It’s often said that your physical appearance can have a meaningful impact on your life opportunities and experiences. And with the rising popularity of dating apps, social media, FaceTime, and other technologies, our faces have been put on display now more than ever. This is what makes both men and women turn to cosmetic dermatology to try and rejuvenate their skin, hoping to enhance their overall appearance.
Botox is one such procedure that licensed medical professionals and board-certified dermatologists like My Botox LA Med Spa perform quite often. If you are considering getting botox, you may be wondering how long the cosmetic effects last.
So, here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know about Botox.
How Long Does the Botox Effect Last?
According to research, the effects of Botox can last for about three to six months, with the results beginning to wear off after four months or so. However, like any other treatment, the longevity of the results will differ from one patient to another. Several reasons influence how long the effects of Botox last, and they include:
Your Metabolism
Our bodies are different in every way, including how they process hyaluronic acid fillers and neurotoxins. And individuals with a fast metabolism will process Botox much faster than others. Your metabolic rate directly correlates to your level of exercise and muscle mass. Thus, the more fit you are, the faster your metabolic rate.
This is probably one of the reasons why men go for more Botox injections than women. However, it’s important to note that research hasn’t been able to establish why some people metabolize Botox faster than others.
The Depth and Size of Your Wrinkles
The areas Botox is typically injected include your forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes. In general, the finer the wrinkles, the faster the Botox results. So, if the depth and size of your wrinkles are deep, then the effects of your Botox won’t last long.
The Quality of the Botox
Botox is sensitive to excessive agitation, heat, and time, so it should be kept refrigerated and fresh. Ensure that you go to a licensed medical professional for your Botox procedures, as these professionals take care of how they store their Botox.
The Accuracy and Skill of the Injector
For Botox to work, it has to be injected in the area with the most wrinkles. However, the injector should target the muscles with precise accuracy for the results to last, as this guarantees maximum benefit around a particular area. Also, the person injecting the Botox should know how much filler to use and the appropriate space between each injection.
The Frequency of Your Botox Treatments
Another factor that affects the durability of the Botox results is the frequency of your Botox injections. The more frequently you have a Botox injection, the longer the results will last. Most doctors recommend their clients to come for injections every two to three months for the results to last for over a year.
The Area You Treat
As mentioned earlier, Botox is injected between the eyebrows and the forehead, which will typically last longer than when injected into other parts of the body.
So, how do you ensure that the results of your Botox treatment last beyond three to four months?
Wear Sunscreen
Start by wearing your sunscreen every day, and ensure that you apply it to your face. The sun’s rays can age and damage your skin. By wearing sunscreen, you not only protect your skin and face; but also prevent it from forming new wrinkles.
Stay Hydrated
Water keeps your body refreshed and hydrated, which helps maintain your skin’s elasticity. Drinking large amounts of water protects your skin and face from forming soft lines and wrinkles.
Avoid Smoking
If you are a smoker, you might want to consider quitting smoking, especially if you want your Botox results to last. Smoking ages your skin and increases the number of wrinkles on your face. It also makes the skin appear much thinner.
Moisturize
Another way you can increase how long the effects of Botox last on your skin is by moisturizing. You can ask your dermatologist or doctor for a moisturizer that can work for your skin type. You can also use cream, gels, lotions, and serums made of oils, water, and other ingredients to keep your skin thoroughly moisturized.
Once you start noticing that your wrinkles are deepening and muscle movement is returning, it might be time to refresh your Botox.
