botox is botulinum toxin :: Article CreatorWhen Is The Right Time For Botox? Expert Shares A Guide To Timing And Treatment
Taking care of your skin is a personal journey, and for many, Botox has become a go-to option to maintain a youthful glow. Whether you're hoping to smooth out those early signs of ageing or treat other concerns like migraines or excessive sweating, Botox can offer some impressive benefits. But knowing when to start, and when to stop, can be a bit tricky. Is there a perfect age to try it? What if you're already noticing fine lines or wrinkles? And when should one stop it?
To help demystify these questions, Dr Vidushi Jain, Dermatologist and Medical Head, Dermalinks, Noida and Ghaziabad, explains what Botox is, how it works, and how to determine the right timing for your unique needs.
What is Botox?
"Botox is a shorthand term for botulinum toxin, which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When injected into the body in a minute, controlled amounts, it temporarily paralyses targeted muscles, effectively eliminating wrinkles and fine lines," said Dr Jain. Botox has been adequately proven and supported by the FDA to be one of the safest and most effective non-invasive cosmetic treatments.
Apart from cosmetic goals, Botox has therapeutic uses for conditions, such as migraines, excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis, muscle spasms, and some bladder issues, she added.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2016, more than 4.5 million Botox and similar treatments were carried out to combat wrinkles, making it the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in the United States.
Also Read: Botox vs Fillers: Know The Difference Between Two Beauty Treatments
When to Use Botox?
According to a 2010 study, the effects of the toxin typically take 24-72 hours to kick in, as it disrupts the synaptic process. In rare cases, it may take up to five days for the full effects to be seen. The results usually peak around 10 days and can last for 8-12 weeks.
Here's a general guideline as to when to opt for a botox treatment:
1. Preventative Botox (Mid to Late 20s or Early 30s)
A lot of people begin using Botox in their late 20s to early 30s, a practice commonly known as preventive Botox. This treatment works by relaxing the muscles responsible for repetitive movements, such as frowning or squinting. By doing so, it helps prevent the fine lines that result from these repeated facial expressions.
Fact: Early use of Botox can delay the onset of deeper wrinkles, including those on the forehead, around the eyes (crow's feet), and between the eyebrows (frown lines).
2. When You Notice Wrinkles (Mid to Late 30s and Beyond)
If you are already noticing wrinkles at rest, it is not too late to begin Botox. It can help diminish already-present lines and prevent them from becoming any deeper.
3. Customised Timing
Germline defects and exposures, such as to the sun or smoking, and stressors also contribute to ageing. Your dermatologist will look at your skin and give you a personal recommendation for when you should start Botox.
Also Read: Are Fillers And Botox Safe? Here Are Pre And Post Care Tips For Those Planning To Get Fillers
When to Quit Botox?
Botox is not a permanent decision by any means. There is no date and time but in some cases, maybe it is time to consider another option:
1. Health Issues
If you contract medical conditions that would make Botox dangerous to administer, like neuromuscular disorders, or you have extreme sensitivities then you need to stop using the treatment.
2. Failure to Meet Expectations
Skin becomes relatively elastic and loose with time. Botox may not have the dramatic effect that it did once. More effective approaches at this point may include the use of Botox in combination with other treatments, such as dermal fillers or altogether other options.
3. Personal Preference
Some individuals may feel they no longer need Botox, either due to changing aesthetic goals or financial considerations.
Why Timing Matters?
Dr Jain advised, "Starting Botox too early may result in unnecessary procedures while waiting too long can make it harder to achieve optimal results. Regular consultation with a qualified dermatologist ensures you're making informed decisions tailored to your skin's needs."
Bottomline
Dr Jain concluded, "It's not about a pretty face; it's about being good about one's skin, as long as you want to at any age. If you are among those who are considering Botox, it is much more important that you see an experienced dermatologist to guide when to begin, how often to maintain it, and perhaps when to stop."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]
Botox Is Making You Look OLDER & It's A Total Scam, You're Essentially Poisoning Your Face, Skin & Wellness Expert Says
THE debate of whether you should or shouldn't do preventative Botox has been a big topic amongst beauty experts and fans.
But one wellness expert wants to set the record straight.
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Maria Marlowe is against the injections as she believes that Botox is a 'total scam'Credit: tiktok/@thebalancetheorypodcast
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She was speaking on The Balance Theory podcastCredit: tiktok/@thebalancetheorypodcast
Maria Marlowe believes that "Botox is a total scam."
