As we get older, our faces naturally change. Skin loses some of its elasticity, expression lines become more visible, and volume that once sat plump in our cheeks and lips can start to soften. It’s a completely normal part of ageing, but more and more people are looking for gentle, non-surgical ways to feel confident in their skin without going anywhere near a scalpel.
Two of the most popular treatments for this are anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers. They’re often mentioned in the same breath, and it’s easy to see why people mix them up. Both are quick, non-surgical, and can be done during a lunch break. Both involve a fine needle. And both can leave you looking fresher and more rested. But they work in completely different ways, and choosing the right one (or the right combination) makes a real difference to your results.
At Mint Dental Clinic, we offer facial aesthetics treatments to patients across Elephant and Castle and the wider London area, and one of the most common questions we hear in consultations is simply: “which one do I actually need?” This guide walks through exactly what each treatment does, where they differ, and how to work out which is right for you.
What Are Anti-Wrinkle Injections?
Anti-wrinkle injections work by temporarily relaxing the small muscles beneath the skin that cause dynamic wrinkles — the lines that appear when you frown, raise your eyebrows, or squint. Over time, repeated muscle movement etches these lines into the skin even when your face is at rest. By softening the muscle activity, the injections stop the crease from forming in the first place, allowing the skin above to settle and smooth out.
The most common treatment areas are the forehead, the frown lines between the eyebrows (often called the “elevens”), and crow’s feet at the outer corners of the eyes. Some practitioners also use small doses around the jawline to ease teeth grinding, or above the lip for a subtle “lip flip” effect.
Results aren’t immediate. Most people start to notice softening after three to five days, with the full effect visible at around two weeks. It typically lasts three to four months, after which the muscle gradually regains its usual movement and top-up treatment is needed to maintain results.
Recovery is minimal — there’s no downtime, and most patients return to normal activities straight away, though we’d suggest avoiding strenuous exercise or lying flat for a few hours afterwards. This treatment tends to suit people who are mainly concerned with expression lines caused by muscle movement, rather than a loss of volume or facial structure.
What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers take a different approach altogether. Rather than relaxing muscles, they add volume and structure using a gel typically made from hyaluronic acid — a substance the body already produces naturally to keep skin hydrated and plump. As we age, our natural hyaluronic acid levels decline, which is part of why cheeks can look hollow and lines around the nose and mouth become more pronounced.
Fillers restore that lost volume, smooth out static lines (the ones visible even when your face is relaxed), and can reshape or enhance areas like the lips, cheeks, jawline, and chin. Because they work by adding structure rather than limiting movement, fillers are often the better choice for facial contouring and correcting volume loss, rather than expression lines alone.
Results are visible immediately, though some initial swelling can make the area look slightly fuller than the final result for the first week or two. Depending on the product and treatment area, results typically last anywhere from six months to eighteen months, with lip and under-eye fillers tending to break down faster than cheek or jawline fillers.
Downtime is generally low, though mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising at the injection site is common for a few days. A good practitioner will always talk you through aftercare, including keeping the area clean and avoiding excessive heat or pressure while it settles.
Anti-Wrinkle Injections vs Dermal Fillers: The Main Differences
Here’s a straightforward side-by-side comparison to help make sense of the two:
| Feature | Anti-Wrinkle Injections | Dermal Fillers |
| Purpose | Relax muscles to reduce expression lines | Add volume and restore facial structure |
| Main ingredient | Botulinum toxin | Hyaluronic acid (typically) |
| Best for | Dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement | Volume loss and static lines |
| Common areas | Forehead, frown lines, crow’s feet | Lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds, jawline, chin |
| Onset of results | 3–14 days | Immediate |
| Longevity | 3–4 months | 6–18 months |
| Downtime | Minimal, no visible marks | Possible mild swelling or bruising |
| Maintenance | Regular top-ups every few months | Less frequent, depends on area |
| Reversibility | Wears off naturally | Can often be dissolved with an enzyme |
Which Treatment Is Better for Different Concerns?
Forehead lines: These are almost always caused by repeated muscle movement, so anti-wrinkle injections tend to be the go-to option.
Crow’s feet: Same story — these fine lines around the eyes respond well to muscle relaxation rather than volume.
Frown lines: The vertical lines between the brows are a classic anti-wrinkle injection area, often producing a noticeably softer, more approachable expression.
Thin lips: This is a filler job. Lip filler adds shape, definition, and volume that muscle-relaxing treatments simply can’t provide.
Hollow cheeks: Cheek filler restores lost volume and can lift and contour the mid-face for a more youthful appearance.
Nasolabial folds (the lines running from nose to mouth): These are usually a mix of volume loss and skin laxity, so filler is generally more effective than muscle relaxation here.
Marionette lines (running from the mouth to the chin): Filler can soften these by supporting the area and restoring structure.
Jawline definition: Filler along the jaw can create a sharper, more sculpted profile, particularly for those noticing early jowling.
Chin enhancement: A small amount of filler can bring better balance to the profile, especially for those with a recessed chin.
Can You Combine Anti-Wrinkle Injections and Dermal Fillers?
