Wrinkles

We help you find a reputable clinic nearby and explain the differences between various wrinkle treatments. What types of treatments are available, how do they work, and how do you make the right choice?

Prevent excessive signs of aging with a wrinkle treatment at a professional and trustworthy clinic.

How do wrinkles form?

To choose the right wrinkle treatment, it’s important to understand how wrinkles develop. There are at least four main causes, each addressed in different ways:

Aging
The primary cause of wrinkles is aging. The body produces less collagen and elastin proteins that keep the skin firm and elastic. A lack of these proteins leads to wrinkles, especially in areas frequently exposed to the sun. That’s why the first wrinkles often appear on the face and hands.

Genetics
Genetic factors play a big role in when wrinkles appear. Some people naturally have thicker skin or more facial fat, which helps delay the formation of wrinkles.

UV exposure and other factors
Exposure to UV rays from the sun is the main reason wrinkles develop faster. UV rays break down collagen and elastin. Smoking also speeds up aging by reducing blood flow to the skin. At the same time, free radicals form in the skin, causing further damage.

Lifestyle
An unhealthy lifestyle contributes to premature wrinkles. Poor diet, chronic stress, and lack of sleep are key external factors. Tip: ensure you get enough vitamins A, C, and E to help minimize wrinkle formation.

How does a wrinkle treatment work?

A wrinkle treatment usually consists of three phases. It starts with preparation, where the treating doctor or skin specialist at the clinic explains what will happen. For injectables such as Botox or fillers, a numbing cream may be applied during the procedure to reduce pain or discomfort. The injection itself usually takes only a few minutes.

After the treatment, some side effects may occur, such as redness, swelling, or bruising. These usually disappear within a few days. Surgical procedures can have more serious side effects, including swelling, scarring, or—in rare cases—infection.

Next, the skin goes through a recovery phase. Non-surgical treatments have a short recovery time, and you can often return to your usual activities within a few days. Surgical treatments generally take longer, often several weeks or even a few months, until you see the final result and feel back to normal.

Common wrinkle treatments:

• Wrinkles around the mouth

• Wrinkles under the eyes

• Smile lines

Wrinkle Treatment with Fillers

Dermal fillers (skin fillers) work completely differently from botulinum toxin, but they are also effective for treating wrinkles. Fillers fill in the wrinkle or skin, which smooths out lines, corrects unevenness, or improves facial contours.

Some fillers, like hyaluronic acid fillers, bind to water, which enhances the plumping effect and naturally restores volume to the skin. Other fillers, such as Radiesse or Ellansé, act as collagen stimulators. Collagen is one of the skin’s key building blocks, so these fillers also help smooth wrinkles and add volume naturally. All fillers approved in the United Kingdom are fully biodegradable, disappearing completely between 6 and 18 months, depending on the type.

Depending on the type of wrinkles or volume loss, a wrinkle treatment may involve either botulinum toxin or fillers.

Treatment with Fractional Laser or Peels

Superficial wrinkles can often be effectively treated with an ablative fractional laser or a chemical peel. These treatments renew the top layer of the skin, leading to the formation of new, smoother skin. The intensity of these treatments can vary significantly between clinics.

4 Types of Wrinkle Treatments

Compare four types of wrinkle treatments to get an idea of what’s possible. We’ll first explain the non-surgical options. Surgical treatments are the most invasive choice.

• Creams or Serums
Apply a cream or serum directly to the skin. These often contain retinol, which stimulates cell renewal and promotes collagen production. Another popular ingredient is hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains moisture, giving the skin a fuller appearance. Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, also help protect the skin from free radicals and contribute to a more even skin tone.

• Injectables (Botox and Fillers)
Botox and fillers are examples of injectables. Botox is used to temporarily relax frown lines and forehead wrinkles, with results lasting about 3 to 4 months. Hyaluronic acid fillers add volume to areas with deep wrinkles, such as the lines from the nose to the corners of the mouth or from the mouth to the chin. Results typically last 6 to 12 months.

• Laser Therapy
Fractional CO2 lasers stimulate collagen production and help remove damaged skin cells. They improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and can even treat pigmentation spots. Multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results.

• Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels
Microdermabrasion removes the top layer of skin, leaving it fresher and smoother. Chemical peels, such as superficial AHA peels or deeper TCA peels, exfoliate the skin to reduce wrinkles and promote an even skin tone.

You can also opt for a surgical treatment, such as a facelift. During a facelift, excess skin is removed and the skin is tightened, providing an immediate younger-looking appearance. Facelifts are often combined with neck lifts or eyelid corrections to achieve a natural result.

Price of Wrinkle Treatments

The average cost of a wrinkle treatment with botulinum toxin is £124.38 (as of January 2025). Fillers cost an average of £312.44 per milliliter in the United Kingdom (2025). Compare prices and offers at all clinics on Injectablesbooking.co.uk

Are Wrinkle Treatments Covered by Health Insurance?

No, wrinkle treatments with botulinum toxin or fillers are usually not covered by health insurance. In cases of partial facial paralysis or asymmetry following an accident (trauma), some clinics may offer partial reimbursement. Check with your insurance provider for more information.

How Much Does an Anti-Wrinkle Treatment Cost?

Of course, you want to know the cost of a wrinkle treatment beforehand. It’s best to get a quote directly from a clinic near you. In general, prices are approximately:

• Creams and serums: £17.32 – £173.24 per bottle

• Botox: £73.63 – £190.56 per area

• Fillers: £117.94 – £606.34 per ml

• Facelift: £3,464.80 – £8,662.00

Keep in mind that cosmetic procedures are usually not covered by health insurance. Some clinics do offer financing options, such as installment plans. Be sure to ask about the available options if you want more information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrinkle Treatments