Speaking on The Balance Theory podcast, she goes on to explain: "I'm not a fan of preventative Botox. It's a total scam.
"What we're seeing now is that when we start doing Botox, really at any age, but especially at that young age, when you're paralysing the muscles, once it wears off, your skin is actually becoming more lax.
"So it kind of creates the need to use more Botox."
Botox has become a popular injectable amongst beauty fans as it temporarily reduces or eliminated fine lines and wrinkles.
The injection - which is commonly used to treat crow's feet, frown lines and forehead creases - has seen a 124 per cent increase from the previous year for Botox treatments in the UK.
This topic is regularly up for debate with some other experts believing that does help when it comes to preventing wrinkles.
However, previously speaking Dr Jennifer Owens, a cosmetic expert, believes that it works best for those who may be prone to get deep or lots of wrinkles.
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Dr Owens says: "If we relax some overly expressive muscles, we get less creasing of the skin and prevent lines forming as quickly, or potentially at all."
However speaking on The Balance Theory podcast, Maria, who has radiant looking youthful skin, doesn't agree whilst also revealing that she has never had Botox.
Skin doctor reveals the anti ageing tip that really 'turns back time' and the Boots buy that's 'Botox in a bottle'
She continues: "This is actually something I'm really passionate about.
"When I was younger, probably, I don't know, 17 or 18 around there, I did Botox under my arms because it's also marketed as a way to stop sweating.
"And at that time, I was not into the health and wellness scene.
"But long story short, it created a lot of problems for me."
It's a scam for people in their twenties. I had my first Botox at 36 and it's amazing
TikTok comment
Maria explained that getting Botox in her under arms didn't stop the sweating and instead caused "a lot of problems" including an autoimmune condition.
She continues: "This was also something that helped me really get into health and wellness as well.
"The more research I did, the more I realised that Botox, it's a toxin, right.
"It's botulinum toxin. And we're injecting this into our body."
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She believes that it is a toxin getting injected into the body and won't do any goodCredit: tiktok/@thebalancetheorypodcast
Maria praises the "trend" of Botox slowing down as she believes it's "not good for our skin long term."
She continues: "I think there's so many other ways that if we want to keep our skin looking, you know, a certain way.
"I think there's so many other ways to do it that don't involve injecting poison into our face."
This is not true. I've done Botox for 20 years. It's wonderful
TikTok comment
The podcast, which was shared on TikTok, sparked a debate with many people rushing to the comments section to share their thoughts.
Going against what Maria has said, one beauty fan argued: "This is not true. I've done Botox for 20 years. It's wonderful."
A second added: "Not sure who she went to, but I've been having it since 37, 50 now and I always have a break once a year and my skin is great, not over sagging or over wrinkled."
But others agreed with Maria and wrote: "The first problem here is that people at the age of 17 know what it is…I had no idea Botox existed when I was 17!"
Another added: "It's a scam for people in their twenties. I had my first Botox at 36 and it's amazing."
A third said: "My sister started using Botox in her thirties. She is now 54 and deeply regrets it as the look now is not good!"
How much does Botox cost?
BOTOX and anti-wrinkle injections are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments available today.
Botox injections work by weakening or paralyzing certain muscles or by blocking certain nerves.
The effects last about three to twelve months, depending on what you are treating.
The NHS website estimates each botulinum toxin injection costs £150-£350 per session.
The price varies depending on how much is used per session, they add.
Botox prices fluctuate depending on where you go to get it done and the number of areas treated.
Some companies offer one area for around the £200 mark, and most offer packages if you want to add more areas to your treatment.
It is worth doing your research before you undergo the treatment – and remember that going 'cheap' isn't always a good idea.
Dermatologists Say These Products Work Like Botox In A Bottle For Youthful-Looking Skin
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Botox in a bottle—a title given to topical wrinkle fillers and efficacious anti-aging serums—has been all the rage for those wanting to look younger and age gracefully, sans numbing cream and needles. But how do these powerhouse skincare products stack up against the tried and true in-office treatments?
Botox (a.K.A. Botulinum toxin type A), known as a neuromodulator, "is a protein that is extracted from a bacteria that previously caused paralysis," explains Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ. "It is essentially a muscle relaxant, and it was through the treatment of muscle spasms that we discovered that by relaxing the muscles responsible for a lot of the dynamic lines that you see in people's faces, it was softening wrinkles as well."
