You love your refreshed, post-Botox® face! Now, how long do the results last (and how can you keep them)?

The effectiveness of Botox^® is unquestionable. Since it was first FDA-approved in the early 2000s, its popularity has grown to where it is now among the top nonsurgical cosmetic services, year in and year out. While its effectiveness and safety (when in a qualified provider’s hands) are not debated, some questions remain about how long the results from this injectable procedure last. Eden MedSpa in Charlotte, North Carolina, is happy to provide a few answers to some frequently asked questions about what to expect after the injections are over.

Does what I do immediately after my treatment matter?

Yes. Failure to follow any instructions for after-care provided by our team can affect your results. It can also increase your risk of Botox^® migrating to other sites. While serious side effects from Botox^® are extremely rare, they are typically associated with the formulation diffusing to other areas outside the treated muscles. This complication can also lead to Botox^® not working as intended in the targeted areas. Basically, Botox^® can migrate when blood flow is increased or pressure is placed on the treatment sites. For this reason, it’s generally advised to avoid strenuous exercise and heat (such as saunas and hot showers) for at least 24 hours. Also, keep your head upright immediately following treatment, and do not massage or mess with the injection sites.

When do most people see results?

Your frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead furrows should generally look softer and better after around two to five days. Full results can take up to 14 days. So, it’s not an instant gratification procedure (though pretty close to it). Due to how Botox^® works by inhibiting muscle activity responsible for expression lines, there is a “waiting period” as the active ingredient binds to the nerve cell receptors and ultimately relaxes the targeted muscles.

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How long do those results stick around?

On average, Allergan Aesthetics (which makes Botox^®) reports that the treatment’s effects begin to wear off after three to four months. Of course, results vary.

Why do results vary?

There is no other person quite like you. How your body metabolizes or processes Botox^® and other cosmetic products can differ considerably from how another person’s body may react to the introduction of these formulations. Your unique metabolic rate, age, muscle strength/activity, injection sites, and how you care for your skin over the long haul can all help or hinder results.

How should I care for my skin?

Sun protection is key. Also, many of the behaviors that contribute to your overall health contribute to skin health. So, be sure to drink plenty of water, avoid smoking and nicotine, and enjoy a diet rich in antioxidants. Eden MedSpa can also get you into a healthy routine of “touch-up” treatments to maintain the results from Botox^®. You may even find that results stick around longer as you get treated more often because the muscles are “re-trained” to reduce their activity.
Feel free to ask any other questions or questions specific to your situation during a consultation. To schedule yours, call our Charlotte, NC office at (980) 272-5085.