Beauty
Derms spill everything you should probably know.
One of the scariest beauty horror stories out there?
Your Botox suddenly stops working.
It happened to me about two years ago.
So, what gives?
This dip is referred to as Botox (or neuromodulator) resistance.
What Is Botox Resistance?
Botox and all neuromodulators (i.e.
Without this signal, the muscle doesnt move, reducing wrinkles like crows feet and forehead lines, explainsDr.
David Shafer, M.D., a double board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York City.
Movement will generally return somewhere between three to four months later.
Resistance shows up when thebody forms neutralizing antibodies against the active ingredient in Botox botulinum toxin, says Alemi.
The antibodies will target and neutralize the botulinum toxin to make it less effective or even ineffective.
Though this is a possibility, it is extremely rare, Shafer says especially in aesthetic applications.
Overall, however, true Botox resistance occurs in only around0.5% of patients.
What Causes Botox Resistance?
Several factors can lead to Botox resistance.
This can lead to reduced effectiveness or muscle atrophy, he says.
To avoid this, follow FDA guidelines and space treatmentsevery three to five months.
Incorrect dosing also significantly affects your response to Botox.
The number of units you get depends on the treatment area, facial anatomy, and desired results.
The rise of popular injectable clinics may also be a contributing factor.
This is not to say that these dont serve their purpose (i.e.
Ive seen patients take a year break and come back with some efficacy, says Frank.
Laying off the neuromodulators for several months can help to decrease antibodies.
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