How long does Botox last? Experts answer some FAQs

Botox is more popular than ever.

Botulinum toxin treatments are used for a variety of reasons, including to smooth wrinkles, treat sweating, migraines and other conditions.

Botox is a specific brand of neuromodulator, which are injections of botulinum toxin into a muscle that cause them to relax and smooth the appearance of the skin above, according to the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery.

Neurmodulator injections, which include Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau as well as Botox, accounted for more than 8.7 million procedures in 2022, according to the most recent report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. That's up from about five million in 2019.

While Botox treatments are on the rise, here's what experts want you to know before heading into a procedure yourself.

How long does Botox last?

Botox results usually last for 3 or 4 months, dermatologist Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky tells USA TODAY, though she notes it is "totally dependent" on the person.

What happens when Botox wears off?

"Contrary to popular belief, Botox doesn’t just stop working one day," Zubritsky notes. "After Botox is injected, it takes several weeks — around 5 to 6 — to reach peak efficacy," she adds. "After that time, the muscle activity slowly starts to return to baseline over the next few week to months."

What are the cons of Botox?

The most complications of Botox may include bruising or headaches, according to Zubritsky.

"Rarely, when injected incorrectly, Botox can cause feelings of heaviness, drooping of the eyebrow or other unwanted asymmetry depending on what areas were injected," Zubritsky adds.

Botox is "considered safe and effective for most people," Zubritsky says. She recommends those who are pregnant, allergic to Botox or have certain neuromuscular disorders refrain from use.

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