Does Botox Actually Prevent Wrinkles?

How Botox can help prevent wrinkles

Botox has become one of the most widely used cosmetic prescription medications in the United States, and for good reasons, too. Botox, which contains botulinum toxin type A, temporarily freezes facial muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, such as crow’s feet and frown lines for up to six months.

In addition to treating existing wrinkles, Botox, when used early on, can even prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place.

The science behind preventative Botox

Since Botox works by freezing the underlying muscles that cause wrinkles, over time those muscles become weaker. This means that gradually you’ll need less Botox to achieve the same result. But how does this work in younger women?

Women in their 20s don’t have wrinkles because they have enough volume and thickness of the facial skin to withstand the folding and creasing of skin. Between the ages of 30 and 40, the skin begins to lose volume and thins, resulting in dynamic wrinkles. This is the time to start preventative Botox treatments — right before creases become deeply imprinted, causing noticeable wrinkles.

If you start Botox early enough, you’re able to atrophy the facial muscles, weakening them, which prevents dynamic wrinkles from forming.

Commitment is key

To truly prevent dynamic wrinkles from forming over time, you need to be committed to receiving Botox injections on a consistent basis. Start to treat fine lines and wrinkles with Botox when they start to stick around. In some women, this can begin in their 20s, but in other women, it typically occurs during their 30s.

You’ll need another Botox injection once Botox begins to wear out, which is between three and six months.

What you should know

Are you interested in getting preventative Botox? Here are answers to the most common questions about the popular neuromodulator:

Will Botox make me look frozen or feel numb?

Botox won’t affect any nerves that cause sensation or make you feel numb. And when done correctly, your results will look natural.

Is Botox painful?

While Botox can be slightly painful, most find the pain to be very manageable. Some medical professionals do offer topical anesthesia to numb the area before injecting Botox.

Will I experience side effects?

Every medication has potential side effects. Botox’s side effects tend to be minor and temporary. You might experience slight bruising or droopiness of the eyelid, but this usually subsides within two weeks.

How much does Botox cost?

Prices can vary a lot, but the average cost per treatment is $400 and some professionals might charge more.

How long does Botox last?

Results from a single Botox treatment last three to four months on average, and then you’ll need to get another Botox treatment.

When can I expect to see results?

Results from Botox injections will begin to show in a few days and develop gradually over the course of a few weeks.

Say goodbye to unwanted wrinkles for good

Not only does Botox treat existing wrinkles, but it can prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place. The key is to start Botox early — right when wrinkles begin to develop, usually in your early-to-mid thirties. Make sure you commit to receiving Botox treatments on a regular basis, too. Over time, you’ll notice that your skin looks ageless!

To learn more about Botox and determine if this neuromodulator is right for you, schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with LaserAway. As the nation’s leader in aesthetic dermatology, LaserAway is committed to helping you reach all of your Skin Fitness goals.

References

1. “Do You Need to Start Botox Early? Maybe Not,” Glamour, August 31, 2015.
2. “Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know About Botox,” Allure, March 12, 2012.
3. “This is the Age You Should Start Preventative Botox, According to Dermatologists,” Allure, April 20, 2017.