How Long Does Botox Last? A Bel Air Injector Explains
By Dr. Tessa, Beauty Spot Med Spa
How long does Botox last?
Botox typically lasts about three months. It works by temporarily blocking a protein called SNAP-25 at the nerve ending, which is what tells the muscle to contract. While it's blocked, the muscle relaxes and lines soften. Over roughly 90 days, your body repairs that connection and the muscle gradually wakes back up.
Why some people feel it lasts longer
Some clients feel their results last longer, and there's a real reason for that. Giving those muscles a rest lets the skin smooth out, so lines can look softer for a while even as movement returns. That's why I recommend a refresh every three months, so you never hit an "in-between" phase.
Is Botox safe?
The most common worry I hear from first-timers is about allergies and serious side effects. It's a fair question, and I love that you ask. Botox has one of the longest safety track records in aesthetics, and true allergic reactions are very rare. In 15 years of injecting, I can count on one hand the times I've even wondered about one. The most common side effects are mild and short-lived, like a little redness, tenderness or a tiny bruise. Before your treatment, I go over your health history to make sure Botox is right for you, and afterward I'm always just a text away.
What happens at your first Botox visit
Your first visit is quick, easy and all about you. I take care of the paperwork behind the scenes, so you can relax. We talk through your main concerns and questions, and if it helps, I'll walk you through all your options. I'm here to educate, not to sell. I only offer treatments I'd do on myself, which is why my practice is so curated and designed to keep you authentically you. If you already know what you want, my Botox Express appointment gets you in and out.
Related: First Time Botox: What to Expect Before, During & After
Aftercare and when you'll see results
Aftercare is simple. Skip vigorous activity and exercise for the rest of the day, and avoid sleeping on your face that night. You'll notice a difference within a few days, and full results settle in at about two weeks. That's why I tell every client: for the first 14 days, you can't hate it and you can't love it yet. At day 14, if anything needs a little enhancement, your touch-up is complimentary.
Who is Botox for?
Botox is a want, not a need, and that's what makes it fun. It's for anyone who'd like a little pick-me-up, a freshen-up or a subtle lift. I'm seeing people start younger and younger, and the teens and very early twenties are usually too soon. For the record, I started at 26. The right time is whenever you feel ready. In my opinion, Botox can help many people put off more invasive, permanent procedures like facial plastic surgery.
Ready for your refresh?
New to Beauty Spot? Try our $179 Botox special (first area, up to 20 units). Learn about Botox at Beauty Spot or book your visit.
🌿 I haven't needed Botox in years, and this is why. Take the quiz →
Results vary from person to person. This article is for education and isn't a substitute for a personal consultation.