It’s one of the first questions we hear at Derma Lab Clinic, and it’s a sensible one. Aesthetic injectables are an investment in how you look and feel, so naturally, you want to know how long the results will hold before you book your appointment.
The honest answer is that it depends on the treatment, on your skin, and on you, but there are clear, reliable timeframes for each type of injectable we offer. Here’s what you can genuinely expect.
First, a quick word on what “injectables” actually means
“Injectables” is a broad term, and the longevity question can’t be answered properly without separating the different treatments, because they work in completely different ways.
At our doctor-led clinic in Marylebone, we focus on injectables that refresh and enhance your natural appearance rather than dramatically alter it.
That mainly means anti-wrinkle injections and skin-boosting treatments such as Profhilo and Polynucleotides. Each has its own rhythm, so let’s take them in turn.
Learn more about the injectables we offer!
Anti-wrinkle injections: typically 3 to 4 months
Anti-wrinkle injections use botulinum toxin to gently relax the specific muscles responsible for expression lines, such as forehead lines, frown lines between the brows, and crow’s feet around the eyes. By softening the muscle movement that creates these creases, the skin above has a chance to smooth out.
For most people, results begin to appear within a few days and settle fully at around the two-week mark. From there, you can expect your results to last between three and four months.
There’s an encouraging pattern here, though. Many clients find that, with regular, well-spaced treatments over time, their results can last a little longer because the treated muscles become accustomed to relaxing, and habitual creasing softens. It’s one of the reasons we encourage a consistent, considered approach rather than occasional one-offs.
Profhilo: results that build, then last around 6 months
Profhilo is one of our most popular treatments, and it works quite differently from anti-wrinkle injections. Rather than relaxing muscles or adding volume, Profhilo is a bio-remodelling treatment containing one of the highest concentrations of pure hyaluronic acid available in aesthetic medicine.
Once injected, it spreads evenly beneath the skin like a deeply hydrating moisturiser, stimulating your own collagen and elastin production to improve tone, texture, and elasticity from within.
Because Profhilo works by prompting your skin to renew itself, the protocol matters. The standard course consists of two treatment sessions spaced about 4 weeks apart, and this initial pairing lays the foundation for lasting results. Once that course is complete, you can generally expect the benefits to last around six months.
To maintain that fresh, hydrated glow, we usually recommend a maintenance session every 2 years or so. As with anti-wrinkle injections, consistency tends to pay off; the cumulative effect on skin quality often becomes more noticeable the longer you stick to your treatment plan.
Polynucleotides: a regenerative approach over a course
Polynucleotides are an advanced injectable treatment that uses natural DNA fragments to promote cell repair, boost hydration, and improve overall skin quality. They’re particularly valued for addressing concerns such as acne scarring, pigmentation, and general rejuvenation, working at a deeper, regenerative level rather than simply sitting on the surface.
Like Profhilo, Polynucleotides are most effective as a course of treatments rather than a single session, allowing the regenerative effects to build progressively. The improvements in skin quality can be long-lasting, though the exact duration varies from person to person, depending on the concern being treated and the individual’s skin response.
Because this treatment is so tailored, the best way to understand your likely timeline is through a consultation, where we can assess your skin and recommend an appropriate plan.
Why results vary from person to person
You’ll have noticed the recurring theme: longevity isn’t a fixed number, because several personal factors influence how long any injectable lasts.
These include your age, your metabolism (a faster metabolism can break down some products more quickly), your skin quality and lifestyle, how active the treated muscles are, and how consistently you follow your recommended treatment plan.
Sun exposure, smoking, stress, and general skin health all play their part, too. None of this should put you off; it explains why the person sitting next to you in the waiting room might be on a slightly different schedule. The most reliable way to make your results last is to look after your skin between treatments and to follow the aftercare guidance we provide.
How to make your injectables last longer
A few straightforward habits genuinely help. Protect your skin with daily SPF, stay well hydrated, maintain a good skincare routine, and avoid excessive sun and alcohol where you can. Most importantly, stick to the maintenance schedule your practitioner recommends rather than waiting until results have completely worn off.
Topping up at the right moment keeps you looking consistently refreshed and often makes each treatment more effective over time.
The most accurate answer comes from a consultation
While these timeframes give you a reliable guide, the best estimate of your results comes from a face-to-face assessment. Everyone’s skin, goals, and anatomy are different, which is exactly why our approach at Derma Lab Clinic is doctor-led and fully personalised.
Founded by medical director Dr George Bethimoutis, an experienced dermatologist and aesthetics doctor, our clinic is built around safe, subtle, results-driven treatments that enhance your natural appearance with minimal downtime.
During your consultation, we’ll talk through your concerns, recommend the most suitable treatment, and give you a clear, realistic picture of how long you can expect your results to last, along with a maintenance plan to keep them looking their best.
If you’re considering aesthetic injectables and want expert guidance you can trust, we’d love to help. Get in touch with Derma Lab Clinic in Marylebone to book your consultation and take the first step towards refreshed, healthy, natural-looking skin.
