals.
During your consultation, Dr Caroline Warden will assess your needs and create a bespoke plan.
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Medications That May Interact with Botox and need discussion with a doctor for consideration:
Aminoglycoside Antibiotics
Examples: Gentamicin, Neomycin, Amikacin, Tobramycin, Streptomycin
Why: These can increase the effects of botulinum toxin and raise the risk of muscle weakness or paralysis.
Muscle Relaxants
Examples: Baclofen, Cyclobenzaprine, Tizanidine
Why: Combined effect may increase muscle weakness.
Anticoagulants and Blood Thinners
Examples: Warfarin, Heparin, Aspirin, Clopidogrel, NOACs (e.g. Apixaban, Rivaroxaban)
Why: Increased risk of bruising or bleeding at injection sites.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Examples: Amlodipine, Verapamil, Diltiazem
Why: May potentiate muscle relaxation effects.
Aminopyridines
Used in some neurological disorders; may increase side effects.
What You Should Do:
Always provide your full medication list during your consultation with Dr Caroline Warden
Never stop prescribed medications without consulting your GP/specialist
Dr Caroline Warden will assess risks and decide if treatment is safe or needs adjustment.
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Typical Duration
Botox results usually last 3 to 4 months after treatment.
For some individuals, especially first-time patients, results may initially wear off slightly sooner, around 2.5 to 3 months.
With regular treatments, many patients notice the effects lasting a bit longer as the muscles remain more relaxed over time.
Why Do Results Wear Off?
Botox works by temporarily blocking signals between nerves and muscles.
Over time, the nerves regenerate their ability to signal the muscles to contract.
This gradual return of muscle activity causes lines and wrinkles to reappear.
Factors That Affect Longevity
Individual muscle activity and facial expressions
Metabolism and lifestyle (e.g., exercise levels)
Dosage and area treated
Frequency of treatments
Consistency of follow-up appointments
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Very rare. True allergic reactions to Botox are extremely uncommon.
Botox is a purified protein, but like any treatment, there’s a small risk of sensitivity or allergy.
What Allergic Reactions Could Look Like:
Mild: Rash, itching, redness at injection site
Moderate: Swelling, hives
Severe (very rare): Anaphylaxis (life-threatening, but almost never seen with Botox)
How Rare Are Allergic Reactions?
Estimated to occur in less than 1% of patients.
Most side effects are related to injection technique or local reactions and not true allergy.
🧪 What Causes Sensitivity?
Sometimes it’s a reaction to inactive ingredients or preservatives in the formulation hence why Dr Caroline Warden only uses a ‘pure formulation’ like Bocouture which may reduce this risk because they have fewer complexing proteins.
How We Minimise Risk:
Comprehensive medical history and allergy checks before treatment.
Small test doses if you have a history of multiple allergies or sensitivities.
Ready to book your consultation?
Let’s get you started on your journey today.