How long will Botox last in the forehead?

Botox is one of the most effective cosmetic injectables to treat horizontal forehead lines. Botox is a neuromodulator composed of a special protein called botulinum toxin. When injected into the forehead, the neurotoxic protein blocks communications between your nerve endings and the muscles controlling the forehead lines. As such, Botox injections in the forehead temporarily paralyze the muscles responsible for your forehead lines, which, in turn, smoothens the area.

 Botox comes in doses of 50 to 100 units per vial. According to Allergan, the producers of Botox, practitioners should inject a total of 20 units in 5 strategically-chosen areas around the forehead for optimal results. However, practitioners generally provide 10 to 30 doses, depending on your specific condition and goals. Some practitioners provide a lower dosage to ensure subtle results without freezing your expressions. And some practitioners provide a higher dosage if you’ve developed a tolerance to Botox.

 However, Botox doesn’t last forever. Your body continues producing new neurotransmitters, so the Botox injection’s “blocking” effects will eventually wear off. Generally speaking, Botox injections in the forehead last for approximately 4 months. However, the specific longevity of the treatment depends on the specific dosage, your tolerance to the product, exercise level, and other factors. Below, we discuss the factors affecting your Botox injections’ longevity in the forehead and tips on extending the longevity.

 Factors affecting the longevity of your Botox injections

1. Metabolism: Different people have different metabolic rates. However, most people metabolize the product in 3 to 4 months.
2. Forehead Lines: The longevity of the Botox also depends on the size and depth of your forehead lines. Mild forehead lines may remain suppressed for longer, but deeper lines may become visible sooner.
3. Activity Level: Exercising is important. However, excessive workouts may lead to increased muscle contractions that make the Botox wear off faster.
4. Dosage: The Botox longevity also depends on the Botox dosage. A lower dosage may be preferable for subtle results, but the effects may also wear off sooner. Meanwhile, a higher dosage lasts longer, but it also runs the risk of overcorrection.
5. Expressions: The forehead lines strengthen and deepen the more you use your facial expressions. As such, you can make your Botox last longer by limiting your expressiveness — you can also communicate your expressions without raising your eyebrows.
6. Stress: Botox results fade away faster if you’re stressed or ill.
7. Frequency: The frequency of your Botox injections also determines the treatment’s longevity. Patients who get maintenance treatments every 2 to 3 months (before the previous results wear off) can maintain the results for over a year.
8. Tolerance: Patients with a long history of Botox usage often develop a tolerance to the product. As such, subsequent Botox injections may last less than usual until they stop working altogether. At that stage, you can shift to other neuromodulators, like Dysport or Xeomin.

 Tips to increase the longevity of your Botox injections in the forehead

1. Use highly-skilled Botox injectors who provide the ideal dosage for your results and longevity.
2. Avoid strenuous workouts and direct sunlight for the first 24 hours.
3. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or tanning beds.
4. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever you go outside.
5. Moisturize your skin and stay hydrated.
6. Avoid or manage stress.
7. Take zinc supplements to promote anti-aging.
8. Stop smoking.
9. Avoid strenuous workouts.
10. Opt for maintenance treatments at appropriate intervals to extend the Botox results.

 Dr. Poulos is a double board-certified cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon with over 25 years of experience with surgical and non-surgical treatments. She’s incredibly experienced at providing Botox injections in the forehead to ensure optimal results and longevity. Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Poulos to discuss your Botox treatment options.