When does botox work and how long does the effect last?
Botox is the drug we use to reduce and prevent wrinkles. In this article, we will discuss the efficacy of botox, such as the duration of the effect, treatment protocols and ways to optimize the effect of botox. So that you can enjoy our botox treatment longer.
We will start this article at the basics, namely how exactly the drug botulinum toxin A – more popularly known as botox – works.
Effect of botox in brief
- What is botox? A protein complex that temporarily relaxes muscles and reduces wrinkles
- When do you see effect? Within 2 to 5 days after injection
- When is it maximally visible? Between day 10 and 14
- How long does botox work? On average 3 to 4 months
- How can you prolong the effect? Repeat treatments, zinc supplements and good skin care
What is botox and how does it work?
Botox is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is a protein complex that acts on the nervous system by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
After injection into the muscle, botox is absorbed by the nerve endings. This happens at the neuromuscular junction, where nerve cells transmit signals to muscles. Within the nerve cell, it splits into a light and a heavy chain. The heavy chain helps botox enter the cell, while the light chain breaks down the protein SNAP-25 that is essential for the release of acetylcholine. Without acetylcholine, the muscle can no longer contract properly, leading to the desired decreased muscle activity.
When does the effect of botox occur?
The effect of a botox treatment is not visible immediately after treatment. Generally, the effect begins within 2 to 5 days after the injection. The maximum result is visible between 10 and 14 days after treatment. This can vary slightly from person to person and treatment area to area.
How long does the effect of botox last?
The efficacy of botox is temporary. The duration of the effect depends on several factors, such as one’s own metabolism, the muscle group treated and the dosage. If we assume average in all respects, the result of a botox treatment is visible for 3 months. With regular treatments, the duration of the effect may increase, as the muscles get used to the reduced activity.
Botox brands and differences in efficacy
Botulinum toxin type A is available worldwide under various brand names. In Europe, the brands Botox®, Azzalure® and Dysport®, Bocouture® and Alluzience® are particularly common.
Comparison of botox brands and their duration of action:
| Brand | Manufacturer | Average operating time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Botox® | Allergan | 3-4 months | Standard botox formula |
| Dysport® | Ipsen | 3-4 months | Faster effect, possibly shorter duration |
| Azzalure® | Galderma | 3-4 months | Variant of Dysport® |
| Bocouture® | Merz Pharma | 3-5 months | No complexing proteins, less risk of resistance |
| Xeomin® | Merz Pharma | 3-5 months | Same as Bocouture® |
| Alluzience® | Galderma | Up to 6 months | First liquid botox, longer duration of action |
Factors affecting the duration of botox
- Metabolism and lifestyle: a fast metabolism can break down botox faster.
- Muscle group treated:
- Small muscles (such as frown wrinkle) retain effect longer.
- Large muscles (such as jaw muscle) can break down botox faster.
- Frequency of treatments: regular injections may prolong the duration.
How can you optimize the effect of botox?
While botox is effective on its own, with the right approach, you can significantly improve and prolong the results. Consider a smart treatment protocol, supportive lifestyle choices and proper aftercare. Below, we explain how to get the most out of your botox treatment.
Recommended treatment protocol for long-lasting results
We recommend repeating the botox treatment according to the treatment protocol below for lasting results, this may vary from person to person.
- First 2 years: repeat every 3 months to create habituation.
- After 2 years: extend interval to 4-6 months depending on muscle activity.
- Maintenance phase: some patients may eventually suffice with treatments every 6 months.
What can and cannot you do after treatment?
- Avoid intense exercise for the first 24 hours.
- No sauna or exposure to extreme heat.
- Do not rub or massage the injection site.
- Do not lie on your side or sleep for the first 4 hours after treatment.
Lifestyle and supplement tips for maximum effect
- Skin care and protection:
- Sunscreen prevents faster skin aging.
- Hydrating products such as hyaluronic acid support the skin.
- Regular maintenance treatments: keeps muscles relaxed for a long time.
- Supplementation with zinc:
- Research shows that 50 mg of zinc per day in combination with phytase supplements can increase the effectiveness of botox.
Prolong the effect of botox with zinc supplements
Research from 2012 shows that candidates who took zinc supplements with phytase reported nearly 30% greater effectiveness and durability of their botox treatment.
Frequently asked questions about the effects of botox
Sources:
A review of the longevity of effect of botulinum toxin in wrinkle treatments, G Wright, A Lax, S B Mehta, 2018:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29472686/
Effect of Dietary Zinc and Phytase Supplementation on Botulinum Toxin Treatments – John C. Koshy MD et al, 2012:
https://jddonline.com/articles/zinc-and-phytase-botox
Pharmacotherapeutic Compass – Botulinum toxin A:
https://www.farmacotherapeutischkompas.nl/…
This article is based on our knowledge and experience, scientific studies and product information from botox manufacturers. More research is needed to clarify the impact by brand, age, gender, ethnicity, zinc and phytase supplementation on botox efficacy.
