How Long Does Botox Last?

When you think of Botox, you probably think about all the stars' wrinkle-free faces as they walk down the red carpet at an awards show. Or maybe you see a celebrity that has undoubtedly gotten older but hasn't "aged a day" in their face. Since its FDA approval in 2002, Botox has become an increasingly popular cosmetic treatment for men and women all across the nation and the world. Even though you see it in celebrities, you would be surprised by how many people in your circle of friends have received this treatment themselves.

A Short History of Botox

Botox was initially created in the 1970s for medical purposes like eye spasms, neck and shoulder spasms, crossed eyes, and tremors that can occur after a stroke.

In the 1990s, Botox gained quick popularity because it showed the promise of softening deep wrinkles found on faces and was approved by the FDA in 2002 for treatment of wrinkles. Since then, it has become the number one treatment asked for at med spas and aestheticians offices around the world. In 2019 it was estimated that over 7.5 million people in the United States received a form of Botox.

What is Botox?

If you look in the mirror and see frown-lines, forehead lines, crow's feet, or other wrinkles, you might be thinking about getting Botox. But what is Botox exactly, and is it the right treatment for you?

Botox is the name given to the first injectable treatment that utilizes Botulinum toxin type A, a purified and natural protein. It is a neurotoxin and a neuromodulator, which in simpler terms means that it paralyzes the muscles by disrupting the nerve signal.

This treatment is performed by a doctor, physician's assistant, or nurse and can be done in the office or med spa, at your home, and more recently, at Botox parties. Yes, Botox parties exist and are popular among friend groups in the form of self-care get-togethers. These parties can also include massages and mani-pedis, and facials.

The Effects

Botox helps relieve the appearance of harsh lines called Dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement like smiling, laughing, frowning, squinting, and furrowing your brow. Botox can also help relieve the lines of Static wrinkles caused by loss of collagen and elasticity in the skin; however, it works best in conjunction with a hyaluronic acid filler.

The Treatment Process

Now that you understand the basics of Botox let's discuss the treatment process. When you visit your aesthetician's office to inquire about Botox, you will have an assessment and consultation to discuss your options and treatment plan. You will purchase "Units" that typically cost around 10-15 dollars per unit. An average treatment will cost about 250-400 dollars, depending on how much you get done. For example, if you have a deep wrinkle on your glabella or the smooth part of your forehead between your brows, it might take up to 20 units of Botox to get the desired result. Fortunately, the more you get Botox, the more your muscles weaken, and in turn, you will need fewer units to immobilize the muscles.

You will see results as early as 2 days but entirely within 5-7 days. Most professionals recommend waiting two weeks to ultimately see the results and decide if more treatments or touch-ups need to be done.

How Long Does it Last?

On average, your treatment will last around 4-6 months. If you are receiving Botox for the first time, you will most likely have results that last closer to 3-4 months. If you work out or use your facial muscles more than average, you might also see a lesser than average result time. Over time, you will see a softening of wrinkles because your muscles are no longer working in the area affected by Botox. Even though Botox is not an iron for your wrinkles, on some occasions, Botox can eliminate the fine lines or moderate wrinkles after so many treatments.

Where To Get Botox

To find a certified medical professional to assess and consult with you on the Botox treatment process, search "Botox near me" or "Med Spas near me" on your preferred search engine.

If you live in the Ft. Lauderdale, FL, or Plantation, FL areas, our staff at Royalty Care Med Spa can assess your interests and meet your needs. We now offer virtual consultations, and we can perform treatments on-site or come to you! If you are interested in receiving Botox or other injectable treatments, we will be happy to consult with you and explain our services.

It is imperative that you consult with your physician before you receive any treatment that involves the use of Botox or other neuromodulators. You want to be sure that you are receiving the Botox brand or other FDA-approved neurotoxin injectables and that it is being delivered in a safe, sterile, and approved environment.