Anti-wrinkle treatment for men

Anti-wrinkle treatment isn't only something women ask about. More and more men are coming in with questions about frown lines, forehead lines or crow's feet. Many want to look less tired or stressed rather than look different. That's a goal anti-wrinkle treatment can often help with when it's planned carefully.

Why men's treatment is different

Male and female faces tend to differ in a few important ways. A good practitioner takes these into account rather than using the same plan for everyone.

Stronger muscles

Men often have larger, stronger facial muscles. This can mean a different amount of product is needed to soften lines. The right dose is something your prescriber will decide after watching how your face moves.

Brow shape

Men usually have a flatter, lower brow while women's brows often have more of an arch. Treatment for men is planned to keep the brow straight and natural. An arched or lifted brow can look out of place on a male face, so this needs care.

Skin

Men's skin is generally thicker and oilier. Some lines are also deeper because many men come in later, after years of strong movement. Deep etched lines may soften without vanishing completely.

Popular areas for men

• Frown lines between the eyebrows, which can make you look cross or worried
• Forehead lines
• Crow's feet at the sides of the eyes
• The masseter muscle, for jaw clenching or teeth grinding

Keeping it natural

Most men want results that nobody notices. The aim is for colleagues and friends to think you look well, not that you've had something done. A conservative approach helps with this. Movement is softened rather than stopped completely so your face still looks expressive.

The effect usually starts to show after a few days and builds to its full result at around two weeks. That's when you'll come back for your review appointment so your result can be checked. For most people it lasts around three to four months.

Side effects and aftercare

Side effects are usually mild. Some men notice small red bumps or tiny bruises at the injection points. A mild headache can happen too. Less commonly, a temporary heavy brow can occur. After treatment it's best to avoid strenuous exercise for around 24 hours. Try not to rub or massage the treated areas either.

Getting started

Treatment is only ever given after a face-to-face consultation with a prescriber. Your medical history is checked and you'll have time to ask questions. It helps to mention any medicines you take and any conditions affecting your muscles or nerves. There's no pressure to go ahead. Plenty of men come in simply to find out more and decide later.

If you're curious but not sure where to start, Lucy offers a free 15-minute consultation in Addlestone. It's a relaxed chat about what's realistic for you.