How Long Does Botox Last?

Most patients begin noticing the effects of Botox within three to five days after their injection, as the targeted muscles gently begin to relax. The full, beautifully smooth results typically settle in around the two-week mark — this is when your skin looks its smoothest and fine lines are at their least visible.

From that peak, you can expect results to hold strong for roughly two to three months before movement slowly begins to return. By the three- to four-month mark, most patients notice their muscles regaining their full range of motion and lines beginning to reappear. This is the ideal time to schedule your next refinement appointment. Patients who maintain a consistent treatment schedule often find that their results begin to last longer over time, as the treated muscles gradually weaken from repeated relaxation — meaning your fourth or fifth treatment may hold noticeably longer than your first.

What Affects How Long Your Botox Lasts?

Not every patient experiences the same Botox timeline, and several key factors influence how long your results will hold. Understanding these variables helps you set realistic expectations and work with your provider to optimize your treatment plan.

Metabolism plays a significant role — patients with faster metabolic rates tend to process Botox more quickly, which can shorten the duration of results. This is why highly active individuals and athletes sometimes notice their Botox wearing off sooner than average. Treatment area also matters considerably. Smaller, thinner muscles like the crow's feet area tend to respond to lower doses and may not hold results as long as larger muscles like the frontalis (forehead) or the glabellar complex (the "11s" between the brows), which often receive higher doses and can maintain results for four months or more.

Dosage and injector expertise are equally critical. An experienced, board-certified provider understands the precise units needed for each muscle group and can tailor your treatment to maximize longevity without creating a frozen or overdone appearance. At our practice, we customize every treatment to the patient's unique anatomy, muscle strength, and aesthetic goals — whether you are coming in for Botox treatments in NYC or exploring different neuromodulator brands for the first time.

How often should I get Botox to maintain my results?
Most patients schedule Botox appointments every three to four months to maintain a consistent, smooth appearance. However, your ideal treatment interval depends on factors like your metabolism, the areas being treated, and the specific neuromodulator you are using. Patients who choose Daxxify, for example, may only need two treatments per year. During your consultation at The Dermatology and Laser Group, Dr. Arash Akhavan will recommend a personalized schedule based on your unique response to treatment.

Will my wrinkles look worse after Botox wears off?
No — this is one of the most common concerns, and it is a myth. As the neuromodulator gradually wears off, your muscle movement will return to its baseline, and your wrinkles will simply revert to how they looked before treatment. In fact, patients who maintain a consistent Botox schedule over time often notice that their lines become less pronounced even between treatments, because the muscles have been conditioned to contract less forcefully.

What should I do if my Botox seems to be wearing off faster than expected?
If you feel your results are fading sooner than the typical three- to four-month window, schedule a follow-up with your provider. In some cases, a dosage adjustment or a switch to a longer-lasting neuromodulator like Daxxify can make a significant difference. It is also worth evaluating lifestyle factors — high-intensity exercise, stress, and sun exposure can all contribute to faster metabolism of the product. Contact us to discuss optimizing your treatment plan.