Longer-Lasting Beauty: Tips to Extend the Life of Your Botox® and Facial Treatments

Author

Dr. Stephen Cosentino

Botulinum toxin injections — Botox®, Juveau®, Xeomin®, Dysport® — temporarily soften fine lines, wrinkles, and other subtle signs of aging in the face and neck. They can also reduce symptoms associated with musculoskeletal conditions like excessive sweating, urinary incontinence, and chronic migraine.

But “temporary” is the key word here. Repeat injections are needed to sustain results. Otherwise, you’re right back where you started.

Botox results aren’t all or nothing though. You can prolong its effectiveness by following a few simple tips.

How Long Does Botox Last, Anyway?

First, a quick refresher on how long Botox actually lasts. Most providers’ rule of thumb is three to four months, but it really depends on the patient, the injection site, the amount of Botox used, and other variable factors.

The good news is that by following the science, you can extend your Botox results by weeks or even months. You might be able to go up to six months before returning to your injector’s office.

Tips to Extend the Effectiveness of Your Botox Treatment

Here’s what you can do to spend less time at the clinic and more time enjoying your fabulous-looking Botox results.

1. Work With a Well-Trained Provider

The most important thing you can do is work with a competent provider who’s board certified in their practice area and has completed advanced Botox injection training. This has benefits beyond longer Botox results. The risk of side effects and complications is lower when you work with an expert.

That doesn’t mean working with a high-priced plastic surgeon or dermatologist, necessarily. Your state may allow dentists, physician assistants, and even registered nurses to inject Botox without direct physician supervision.

2. Follow Your Provider’s Post-Treatment Instructions

Your Botox journey doesn’t end when you walk out of your provider’s office. What you do over the next 24 to 48 hours could influence how long your Botox results last — or don’t. Follow their instructions carefully.

Your provider will probably tell you to:

Avoid laying down for several hours after treatment
Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours
Avoid massaging the treatment area
Exercise your facial muscles (carefully) after 48 hours have passed
Manage your stress levels for the first few days
Report any skin reactions, flulike symptoms, muscle weakness, or other concerning symptoms

They may also pass along the following tips!

3. Keep Up Your Skincare Routine

The right skincare products not only protect your skin and keep it hydrated. They also complement Botox results, allowing your newly smoothed-over skin to shine for longer. Look for products with hyaluronic acid and other anti-aging ingredients.

4. Eat Healthy & Stay Hydrated

This good life advice is especially important after Botox treatment. Don’t overthink it. You can’t go wrong if you:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day
Avoid red meat and other foods that promote inflammation
Eat healthy proteins like lean meat and nuts
Focus on healthy fats, like low-mercury fish, that are high in omega-3 fatty acids
Take a vitamin or zinc supplement as directed by your medical provider

5. Avoid Direct Sunlight Immediately After Treatment & Use Sun Protection

Sun exposure can counteract Botox results, landing you back in the injector’s chair before you’re ready. Avoid direct sunlight the first day or two after treatment and wear at least SPF 30 sunscreen afterward. If you need extra motivation, just read up on the risks of UV radiation.