What are Neurotoxin Injections?

Neurotoxins FAQ

How long does Jeaveau® or Botox® take to work?

Botox® and other neuromodulators usually take a few days to start showing noticeable effects, with the full results taking effect 7-14 days after the injection.

During this time, the botulinum toxin gradually blocks nerve signals to the targeted muscles, causing them to relax and, in the process, smoothing the skin’s appearance by reducing wrinkles and fine lines. The precise onset varies from person to person—influenced by factors like your body’s metabolic rate, the area treated, and the amount of product used.

How long does Botox® last?

The effects of neuromodulators like Botox® and Dysport® typically last 3-4 months, at which point re-treatment is often necessary to maintain the desired appearance.

The newest injectable neurotoxin on the market is Daxxify, which is similar to existing neuromodulators in that it is used to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles. Unlike its predecessors, Daxxify is known for its longer-lasting effects compared to other botulinum toxin products. Typically, Daxxify lasts for about 6-9 months. Again, your personal results will be determined by factors such as the area treated, your metabolism, and the amount of product used.

What are the benefits of neuromodulators?

The benefits of Botox® and other neurotoxin treatments are many. They effectively reduce wrinkles, prevent dynamic lines, and deliver natural-looking results with a quick, downtime-free appointment.

• Reduction of wrinkles: Neuromodulators diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes (crow's feet), forehead, and between the eyebrows (frown lines).

• Prevention of dynamic wrinkles: By relaxing facial muscles, neurotoxin injections can prevent the formation of new dynamic wrinkles—those caused by repetitive facial expressions.

• Natural-looking results: Neuromodulators provide natural-looking results, which means you will still look like you—just a bit fresher.

• Safe & FDA-approved: Neurotoxin treatments are FDA-approved for cosmetic use and have a well-established safety record when administered by trained professionals.

• Quick procedure: The injection procedure is typically quick, often taking just a few minutes, and there is no downtime so you can return to your daily activities immediately after treatment.

• Long-lasting results: The effects of neuromodulators typically last for several months, providing youthful, refreshed skin for extended periods.

• Goes well with other injectables: Neuromodulators can be used with other treatments, like dermal fillers, to create a naturally refreshed, plump, and youthful look.

What is a unit of Botox®?

Botox® and other neurotoxins are measured in units, which measure the amount of botulinum present on a molecular level. The number of active neurotoxin molecules determines the product’s biological potency or effectiveness at paralyzing targeted muscles. 

Can you work out after Botox®?

Neurotoxins can sometimes migrate from the injection site and intended muscle or muscle groups. The possibility of product migration is highest within the first 24-48 hours post-injection. 

Desiree recommends waiting 24-48 hours after injections to do any workout that increases your heart rate to 130 BPM. This includes weight training, swimming, hot yoga, pilates, or yoga inversions like downward dog. In addition, spending time in saunas, hot tubs, tanning beds, or very hot baths and showers can further augment the risk of bruising, swelling, and product migration.

Because these activities increase your heart rate, they also increase the blood circulating in your body—elevating the chances of product migration, swelling, and bruising. That being said, doing light exercise 4 hours after your neurotoxin treatment is fine.

How long after Botox® can you lie down?

After receiving Botox® or other botulinum toxin injections, Desiree recommends staying upright for about 4 hours. If you have received facial botox, your head must remain upright—so no dental appointments, massages, or bending down for the 4 hours following your treatment. Waiting this time before bending or lying down helps prevent the product from migrating to different areas, which can cause unintended and undesired effects like drooping or asymmetry. 

Can Botox® be reversed?

Once Botox® or any other botulinum product is injected, its effects cannot be reversed. However, its effects are not permanent. The duration of Botox® effects varies from person to person but generally lasts 3-4 months. After this period, muscle activity gradually returns to normal as the body naturally breaks down and clears the toxin. Unfortunately, this means that the only way to undo a Botox® treatment is to wait the length of time it takes for its effects to dissipate. 

Can you get Botox® while breastfeeding?

There has been no evidence in clinical studies demonstrating that the neurotoxin used in injections enters the breast milk. Currently, botulinum toxin is classified as an FDA category C drug, which means that its safety profile for pregnant women has not yet been sufficiently evaluated. However, as a medical provider, Desiree always airs on the side of safety when it comes to Botox® and breastfeeding and suggests waiting until you are no longer breastfeeding to receive injectables.