7 Tips to help botox last longer

This month we thought we’d share our top tips which might help you get the most from your toxin treatment.*
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1) keep it regular

As far as your time and budget allow, we recommend maintaining the results of your previous procedure, rather than letting the effects fully wear off in between. This is one way to help achieve better results for longer.

​For patients who are new to Botox® (which is one brand of toxin, we use Azzalure in our Oxfordshire and Warwickshire clinics) many report that the effects improve and last longer after the first couple of treatments or so, since your muscles effectively ‘learn’ what to do to respond to the toxin. 

If too much time passes in between toxin treatment and the effects fully disappear, then your medical practitioner is effectively starting from scratch again each time they see you, which can make it harder to achieve the desired results. 

​So how often should you get Botox® treatment? As a guide, for most people the effects of toxin last around 3-4 months. You will feel when the effects are wearing off – you may literally feel the difference, e.g. tension and headaches you've experienced previously may return or you start to notice the frown/lines returning. 

Research suggests (and many of our patients report) that Botox® can improve mood, since it stops the ‘facial feedback’ to the brain that we are angry or sad, as the muscle action is reduced. You may therefore find that you feel a bit grumpier as your Botox® is wearing off, giving you another sign that it’s time to re-treat!

2) stay faithful

Where possible, it is a good idea to visit one aesthetic practitioner for your non-surgical procedures, since that medical practitioner can develop a good knowledge of your needs, your face and care. If you've found someone you trust and have been pleased with the results then it is good to stick with them if you can. Your practitioner can then know exactly what products have been used, where on the face and when, for example. 

If you have had to change practitioner or are new to Botox® then just bear in mind that your new medical practitioner is developing familiarity with your face and writing a personal prescription for you, and while they will want the very best results for you, it may take more than one treatment to get things spot on. We all have asymmetries and idiosyncrasies of the face which your aesthetics practitioner will be getting to know.

3) boost your zinc intake

Zinc is an important nutrient which has been proven to help improve Botox® results and increase their duration. Many people may be unaware that they are low on zinc, especially in the case of women who have been through pregnancy and breastfeeding, both of which can leave many of the body’s resources depleted.

Zinc can be obtained naturally from a number of food sources, including nuts, seeds, and lentils. Or you could even try taking a specific zinc supplement, such as Zytase™ ahead of your toxin procedure to give yourself a boost. 

4) re-think your workout

While activities like long-distance running can be great for your stamina and fitness, this type of physical motion can really increase the rate at which you break down Botox® and other aesthetic products, like dermal fillers, meaning you need to re-treat more often. Such activities can also increase loss of facial fat and collagen which you may find contributes to facial sagging and ageing.

If you want your workout to be good for your face, you might want to try swapping intense cardio blasting for a more weights-based workouts, or at least try mixing it up more regularly, if you don't want to leave it out completely.

5) let your practitioner re-assess you

Together, you and your Botox® practitioner can set a long-term plan for your procedures. Remember that your face and needs will change over time, so your practitioner will need to review your treatment plan as time goes on. He or she can also let you know when they think you will be due for re-treatment, which will help you to keep your schedule and maintain the results.

6) look after your skin

While Botox® treats the 'dynamic' lines and wrinkles caused by our expressive muscle movements, there may be static lines in the skin caused by sun damage (one of the main causes of skin ageing) and dehydration. It's important to protect your skin from sun damage by using SPF 50 sun protection all year round (yes, even in the UK, as UV can still be high) and reapplying regularly when you're spending time outside. 

An additional benefit of Botox® for the skin is that can help inhibit sebum production, so you may notice you get fewer skin breakouts following the procedure. 

7. FOLLOW AFTERCARE ADVICE

Your medical practitioner will advise you on the things to avoid post-procedure, make sure you follow this. If you have been having toxin treatment for a while but don't feel clear on the aftercare, it's a good idea to check with your practitioner if you need a reminder.

We hope you've found our toxin treatment tips helpful; If would like further information and/or to arrange your consultation in our Oxford or Leamington Spa clinic please do give us a call today. 

​*Disclaimer: this article does not constitute medical advice. Botox is a prescription-only medical procedure which can only be carried out by a trained medical practitioner following consultation. Results of aesthetic procedures can be subjective and vary according to the individual; specific procedure results can never be guaranteed* ​