Meet the experts: Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ; Laura Scott, M.D., board-certified dermatologist; Dendy Engelman, M.D., board-certified dermatologic surgeon at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York City
The term "Botox in a bottle" refers to topical products, like anti-aging serums and creams, that aim to emulate the results of an in-office, injectable treatment. "While there is nothing in the world that can truly replace Botox," says Dendy Engelman, M.D., board-certified dermatologic surgeon at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in NYC, "these products feature ingredients that contribute to overall skin health and can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles."
Ahead, find out exactly which products dermatologists say have earned the title of Botox in a bottle. These expert picks are jam-packed with effective skincare ingredients for firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
Argireline Solution 10%
"If I were to call anything 'Botox in a bottle,' it would be the Argireline serum from The Ordinary," says Dr. Lal. "Argireline is a neuropeptide that works very similarly to Botox. It softens fine lines, reduces pore size, and gives the skin a nice taut and firm appearance." It also comes recommended by board-certified dermatologist Laura Scott, M.D. For its simple formula and ability to "smooth out fine lines."
User review: "This is truly Botox in a bottle, if you use it consistently. I have definitely noticed a decrease in my forehead lines. Highly recommend," wrote one Sephora shopper.
The Ordinary
$7.90 at ulta.Com
Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body and Face Lotion
Retinol benefits abound, especially for those looking to reduce visible signs of aging. This affordable face and body lotion contains not only retinol but firming peptides and hydrating ingredients as well. Dr. Scott says this product is a "great option" and can usually be found in drugstores. "It's formulated with retinol, peptides, urea, and niacinamide to smooth skin," she explains. Plus, "93% of users had visibly smoother skin in three days," she says.
User review: "Love this stuff! I use it every day on my face and neck and after about a month, the deepest wrinkles on my face and neck have noticeably diminished! I honestly did not think I would see such a difference! Also, it doesn't burn my face like some of the other retinol brands I have used," wrote one Amazon shopper.
Gold Bond
$11.97 at amazon.Com
TNS Advanced+ Serum
"Along with peptides, this product also has essential growth factors to really help rebuild that structural support in the skin," says Dr. Engelman. "This next-generation, skin rejuvenating formula improves the appearance of coarse wrinkles, fine lines, skin tone, and texture in as little as two weeks." Dr. Lal is also a fan of the serum, noting that it helps with providing a smoother, more tightened appearance.
User review: "I've used this product for several years. It has done more to improve the texture of my skin than any other skin product I've used. My skin is smoother and the texture has improved! Fine lines are lessened. I feel more confident going without makeup because my skin looks so much better. Highly recommend," wrote one Amazon shopper.
SkinMedica
$295.00 at amazon.Com
Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 6
If you're looking to hold off or avoid Botox around the eyes, try this Vitamin A-enriched eye cream. Dr. Englman says this formula "is great for targeting the eye area to reduce the appearance of crow's feet, wrinkles, crepiness, and puffiness." It contains retinaldehyde, a more gentle form of retinol, as well as ceramides and hyaluronic acid to smooth the skin with less risk of irritation.
User review: "Love this product, had zero irritation which was a huge surprise as I have sensitive eyes. My eyes went from crepey (I'm 58) to smooth which I never thought would happen! Will definitely be a permanent addition to my skincare routine," wrote one Medik8 shopper.
Medik8
$52.80 at amazon.Com
Instant FIRMx Temporary Eye Tightener
If you're looking for instant results, Dr. Lal recommends this cream that has earned high praise from all corners of the internet. It works differently than other "Botox in a bottle" products in that it forms a film on the skin thanks to the silicates in the formula, giving the skin a taut appearance and drastically softening lines, wrinkles, and texture, says Dr. Lal.
User review: "The instant results are truly remarkable. Upon application, the Eye Tightener works its magic, visibly tightening and lifting the delicate skin around my eyes. Fine lines, wrinkles, and puffiness seem to vanish, leaving a smooth and revitalized appearance. It's like having an instant facelift specifically tailored for the eyes," wrote one Amazon shopper.
Peter Thomas Roth
$38.00 at amazon.Com
Revox Line Relaxer
Dr. Lal recommends this serum from Revision Skincare for its ability to not only help soften lines around the eyes, but to help maintain the results of in-office Botox should you choose to go that route. It's formulated with a variety of peptides and hydrating hyaluronic acid, making it a standout product for smoothing the skin with or without injectables.
