WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ANTI-WRINKLE INJECTIONS AND FILLERS?
3–4 min read
Image credit: MARBL Editorial
Injectables are booming. But what's the difference between them?
Anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers are two of the most popular treatments in medical aesthetics, but they work in very different ways.
If you're new to injectables or not sure where to start, here's a simple breakdown of what each treatment does, how long it lasts, and how to know which one is right for you.
WHAT DO ANTI-WRINKLE INJECTIONS DO?
Anti-wrinkle injections work by relaxing the muscles that cause expression lines — like frowning, squinting, or raising your eyebrows.
They don't add volume or change the shape of your face. Instead, they reduce movement in specific areas, helping your skin look smoother and more rested.
- Most commonly used for: Forehead lines, frown lines, crow's feet
- How it works: Temporarily blocks signals from nerves to muscles
- Result: Softens dynamic wrinkles (those caused by movement)
- How long it lasts: Typically 3–6 months
WHAT DO DERMAL FILLERS DO?
Fillers are used to add or restore volume in the face. They're often made from hyaluronic acid, a substance found naturally in the body.
They can be used to shape, define, or smooth — especially in areas that lose fullness over time.
- Most commonly used for: Cheeks, lips, jawline, smile lines
- How it works: Adds volume and hydration to targeted areas
- Result: Enhances structure and reduces deep-set lines
- How long it lasts: Typically 6–18 months, depending on the area and product
HOW TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE
Anti-wrinkle injections:
- Soften lines caused by facial movement
- Best for forehead, frown lines, and crow's feet
- Help prevent new lines from forming over time
- Results last 3–6 months
Dermal fillers:
- Add or replace volume in the face
- Best for cheeks, lips, jawlines, and deeper folds
- Enhance structure and definition
- Results last 6–18 months
CAN YOU HAVE BOTH?
Yes — and many people do.
Anti-wrinkle injections and fillers are often used together to treat different parts of the face. For example, you might soften forehead lines with anti-wrinkle injections, while using filler to contour your cheeks or jawline.
Together, they can deliver a balanced, natural-looking result.
WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU START WITH?
It depends on what you're noticing:
- Lines that appear when you frown or smile? → Anti-wrinkle injections
- Loss of volume or facial definition? → Dermal fillers
Still unsure? That's exactly what consultations are for. A qualified practitioner will assess your face and recommend the best option based on your goals.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Injectables can deliver subtle, confidence-boosting results — but only when done by the right hands.
Knowing the difference between anti-wrinkle injections and fillers is the first step. The next step is booking with someone qualified who listens to what you actually want.