Wrinkle-relaxing injections

Wrinkle-relaxing injections for frown lines and forehead lines.

No referral needed · at ActivMD Derm Spa, next door to our clinic

Tired of wrinkles? Concerned about the first signs of aging? It’s never too late. At Rao Dermatology, we offer safe and effective neuromodulator cosmetic injections in Edmonton.

Neuromodulators use a chemical called botulinum toxin type A, which is injected into the muscles. It reduces the repeated muscle contractions from years of frowning and squinting, so you will begin to notice a visible smoothing of the creases around your eyes and a softening of the lines on your forehead.

First results3 to 4 days

Peak effect2 weeks

LastsAbout 4 months

Treatment timeA few minutes

How neuromodulators help wrinkles

Aging has a way of creeping up on us. It starts with faint smile creases, forehead lines or crinkles at the corners of your eyes. Those wrinkles are the result of smiling, frowning, laughing and squinting over the years, though smoking, sun damage, dehydration and some medications can cause wrinkles as well.

We can help smooth those lines out, for both men and women, by addressing the root of the problem: your facial muscles. By injecting neuromodulators (botulinum toxin type A) beneath the surface of your skin, we reduce the muscle contractions in your face, smoothing creases and softening lines to help bring back your youthful skin.

Beyond cosmetic treatment

While neuromodulators are best known for cosmetic facial enhancement, they also play an important role in several non-cosmetic applications, including the treatment of pain disorders.

Fewer migraine days

A neuromodulator is a prescription medicine that is injected to prevent headaches in adults with chronic migraines. It prevents up to 9 headache days a month when your doctor injects it every 3 months.

Less underarm sweating

Neuromodulators treat the symptoms of severe underarm sweating when other options do not work well. The treatment blocks the chemical signals from the nerves that stimulate the sweat glands, resulting in less sweating.

Frequently asked questions

New clients often ask us the same questions about neuromodulator treatments. If you have concerns that aren’t addressed here, please feel free to contact us.

Are neuromodulator injections painful?

Generally, patients feel a simple pinch, similar to injections from a family physician. Some people experience tenderness around the injected area. If you anticipate discomfort, let your dermatologist know; they may recommend a numbing cream or ice for a soothing effect.

What can I expect during my treatment?

Patients usually experience very little discomfort, but we can prep the areas with ice or anesthetic cream if you are concerned about pain. Using a very fine needle, Dr. Rao makes quick injections into the targeted muscles. After your appointment, you may return to work and other regular activities immediately, although we suggest you avoid pressing on the treated areas, which may be a little sensitive at the injection sites.

How long does a treatment take?

Neuromodulator injections take only a few minutes and do not require anesthesia. You can squeeze a session into your lunch break and still have time to eat.

How soon will I see results?

The average person with moderate to severe wrinkles will see visible results three or four days after treatment. The effect gradually improves until it peaks at two weeks, when your skin is at its best. It wears off over a period of four months, and another treatment will then be needed.

Will I still be able to make facial expressions?

Although you will see visible results, a neuromodulator treatment will not radically change your facial appearance or make it look like you have had “work done.” The muscle activity that causes wrinkles is temporarily reduced, but you will still be able to frown or look surprised.

What happens if I don’t continue treatment?

If you don’t continue treatment, your symptoms, whether lines and wrinkles, migraines or excessive sweating, will gradually return.

Do neuromodulators and dermal fillers do the same thing?

Both are injectable treatments used to treat signs of aging, but they work in different ways. Dermal fillers such as JUVÉDERM® fill in wrinkles and folds from within the skin, providing instant results. Neuromodulators smooth out wrinkles caused by facial muscle contractions, called dynamic wrinkles, and can take up to 6 weeks to reach full effectiveness.

Are neuromodulators an option for men?

Both men and women can try our neuromodulator treatments. Men are increasingly concerned about skin care and the appearance of their skin, and neuromodulators are no exception.

What does treatment cost?

Neuromodulators aren’t just for the rich and famous. They are relatively affordable, and for migraine and excessive sweating patients, most health benefit plans cover part of the cost. Exact costs depend on your individual treatment plan, and we’ll advise you of the costs for your treatment at your consultation.

Am I a good candidate?

Your health and well-being are our priority and the deciding factor for receiving neuromodulator injections. We encourage our clients to consult with a physician before treatment.

Are neuromodulators safe?

Yes. Neuromodulators have been approved for cosmetic use in Canada since 2001 and are safe when administered by a knowledgeable, experienced practitioner.