Do anti-wrinkle injections work? What a 2023 meta-analysis found

What question did the researchers ask?

Researchers compared randomised trials of approved botulinum toxin type A formulations for moderate-to-severe glabellar lines. Outcomes focused on investigator-rated improvement at maximum frown at around one month and treatment-related adverse events.

What did they actually find?

Every formulation in the network performed better than placebo. One newer formulation ranked highest for one- and two-point severity improvements, while the analysis did not find a significant difference between formulations in treatment-related adverse-event rates.

What should you keep in mind?

This evidence concerns frown lines and short-term trial outcomes. It cannot be transferred automatically to other facial areas, doses or an individual anatomy, and it does not remove the need for prescribing assessment and discussion of uncommon but important risks.

What does this mean for a Highfield consultation?

A pooled analysis of controlled studies; individual response, dose and adverse effects still vary. We consider that finding alongside independent guidance, your medical history, examination and priorities. It can support a better-informed decision, but it cannot promise a personal result or decide whether treatment is suitable.