User review: "I am 58 years old and stopped using Botox five years ago. Since stopping, I have had a lot of deep wrinkles around my eyes and forehead. I was reluctant to invest a lot of money on a product like this, but I am seeing some dramatic results. Yes, the wrinkles are still there, but the creases are much smaller, finer, and I think are suitable for a woman my age," wrote one Amazon shopper.
Revision Skincare
$154.00 at amazon.Com
Bio-Renew EGF Cream
This cream is a favorite of Dr. Engelman's for its advanced formula that contains vegan epidermal growth factors (EGF), peptides, and phyto-retinol (plant-based retinol alternatives like bakuchiol). "EGF triggers the production of collagen and elastin, which makes our skin barrier stronger and helps our skin stay more youthful looking," says Dr. Engelman. "This cream is great for any skin type because it moisturizes, repairs, and gently combats aging signs without being irritating or occlusive."
User review: "I've been really impressed by this cream. I've been using it for about three weeks, and I have definitely noticed improvements in my skin's texture and coloring. It's reduced fine lines and has fixed discoloration. It's rich but not greasy; it smooths into the skin nicely," wrote one Amazon shopper.
Glo Skin Beauty
$178.00 at amazon.Com
DermInfusions Fill + Repair Serum
Formulated with bakuchiol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), this serum helps to "smooth lines and plump skin," says Dr. Scott. The serum is formulated to provide immediate and long-term results with a variety of ingredients designed to deeply hydrate the skin while boosting collagen production with continued use.
User review: "I'm impressed with how lightweight this moisturizing lotion is. It goes on smoothly and gets absorbed by the skin in no time. It's great for sensitive skin and a great choice for moisturizing my face. Since I've been using it regularly for a few weeks now, I've noticed a remarkable difference in how smooth and healthy my skin looks and feels. I couldn't be happier with the results," wrote one Amazon shopper.
Dr. Dennis Gross
$75.00 at amazon.Com
Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum
"Formulated with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and squalene, this serum is another great option to help smooth fine lines and plump skin," says Dr. Engelman. Specifically, this product contains copper peptides, which help brighten the skin and aid in collagen production for an overall smoother, more radiant complexion, per the brand.
User review: "It does everything it says. Truly a miracle product. I see the lines on my face melt away when I put it on. I've used it for a week and I'm hooked!" wrote one Amazon shopper.
Biossance
$68.00 at amazon.Com
Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum
Recommended by Dr. Engelman, this serum uses retinol to boost collagen production—which may result in smoother, healthier skin. The formula also contains peptides, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides which help with providing "smooth, glowing skin without irritation," says Dr. Engleman.
User review: "I started using this product about three months ago. Since I've started using it I get so many compliments on how great my skin looks. My skin has a nice even, glowy look and it visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines. So glad I introduced this into my skincare routine," wrote one Ulta shopper.
Kiehl's
$62.00 at ulta.Com
P-TIOX Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum
This trending product from SkinCeuticals "has been shown to visibly reduce nine types of expression lines and give that 'glass skin' appearance in one week," says Dr. Lal. He adds that the results are
User review: "I don't use neuromodulators, but I have noticed a difference in my skin texture and appearance since adding this to my routine along with SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic morning and night. My small forehead lines and crow's feet are less noticeable and my skin looks smoother overall," wrote one shopper on the Dermstore website.
SkinCeuticals
$148.00 at Dermstore
Pro-Max Age Renewal
Dr. Lal praises this product from PCA Skin for its anti-aging properties. "This serum has been shown to smooth visible lines and coarse wrinkles by 40% and to clinically lift and firm the appearance of skin by 60%," he explains. "It has micro growth factors which help stimulate collagen along with skin firming biopolymers which actually provide an instant skin-firming and reduction effect on wrinkles."
User review: "This has become one of my holy grail products. I am now on my third bottle and cannot live without it," wrote one Dermstore shopper. "My skin type is dry and since using this I get so many compliments on how glowy and glass-like my skin is. I will continue to repurchase."
PCA SKIN
$219.00 at amazon.Com
Elastic Skin Firming & Plumping Serum
Not only is this serum intensely hydrating and nourishing thanks to vegan snail mucin and ceramides (which work to visibly plump the skin), but it also contains copper peptides to boost collagen production and promote a smoother complexion. Shoppers rave about the formula, too—it's earned over 23,000 "loves" on the Sephora website and maintains an overall rating of 4.7 out of five stars.
