If you are not familiar with Botox, it is a temporary treatment that is ideal for treating and preventing wrinkles on the face. Even though Botox treatments are temporary, each treatment counts in keeping those fine lines and wrinkles at bay. It is important for individuals to know that one Botox treatment isn’t going to wipe away all the wrinkles. But instead, it is going to soften fine lines and wrinkles in areas such as the forehead, between the eyebrows (glabella), and around the eyes (crow’s feet). Botox being temporary isn’t a bad thing, especially for those who’ve ever had bad Botox or disliked the treatment in general. So exactly how long can you expect each Botox treatment to last? We are going to share all the things you need to know about Botox and how you can work it into your skin care routine.
What is Botox?
Botox is a brand name and was the first neurotoxin that was FDA-approved to treat wrinkles. There are several different brands such as Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin that are also FDA-approved to treat facial wrinkles, however Botox is the most popular.
Botox is a series of injections that work by partially blocking the impulses from the nerve to the facial muscles which results in the treated muscles relaxing and the skin smoothing itself out. It can help to completely soften lines that have formed deeper in the skin and show even when the muscle is relaxed.
Just How Temporary is Botox
Botox takes anywhere from 3-10 days to fully start working following treatment. With continuous improvement for up to 30 days and lasting on average for 3-4 months. If it is your first time getting Botox, it is not unusual to need a slight touch up at the 2 week mark as an experienced injector will want to be able to determine the correct treatment and amount that is best for you. A touch up is a slight tweak that typically involves 2-5 units. Once you begin going to someone regularly, touch ups are usually not needed.
If you are someone who is an active runner or exercises frequently, it may last anywhere from 2-3 months because it is being metabolized quicker. However, we always see those lucky few where it lasts 4-5 months. This number is different for everyone and varies from patient to patient.
Although we wish Botox lasted forever, it doesn’t. In some cases, it’s a good thing it is temporary because unfortunately, not all injectors are skilled and experienced. “Bad Botox” really is a thing, which is why it is crucial that you are going to a well credentialed injector who works out of a reputable facility. Bad Botox can look like an expressionless or “surprised” face, asymmetry, or drooping. Sometimes slight corrections can be made but, in most cases, individuals have to wait for these unfortunate mishaps to eventually wear off.
What Areas Can Be Treated with Botox?
Botox can be used in multiple areas of the face, but the most popular areas include the forehead, between the eyebrows and around the eyes. Botox isn’t just for those individuals with noticeable wrinkles, it is also used to prevent the development of these lines.
To maintain the best possible Botox results, treatment does need to be done consistently. Most first-time Botox users feel that treatment is needed at least every 3-4 months at first but with consistent use, treatment is not needed as often because the muscles being treated become weaker. Some first-timers or individuals are intimidated by the consistency of having to have Botox treatments, but they usually find even 2-3 times a year is an achievable schedule and find that the reward is well worth it.
Botox Memberships at Utah Facial Plastics
Utah Facial Plastics has some great membership options for patients to bank their money and also receive discounts all year long when receiving esthetic treatments. It allows for patients to save monthly instead of dropping large amounts of money at one visit. This makes it affordable for many all while prioritizing the treatments they want to receive. Visit our website to learn more about our Botox memberships and other esthetic treatments available with these plans.
For more information about Botox treatments near Salt Lake City and surrounding areas of Northern Utah, please contact us or book online with one of our experienced providers in Draper, Layton, or South Jordan/Gateway (coming soon) offices at (801)776-2220.