Those two little lines between your brows have a nickname: the elevens. They are one of the most common reasons people come to see us, and one of the most misunderstood. In this article Bina, one of the nurses at 65Beauty, explains where frown lines come from, how anti-wrinkle treatment works and what to expect if you are thinking about it.
Bina appears in real video filmed at our clinic; her voice in this video is AI-generated and lip-synced, made with her consent. The treatment footage is real and filmed with consent.
What are frown lines?
Frown lines are the vertical creases that form between the eyebrows. Because there are often two of them, side by side, they are nicknamed the elevens. Some people have one deeper line, others have a few finer ones. They tend to show most when you frown, concentrate or squint, and over time they can start to linger even when your face is relaxed.
Why do they appear?
As Bina explains in the video, frown lines come from a group of muscles between the brows that work hard all day. Every time you concentrate on a screen, squint into the sun or read your phone, those muscles pull the skin together. Do that thousands of times a year and the creases begin to set in.
Other things play a part too. Skin naturally loses some of its firmness and elasticity with age, and sun exposure, smoking and lack of sleep can all affect how skin looks. Frown lines are completely normal. Treating them is a personal choice, never a necessity.
How anti-wrinkle treatment works
An anti-wrinkle treatment is a prescription treatment injected in very small amounts into specific muscles. It relaxes the muscle so it cannot pull as strongly, which means the skin above it creases less and the lines can soften.
The aim at 65Beauty is never to change who you are. As Bina puts it, the lines soften and you still look like you. A good result should look rested and natural, with your face still able to move and express itself.
What happens at your appointment
- Consultation. Every treatment starts here. We talk about what bothers you, go through your medical history and check whether treatment is suitable. If it is not right for you, we will say so.
- Assessment. Your practitioner watches how your face moves when you frown and relax, so treatment can be planned around your own muscles.
- Preparation. Your skin is cleansed and the treatment points are planned.
- Treatment. A few small injections with a very fine needle. Most people describe a brief pinch.
- Aftercare. We explain what to do and what to avoid for the rest of the day, and when to get in touch if you have any concerns.
What to expect afterwards
Anti-wrinkle treatment does not work instantly. Changes usually build gradually over the following days, and results vary from person to person. Some people notice small, temporary pinprick marks or slight redness where the injections were placed, which usually settles quickly. Like any medical treatment, there can be side effects, and your practitioner will talk you through these during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
Frequently asked questions
Will I still be able to frown?
The aim is to soften the lines, not to stop all expression. How much movement remains depends on your treatment plan, which we agree with you at your consultation.
Does it hurt?
Most people find it very tolerable. The needle is very fine and the injections are over quickly.
How long does it last?
It varies from person to person. The effect wears off gradually over time, and we will discuss what is typical during your consultation.
Is it suitable for everyone?
No. Anti-wrinkle treatment is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people with certain medical conditions or taking certain medicines. This is exactly why we always start with a consultation.
Book a consultation
If those two little lines have been bothering you, our team at 39 Kings Road, Brentwood, can talk you through your options with no pressure to go ahead. 65Beauty is a nurse-led, CQC-registered clinic, and every treatment starts with a proper consultation. Book a consultation
Results vary. Treatments are for adults aged 18 and over and are subject to a consultation.
Results vary from person to person. Every treatment starts with a consultation with a registered clinician.