User review: "I love this serum!! I have severely dry skin and this gives my skin a hydrated plump look without being sticky," wrote one Sephora shopper. "It also has firming benefits and also helps with wrinkles. For the price, this is an incredible serum. I also love the fact that it is a vegan snail serum and does not have a strong scent."
iNNBEAUTY PROJECT
$36.00 at sephora.Com
Resveratrol-Lift Instant Firming Serum
While Dr. Lal isn't a fan of the fragrance included in this serum, he can understand why some reviewers love the product thanks to its nourishing ingredients. He specifically points to hyaluronic acid, sunflower seed oil, and other botanical extracts as being helpful for maintaining a healthy skin barrier. It also contains resveratrol, a potent antioxidant with firming capabilities, and vegan collagen.
User review: "I've been steadily using this every night for just over a year now and have noticed my smile lines have greatly 'ironed out'—my forehead does not have any small lines anymore and this product also gives you a very, very subtle glow about you that is quite pleasant," wrote one Amazon shopper.
Caudalie
$84.00 at amazon.Com
Hyaluron ACTIV B3 Concentrated Plumping Serum
While this serum might just look like your classic hydrating serum at first (which it does effectively, thanks to a high concentration of hyaluronic acid and glycerin), it does so much more. "The reason this is really good is because it helps get rid of senescent cells, which after they die, secrete factors that contribute to aging of the skin," explains Dr. Lal. "At this concentration of niacinamide (6%), it helps get rid of those senescent cells. After 15 days in one study, 84% agreed that their skin was tighter, and 81% agreed that their skin regained elasticity." He adds that the formula is great for those with sensitive skin, due to its short list of only six gentle ingredients.
User review: "Best kept secret ever. Price is amazing and works so well! My skin is so much brighter and smooth," wrote one Amazon reviewer. "Wish I would have discovered this product years ago!"
Avene
$40.00 at amazon.Com
How does Botox in a bottle work?
"Botox-in-a-bottle products are those that mimic the effects of Botox in terms of helping to smooth out fine lines and help the skin look more plump and youthful," explains Dr. Scott. The way that each product works to improve the appearance of the skin depends on its active ingredients.
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How do the results of Botox in a bottle compare to regular Botox?
"Botox does a couple of things. It shrinks your pores, softens fine lines, and gives your skin a nice taut appearance. And Botox, for the most part, we're injecting it into the muscle," explains Dr. Lal. "The muscle is very deep in the skin, so nothing you put on your skin is going to penetrate that muscle. But there are a few products that provide great results, and temporarily may provide some of those effects."
These topical products, in many cases, provide similar, albeit less drastic, results. Additionally, traditional Botox tends to work more quickly than Botox in-a-bottle products, which take longer to provide the expected smoothing, and lifting results. Plus, these products need to be applied regularly.
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How to choose the best Botox in a bottle product
✔️ Focus on ingredients. "The biggest ingredients to look for are retinol and peptides (that help stimulate the skin to produce collagen), followed by humectants like hyaluronic acid and/or urea for example (that help plump the skin by holding onto water)," Dr. Scott explains. Growth factors, which work similarly to peptides, are also worth looking for in a product, says Dr. Lal.
✔️ Avoid irritants. A lot of "fancy" products (that often come with a high price tag) sneak in potentially irritating ingredients like fragrance. While some skin types can handle a bit of a scent or perfume in their skincare products, if you have a history of sensitive skin or get irritation from serums or creams, Dr. Lal says to scan your product labels and put down the scented products to avoid getting sidetracked from your skincare goals.
✔️ Consider price. Luckily, there are many amazing and affordable products on the market, like the expert-recommended Argireline serum from The Ordinary or Avene Hyaluron ACTIV B3 Concentrated Plumping Serum. So don't feel like you need to splurge on a product if it's not in your budget.
✔️ Think about your goals. If you want long-term results that you're willing to wait for, consider a formula that contains ingredients proven to reduce fine lines and smooth the skin. But, if you're looking for a temporary fix, a product like the Temporary Face Tightener by Peter Thomas Roth might suit your needs better.
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How we chose the best Botox in a bottle products
We spoke with Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ; Laura Scott, M.D., board-certified dermatologist; and Dendy Engelman, M.D., board-certified dermatologic surgeon. We also conducted our own research and sifted through hundreds of online reviews to find the best Botox in-a-bottle products available.
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Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
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