Botox - how long does it take to work?

Professor Ash Mosahebi

The onset of Botox's action is typically observed within 1 to 4 days post-injection, with the peak effect commonly materializing by the two-week mark.

Individual responses may vary, influenced by a constellation of factors including anatomical, physiological, and lifestyle elements that play a role in both the immediacy and the intensity of the treatment's outcome.

How does it feel when it starts working?

As Botox takes effect, you might start to feel a subtle change in your facial sensations. The muscles that were treated will begin to relax, causing dynamic wrinkles to gradually soften. This often comes with a slight feeling of tightness or firmness in the area. During this time, you’ll also notice that fine lines and expression lines begin to fade, signalling the start of Botox 's effects on your appearance.

Factors that can affect the results

Delving into the nuances that affect Botox's performance:

Age  

As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin, leading to less resilience and a tendency for wrinkles to become "etched" into the skin. Botox may work more promptly on younger, more elastic skin, but it also offers significant benefits for mature skin by reducing the depth of established wrinkles.

Gender

Men's typically denser muscle fibres may require more units of Botox to achieve comparable effects to those in women, potentially altering the onset and duration of the cosmetic benefits.

Muscle mass

Individuals with a robust musculature may find that Botox takes slightly longer to exhibit its full potential, or that they may need a higher dosage to see effective results, due to the greater volume and density of their muscle tissue.

The elasticity of your skin

Skin that retains good elasticity tends to respond more favourably to Botox, with results that can appear more rapidly and with a more pronounced smoothing of the skin's surface.

Types of Botox

The market presents a range of neuromodulators, including various Botox formulations and alternatives. Each has its profile of action onset, with some designed to offer a more gradual improvement and others tailored for a more immediate effect.

Volume of the injection

The amount of Botox injected plays a pivotal role in both the aesthetic outcome and the longevity of the treatment. Strategic dosing, determined by an experienced practitioner, ensures optimal balance between natural-looking results and effective muscle relaxation.

How can I improve the durability of the results?

Complementing Botox injections with the following practices can help prolong its effects:

Avoid sun damage

Ultraviolet exposure can degrade collagen and accelerate the ageing process, potentially shortening the duration of Botox's effects. Regular application of a high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen and the use of physical barriers such as hats and sunglasses are effective strategies to protect the skin and extend the youthful appearance conferred by Botox.

Don't exercise too hard

Intense physical activity can speed up metabolism, which may, in turn, hasten the processing of Botox. Opting for moderate exercise routines post-treatment can help maintain the results for a longer period.

Avoid stress

High stress levels can lead to increased facial tension and the formation of stress-related wrinkles. By adopting stress-reduction practices such as yoga, mindfulness, or other relaxation techniques, the aesthetic benefits of Botox can be significantly prolonged.

Take zinc supplement daily

Emerging research suggests that zinc supplements, particularly in conjunction with the enzyme phytase, may enhance Botox's action. Before adding supplements to your regimen, a discussion with your healthcare provider is essential to ensure compatibility with your overall health profile.

Keep your skin moisturized

Hydrated skin provides a better foundation for Botox, facilitating smoother injection sites and potentially improving the uptake of the neuromodulator. Consistent use of quality moisturizers helps maintain skin integrity, supporting the dermal structure around the injection sites and possibly contributing to more enduring results.

Adoreal's comprehensive Botox care

At Adoreal, we provide expertly administered Botox treatments and equip you with the knowledge and support for aftercare that maximises your investment. Our practitioners are dedicated to delivering a service that doesn't just end with the treatment but continues with personalised aftercare plans and tips to make your Botox experience and results exceptional.

Reach out to Adoreal for an all-inclusive approach to your Botox treatment, from initial consultation to post-treatment care. Let us help you maintain the rejuvenating effects for as long as possible with our expert advice and support.

Book your Botox appointment with Adoreal