The Truth About Preventative Botox

Preventative Botox is on the rise. People used to start getting Botox in their late 30s or 40s. Nowadays, it’s increasingly common to start Botox in your 20s. 

When younger people get Botox, they’re often looking for prevention rather than wrinkle reversal. 

The amounts of Botox used for prevention are low, resulting in subtle and natural results. But is starting Botox early really doing anything? In this post, we’ll dig into the science and results behind preventative Botox. 

How Preventative Botox Works 

Botox is a neuromodulator that works by blocking muscle contractions. It reduces movement only in the area where it’s injected, which makes it a very targeted wrinkle solution. 

While Botox is the most famous and popular neuromodulator, similar injectables like Dysport are just as effective and nearly interchangeable. 

Wrinkles, especially in the upper half of the face, form in part as a result of repetitive muscle movements. Raising the eyebrows causes horizontal forehead lines, while pulling the brows together causes vertical frown lines (“number 11s”). 

The idea behind preventative Botox is that reducing those muscle movements before wrinkles form helps prevent long-term folds or lines from getting etched into the skin. At a younger age, those receiving Botox can achieve stunning results even with small quantities (i.e., baby Botox).

Is Botox Really Preventative? 

Yes, Botox can be preventative as long as it’s used judiciously! 

In a clinical review on current practices, researchers found that patients in their mid-30s or younger were able to achieve excellent results with a lower quantity of Botox than older patients. 

The studies looked at overall improvements to wrinkles in the forehead and between the brows, and found that younger people often saw a greater level of wrinkle reduction. 

At a younger age, wrinkles are more dependent on muscle movement and less etched into the skin. Getting Botox when those wrinkles are purely dynamic helps prevent them from becoming etched later in life. 

This aligns with our injectors’ experience at SEV. Starting our clients on Botox early allows us to soften fine lines before they deepen, and keeps the results looking natural. This can often even prevent the need for more units down the road.

This is not to discount the effects of Botox on older clients, who still consistently saw significant wrinkle reduction. 

Are There Risks to Preventative Botox? 

Because Botox stops muscle movement, it can cause muscles to shrink over time. This can be effective for prevention, as too much muscle activity can lead to undesirable aesthetic outcomes. 

However, it’s this very effect that leads some doctors to caution against getting preventative Botox too often. With repeated injections, the muscles can become significantly smaller and weaker. Not having enough muscle to support the skin from below could, in itself, lead to wrinkle formation. 

How Often to Get Preventative Botox

The small amount of Botox used for prevention often only lasts for 2-4 months, while larger quantities can last for up to 6 months (metabolism, muscle strength, and other factors also play a role in how long Botox lasts, though). 

Keep in mind that consistently injecting the same muscle again and again can result in muscle shrinkage over time. Try to let muscle movement return completely for a period of time before getting reinjected. 

How Much Does Preventative Botox Cost? 

Preventative Botox is quite affordable, often costing $100-$200 per treatment. The amount of Botox used for prevention is very minimal, which helps keep the price point accessible. Check out our pricing page to see the cost of Botox at the SEV locations where it’s offered. 

How Long Does Preventative Botox Last? 

Botox’ effect on muscles typically lasts for 3-4 months, although the minimal amount used for prevention can be quicker to fade. However, keep in mind that muscle weakness from Botox can extend beyond its period of activity, so taking the occasional breaks may be recommended. 

Does Botox Prevent Sweating? 

Yes! When injected into the skin rather than the muscles, Botox can prevent sweat glands from activating and emitting sweat. It’s FDA-approved for preventing excessive sweating in the underarms, but it’s often also used for reducing hyperhidrosis in the palms, feet, and face. 

What It’s Like to Get Botox for Prevention 

Botox injections are quick and minimally invasive, so the process is nearly pain-free. You may feel a sting during the injection, but the entire process only lasts for a few minutes. After getting injected, you may have some mild soreness or bruising in the injection site. You can use wrapped ice packs to cool the area. 

After the injection, Botox typically takes two weeks to take full hold (Dysport may have a slightly faster onset). At that point, you will be able to examine the level of wrinkle reduction and muscle paralysis. With preventative Botox, you can still have some muscle movement even after the injection, but dynamic wrinkles will be significantly reduced. 

At What Age Should I Start Preventative Botox?

You need to be at least 18 to receive cosmetic Botox injections, but in most cases, it doesn’t make sense to start so young. The best time to start preventative Botox is just as you notice that dynamic wrinkles begin to form. 

For example, your forehead lines start to become a little more prominent after you raise your eyebrows, or your frown lines get deeper. This can vary from person to person, based on facial anatomy and lifestyle, but many people notice these signs in their mid-to-late 20s.

Expert Botox At SEV 

We love preventative Botox at SEV. Starting early allows our clients to maintain a fresh look for the coming decades. We believe in starting early and with a light touch to ensure long-lasting, natural-looking results and a lower risk of complications. 

If you’re curious about getting preventative Botox, the best way to learn if it’s right for you is by speaking to a cosmetic injections specialist. Consultations are an indispensable part of the treatment process at SEV, because tastes, desired outcomes, and facial anatomy are so individual. 

One of our aesthetic nurse injectors would be happy to analyze your features and help you decide if it’s time to get started. Book your free consultation at one of our SEV locations that offer injections.