Anti-Wrinkle Injections Side Effects: What’s Normal & When to Worry

Worried about side effects of anti-wrinkle treatment? You’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions we hear from first-time clients at our trusted aesthetic clinic in Woodford.

The truth is, most people experience only mild, short-term effects after anti-wrinkle injections — and knowing what to expect can take away a lot of the fear.

So let’s walk through it together: what’s normal, what’s rare, and when to check in with your practitioner.👉 For a complete overview, see our Ultimate Guide to Anti-Wrinkle Treatments.

What to Expect After Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Right after your treatment, it’s completely normal to notice:

• Redness at the injection site

• Mild swelling or puffiness

• Tiny bruises at the injection points

• A gentle tight or heavy feeling in the treated area

• A mild headache later that day

  
  

These are all standard anti-wrinkle injection side effects, and they usually fade within a few hours to a couple of days.

💬 Clients at our Woodford Essex clinic often ask: “Is swelling normal after anti-wrinkle injections?”Yes — and it usually resolves quickly with a little rest and proper care.

Want to know more about how these injectables work in your skin? Don’t miss our blog on The Science Behind Anti-Wrinkle Injections.

How Long Do Anti-Wrinkle Side Effects Last?

Here’s a quick guide to help you feel at ease:

Side Effect	How Long It Usually Lasts
Redness	A few hours
Mild swelling	1–2 days
Bruising	3–5 days (up to 7 for some people)
Headache	A few hours to 1 day
Tight/heavy feeling	Up to 7–10 days as muscles adjust

Still unsure? You can always reach out to us to double-check if what you're feeling is normal.

When to Worry After Anti-Wrinkle Treatment

Let’s talk about the rare cases — just so you feel informed.

👉 Contact your practitioner immediately if you experience:

• Severe or long-lasting pain

• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking

• Blurred or double vision

• Drooping of the eyelid or eyebrow (especially if it feels uneven)

• Rash, itching, or any signs of an allergic reaction

  
  

These are extremely uncommon, especially when your treatment is done by a qualified professional — but it’s always best to stay informed.

Anti-Wrinkle Aftercare Tips: Minimising Side Effects Naturally

Here’s how to take care of yourself after your injections:

✅ Avoid touching or rubbing the area

✅ Stay upright for 4–6 hours after treatment

✅ Skip intense workouts, saunas, or hot showers for 24 hours

✅ Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications before and after treatment

✅ Stick to gentle skincare and skip makeup around injection sites for the day

💡 Wondering how to reduce bruising after anti-wrinkle treatment?Apply a cool (not frozen) compress, rest with your head slightly elevated, and avoid pressure on the treated area.

Following these tips makes a big difference in comfort and results — especially for first-timers.👉 For more guidance, check out our full post: Anti-Wrinkle Injection Side Effects & Aftercare

FAQs – Side Effects of Anti-Wrinkle Treatment

What are the common side effects of anti-wrinkle injections?

Mild redness, swelling, and tiny bruises are normal and usually resolve quickly. Some clients also report a slight tightness or heavy sensation — particularly across the forehead — as the product begins to take effect.

How long do bruising or swelling last?

Swelling typically fades within 24–48 hours. Bruising, if it happens, may last 3–5 days. Using a cold compress and avoiding alcohol or blood-thinners before treatment can help reduce both.

Is it normal to feel tightness or heaviness?

Yes, especially in the forehead area. This sensation is temporary and eases as your facial muscles adapt over the first week.

When should I be concerned about my results?

Most effects are short-lived. But if you experience vision changes, severe pain, or facial drooping, contact your practitioner straight away. These are rare but important to rule out early.

Can I do anything to avoid or reduce side effects?

Absolutely. Following your aftercare instructions, avoiding alcohol and certain medications, and choosing a qualified clinic like ours in Woodford are key to safer, smoother results.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing some side effects after your treatment is totally normal — and they’re usually nothing to worry about.

Still, we believe in giving you all the information so you feel empowered, relaxed, and cared for.

At Time for You Aesthetics, we take pride in guiding clients across Essex through their first treatments with reassurance and transparency. Whether you're brand new or returning, we're here to answer every question and keep you feeling your best.

👉 Curious if anti-wrinkle is right for you?Explore our Anti-Wrinkle Injections service page to learn more about treatment options, or Book a consultation today — and let’s chat about what’s possible.