How Long Does BOTOX® Last? By Stephen Dowell, DDS on November 19, 2020

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription strength injectable that targets facial lines and wrinkles, particularly those around the eyes, along the forehead, and between the eyebrows. Botox is a highly effective cosmetic treatment, but its results are temporary.

Individuals from Minerva, OH, Carrollton, OH, Dover, OH, and surrounding areas who are considering Botox treatment at Dowell Dental Group can learn in this article how Botox works and how long Botox results typically last.

How Does Botox Work?

Unlike most injectable cosmetic treatments that soften the appearance of wrinkles by filling in and smoothing out loose skin, Botox treatment actually addresses wrinkles at their source. Botox treats dynamic wrinkles, or those that form when the muscles contract. Botox works by preventing muscle contractions, essentially paralyzing targeted muscles temporarily so that lines, wrinkles, and creases do not form.

Botox Cosmetic contains a safe, diluted version of the botulinum toxin. When injected into the muscles, Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscles. This prevents muscle contractions that are responsible for many of the most common facial wrinkles, including forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines. 

Botox Results - How Long Do They Last?

The results of Botox treatment are apparent almost immediately, but it can take about one to two weeks for treatment to take full effect. Once in effect, Botox prevents the formation of targeted wrinkles to provide patients with a softer, more youthful appearance. It is important that patients have realistic expectations for the results of Botox treatment, and understand that its effects are temporary.

As Botox wears off, the muscles will start to contract, and lines and wrinkles will become visible again. The exact length of time that Botox results last can vary from one person to another. On average, patients can expect the effects of Botox treatment to last at least three months. Many find that Botox results last even longer, with numerous patients enjoying the effects of Botox treatment for up to six months.

Maintenance Treatment

Although the results of Botox treatment are not permanent, people can prolong Botox effects by scheduling maintenance appointments every three to six months, or as treatment results wear off. Botox treatment can safely be administered as needed, so patients can continue to enjoy smoother, softer looking skin. 

As Botox treatment is repeated, patients may even notice that the results of treatment start to last longer. Lines and wrinkles are likely to look softer over time because the muscles that cause wrinkles may start to shrink as they go unused. So while a patient may notice that the effects of an initial Botox treatment last just three months, as they continue to schedule maintenance appointments the effects of treatment are likely to extend.

Learn More

If you are interested in learning more about Botox treatment and its cosmetic effects, the team at Dowell Dental Group would be happy to answer any questions you may have. To get in touch, send us a message online at your earliest convenience, or call us at (330) 868-5001.