How long does Botox last?
Botox typically lasts three to four months. Results begin two to three days after treatment, peak at about two weeks, and fade gradually as the treated muscle regains movement. Duration varies with dose, the area treated, your metabolism and how expressive you are. Daxxify, a newer neuromodulator, lasts a median of six months.
Botox works by blocking the signal between a nerve and the muscle it controls. Over time the nerve sprouts new connections and the muscle gradually returns to full movement, which is why the effect is temporary. For most patients that means a visit every three to four months to stay smooth.
What changes the duration
- Dose. Under-dosing to save money usually means a shorter result. Correct dosing per muscle lasts longer and looks more natural.
- Area. The frown lines between the brows tend to hold longest. Crow's feet and the forehead, where muscles are thinner and very active, often fade a little sooner.
- You. Very expressive people, athletes with fast metabolisms and first-time patients sometimes see shorter duration. With regular treatment the muscles weaken slightly and results often last longer.
If you want fewer visits
Daxxify is a peptide-stabilized neuromodulator that lasted a median of six months in clinical trials. Dr. Darvish offers Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau and Daxxify at both our Brentwood and West Hollywood offices and will recommend the one that fits your face and schedule.
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More about botox & wrinkle relaxers
How much does Botox cost in Los Angeles?
In Los Angeles, Botox is usually priced per unit, and a typical treatment of the frown lines, forehead or crow's feet uses 10 to 30 units per area. Total cost depends on how many areas you treat and the dose your muscles need. Skinpeccable gives you an exact, all-in quote at a complimentary consultation, with no obligation to book. Read more
What is the difference between Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau?
All four are botulinum toxin type A and work the same way. Dysport spreads slightly more and may start a day sooner, which suits larger areas like the forehead. Xeomin has no accessory proteins, useful for patients who have developed resistance. Jeuveau was developed purely for cosmetic use and is often priced lower. Botox has the longest track record. Results and duration are similar. Read more
Does Botox hurt?
Botox injections cause only brief, mild discomfort, usually described as a small pinch that lasts a second. The needle is very fine and each injection takes a moment. No numbing is needed, though ice is available. The whole treatment takes about ten minutes and you can go straight back to your day. Read more
How many units of Botox do I need?
Typical Botox dosing is about 20 units for the frown lines between the brows, 10 to 20 units for the forehead, and 6 to 12 units per side for crow's feet, so a full upper face often uses 40 to 60 units. Men and patients with strong muscles need more. The right number is set by examining how your muscles move, not by a menu. Read more
Will Botox make me look frozen?
Not when it is dosed and placed correctly. A frozen look comes from over-treating the forehead or treating muscles that should keep moving. Skilled injectors relax the muscles that crease the skin while preserving the ones that give you expression. The goal is to look rested, not different. Read more
What age should you start Botox?
There is no right age. Most patients start between their late twenties and early forties, when expression lines begin to stay visible at rest. Starting earlier, sometimes called preventive Botox, can keep lines from etching in, but it is only worthwhile if you already have strong expression lines when you move. A consultation tells you whether it would help you yet. Read more
What should you not do after Botox?
For the first four hours after Botox, stay upright, do not rub or massage the treated area, and skip strenuous exercise, saunas and alcohol for the rest of the day. Avoid facials, massages and tight hats or headbands for 24 hours. Normal activities, makeup and washing your face gently are fine right away. Read more
Can Botox treat teeth grinding or slim a square jaw?
Yes. Botox injected into the masseter, the large chewing muscle at the angle of the jaw, relaxes it enough to reduce clenching and grinding and, over two to three months, slims a square or wide lower face. Chewing strength for food is preserved. Results last four to six months and tend to last longer with repeat treatment. Read more