Yes — and for many patients, this is exactly where the best results come from. Because the two treatments address different causes of facial ageing, combining them often achieves a more complete, natural-looking rejuvenation than either treatment alone. For example, anti-wrinkle injections might soften forehead lines and crow’s feet, while filler restores volume in the cheeks and smooths nasolabial folds.
The key is a personalised treatment plan built around your own facial anatomy, concerns, and goals, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. During a consultation at Mint Dental Clinic, we take the time to understand what’s bothering you most and build a plan that might involve one treatment, both, or a phased approach over time.
Which Treatment Lasts Longer?
In general, dermal fillers last considerably longer than anti-wrinkle injections. While anti-wrinkle injections typically need topping up every three to four months, fillers can last anywhere from six months to well over a year, depending on the product used, the area treated, and your individual metabolism. That said, longevity isn’t necessarily the deciding factor — some patients prefer the more temporary, adjustable nature of anti-wrinkle injections, while others like the longer-lasting structure that filler provides.
Are These Treatments Safe?
Both treatments have a well-established safety record when carried out by a suitably qualified and experienced practitioner following a thorough consultation. That consultation matters — it’s where any relevant medical history is discussed, suitability is assessed, and expectations are set honestly.
As with any injectable treatment, there are possible side effects to be aware of. These can include temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, or bruising at the injection site. Less commonly, complications such as infection, lumps, or asymmetry can occur, which is why aftercare guidance and choosing an experienced, appropriately trained practitioner both matter enormously. We’re always honest with patients about what to expect, and we’d never recommend a treatment we didn’t think was right for you.
How Much Do Anti-Wrinkle Injections and Dermal Fillers Cost?
Pricing varies depending on a number of factors: the treatment area, the amount of product needed, the complexity of the treatment plan, and the experience of the practitioner. Combination treatments involving both anti-wrinkle injections and filler will naturally cost more than a single-area treatment. The best way to get an accurate idea of cost for your specific goals is through a consultation, where we can talk through what you’re hoping to achieve and put together a plan with transparent pricing.
Choosing the Right Facial Aesthetic Treatment
There’s no universally “right” answer — the best treatment depends entirely on you. A few things worth thinking through before your consultation:
Your main concern: Is it expression lines, volume loss, or both?
Your age and skin condition: Younger patients may only need subtle, preventative treatment, while more mature skin may benefit from a combined approach.
Your facial anatomy: Everyone’s face is different, and what works beautifully for one person may not suit another.
Your desired outcome: Subtle and natural, or a more noticeable change?
Your budget and how often you’re happy to have top-ups.
A proper consultation is really the only way to get all of this right. It’s your chance to ask questions, share your goals, and get honest, professional advice — not a hard sell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lasts longer, anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers generally last longer, ranging from six months to around eighteen months depending on the area and product used. Anti-wrinkle injections typically last three to four months before muscle movement gradually returns and a top-up is needed.
Which is more painful, anti-wrinkle injections or fillers?
Both use very fine needles and are generally well tolerated. Fillers can feel slightly more uncomfortable in sensitive areas like the lips, though topical numbing cream is often used to keep patients comfortable throughout.
Can dermal fillers be dissolved if I don’t like the result?
Yes, most hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which breaks the filler down. This offers useful reassurance, as results aren’t permanent if you change your mind.
Can anti-wrinkle injections and fillers be done together?
Yes, many patients combine both treatments in the same appointment or across a phased treatment plan, addressing expression lines and volume loss for a more complete, natural-looking result.
Are the results immediate?
Filler results are visible straight away, though some swelling may settle over a week or two. Anti-wrinkle injections take longer to show, usually starting within three to five days and reaching full effect after around two weeks.
Who shouldn’t have these treatments?
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have certain neuromuscular conditions, active skin infections in the treatment area, or known allergies to the ingredients used are generally advised against treatment. A consultation will always assess individual suitability.
What age should I start considering these treatments?
There’s no fixed age. Some people start in their late twenties or early thirties as a preventative measure, while others wait until lines or volume loss become more noticeable, often in their forties or fifties. It’s a personal decision.
How often will I need treatment?
Anti-wrinkle injections generally need topping up every three to four months. Fillers last longer, so maintenance appointments are typically needed every six to eighteen months depending on the area treated.
Are these treatments reversible?
Anti-wrinkle injections naturally wear off over time as muscle function returns. Most hyaluronic acid fillers can also be actively dissolved if needed, making both treatments considerably more flexible than surgical alternatives.
How should I prepare for treatment?
It’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol, blood-thinning medication (where medically appropriate), and intense exercise for 24 hours beforehand to reduce the risk of bruising. Your practitioner will talk you through anything specific ahead of your appointment.
Book Your Facial Aesthetics Consultation at Mint Dental Clinic
Whether you’re drawn to the muscle-softening effect of anti-wrinkle injections, the volume-restoring power of dermal fillers, or a thoughtful combination of both, the most important step is a proper consultation with an experienced practitioner. At Mint Dental Clinic, we take a patient-first approach — listening to your concerns, explaining your options honestly, and building a plan around natural-looking, confidence-boosting results.
If you’re based in or around Elephant and Castle and curious about facial aesthetic treatments, we’d love to talk it through with you. Get in touch today to book your consultation.
