5 Factors That Affect How Long Botox Lasts

When it comes to smoothing out wrinkles and restoring a more youthful appearance, botulinum toxin or Botox is usually the first solution that comes to mind. And it is easy to understand why. Apart from having a high satisfaction rate from patients, Botox is also FDA-approved for reducing the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles. 

Botulinum toxin works by blocking the signal from a nerve to a muscle to prevent the muscle from contracting. This leads to a smooth or reduced appearance of wrinkles. The effects can be significant, but it is also important to remember that the results don’t last forever. They will wear off and the treated area will return to its original state.

The results of Botox vary from patient to patient, but the common duration is between 3 and 6 months. There are also a number of factors that can affect how the results of treatment will last. Continue reading to learn more.

1. Age

Older patients, in most cases, will notice a shorter duration of results than younger ones. The quality of the skin plays a part. Less collagen and elasticity, as well as prominent or deeper lines (which are common in older patients) translate to a faster reappearance of lines and wrinkles.  

2. Dosage

Longer results are expected with large doses of Botox than a lesser amount. This is also why it is common for patients to notice longer effects with multiple Botox injections. Many providers or aesthetic doctors, however, inject a more conservative amount among first-timers. The dosage may be increased over time, as the injector learns more about the amount of botulinum toxin the patient can tolerate. 

3. Treatment area

The effects of Botox and other neuromodulators tend to wear off quickly in areas or muscles that are used frequently. Injections around the eyes or crow’s feet fade faster due to the constant movement or blinking of the eyes throughout the day. The same is also true for Botox injections in larger or stronger facial muscles.

4. Metabolism

Your metabolism, as well as your level of physical activity, greatly affects the result of Botox. Those with high metabolism like athletes or extremely fit patients may notice a shorter period of effects. This is because their bodies metabolize or break down the botulinum toxin faster than patients with an inactive lifestyle. 

5. Frequency of treatments

It is common for patients to experience better or longer Botox results after undergoing multiple injections. A second or third session may also result in a better response to the treatment and a longer duration of results. Your provider or aesthetic doctor will let you know how frequently you can receive Botox injections safely.

Take note: Repeat injections should not be performed sooner than three months. Doing so may cause you to develop an immune response to the treatment or reduce the effectiveness of Botox. When this happens, the injections may provide extremely brief results or no improvements at all. 

How soon do results show up?

The effects of Botox do not appear instantly. You may need to wait for at least two weeks to see the full effects of the treatment. Initial improvements can be seen 4 to 5 days after the treatment. You will then be able to enjoy the maximum results 14 days post-injection.

Once the effects wear off, touch-up treatments are usually considered. These don’t just smooth out lines and wrinkles, but also deliver better results that are likely to last longer. If you, however, decide to stop getting injections, it is not true that your face will become more wrinkly. The injected area will just go back to its pre-Botox state. 

Getting Botox and other injectables right

Be sure to only trust a skilled injector or aesthetic doctor with a conservative approach in administering the treatment. Be reminded that the correct dosage, the doctor’s eye for detail, and proper technique are essential if you want natural results. Complications are also unlikely if the injector is trained and experienced.  

You should also get the treatment in a clinic setting instead of beauty salons or spas. In addition, be wary of those who offer extremely cheap injections and suggest administering the treatment in a private setting. Read our previous blog to learn the things you need to know when getting Botox for the first time. 

Are you considering Botox to reduce the appearance of your facial wrinkles? Get in touch with us today. Contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore and schedule a consultation with our Harvard-trained aesthetic doctor, Dr. Sylvia Ramirez, to find out if Botox is right for you.