How long does Botox last?
The short version, the week-by-week timeline, and how to book your next appointment before it wears off.
The Botox timeline, week by week
| When | What usually happens |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Small bumps at the injection points settle within hours. No lying down, rubbing or intense exercise for the rest of the day. |
| Day 2 to 5 | First softening of the lines. |
| Day 10 to 14 | Full effect. This is when injectors usually check the result and add a small top-up if needed. |
| Week 8 to 12 | Movement gradually comes back. |
| Month 3 to 4 | Most people book their next appointment. |
What makes Botox wear off sooner (or last longer)
- Dose: fewer units wear off faster. Writing down your units per area shows what works for you.
- Area: forehead, frown lines (glabella) and crow's feet each behave differently.
- Strong muscles and fast metabolism: very active muscles and lots of intense exercise are often linked with shorter results.
- First treatment: first-timers often find it fades closer to 3 months; many regulars find it lasts a little longer.
- Product: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and other brands work in similar time frames, but the units are not interchangeable between brands.
When to book your next Botox appointment
Book when you notice movement coming back, rather than waiting until the effect is completely gone. For many people that is every 12 to 16 weeks. Many injectors recommend not having it more often than about every 12 weeks, so ask yours what interval suits you.
Tip: put the next appointment in your calendar on the day of your treatment, together with the units, product and areas. Next time you can tell your injector exactly what you had.
Frequently asked questions
Does Botox last longer the more often you get it?
Some people find their results last a little longer after several regular treatments. It is not guaranteed, which is why tracking your own dates is the most reliable guide.
Can I get a Botox top-up before 3 months?
A small top-up at the 2-week check is common. Full treatments much closer together than 12 weeks are usually discouraged; ask your injector.
How many units of Botox is normal?
It depends on the area and your muscles. Keep a record of your units per zone so you and your injector can adjust from one session to the next.
Log the date, units per zone and product on a face map. Glamdu reminds you about 3 months later, before the effect fades.
General information, not medical advice. How long a treatment lasts varies from person to person; always follow your injector, dermatologist or practitioner. Last updated October 10, 2026.
