Anti-wrinkle injections use botulinum toxin type A — a purified protein produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria — to temporarily interrupt nerve signals in targeted facial muscles. Specifically, the protein reduces the release of acetylcholine, the chemical messenger responsible for muscle contraction.
Facial lines are caused by years of repeated muscle movement: squinting, frowning, smiling. By gently reducing activity in these muscles, existing lines soften and the formation of deeper, static creases is slowed.
The effect is always temporary. A natural process called re-innervation occurs after 3–4 months, at which point the muscle returns to full function and retreatment can be considered.
