How Long Does it Take for Botox® to Work?

How Does Botox® Work? 

Botulinum toxin products like Botox® and Dysport® work the same way, but with minor variations that affect which will work best for you. When injected, Botox® and other botulinum toxin treatments travel to the nerves that control your facial muscles. Botox® works by limiting the release of a neurotransmitter that carries signals to the muscles. By blocking acetylcholine, botulinum toxin causes temporary muscle relaxation that smooths your lines and wrinkles. Despite being called a toxin, Botox® causes no harmful effects on the nerves or muscles. 

How Long Does it Take Botox® to Work?

The effects of Botox® usually start to become visible within three days after injection. The full effect can take up to two weeks to become visible. Your Botox® results typically last three to four months. Some people who have Botox® regularly may notice that their results last longer than those new to treatment. The lasting time of your Botox® depends on how your body reacts and how long it takes to filter away the botulinum toxin. 

Botox® vs. Dysport®

Dysport® is another formula of botulinum that works similarly to Botox®. Both products treat the same areas of the face and work by relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles to form. However, Dr. Dohner and his NYSV team prefer Dysport® for many people. 

One key difference is the speed of onset. Dysport® tends to take effect more quickly than Botox®, with the effects becoming noticeable within 24-48 hours. In contrast, Botox® can take up to three days to start working.

The products also use different molecules that accompany the botulinum toxin. Dysport® has smaller molecules than Botox®, which means that it can spread further from the injection site. This can be an advantage in certain areas of the face, such as the forehead, where it can achieve a smooth, even distribution.