When Should I Start Getting Botox®?

Not very long ago, people only chose Botox or a similar cosmetic injectable once they actually developed a wrinkle. Today, though, more and more people are choosing preventive Botox. The idea is that by starting treatment now, they may be able to prevent furrows from developing in the first place. 

But preventive Botox isn’t right for everyone, and some experts argue that people are starting too young. 

If you want to consult with an expert about the right age to start Botox based on your specific cosmetic goals, talk with us. As specialists in Botox and other cosmetic injectables, Norman J. Pastorek, MD, and Janice Pastorek, BSN, RN, can work with you to develop a personalized plan. 

And when you’re ready to start Botox, we offer it at both of our offices: on Manhattan’s Upper East Side in New York City and in Madison, Connecticut. 

The rise — and risks — of preventive Botox

The old saying goes that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. But does that apply when it comes to wrinkles? 

It depends on who you ask. Some experts argue that starting to treat lines before they develop helps keep skin smooth and youthful-looking through the years. This can be particularly appealing to people with a family history of early wrinkles or deep lines. 

But other aesthetic professionals worry that starting Botox too young can lead to problems down the road.

Botox works by temporarily freezing the muscle causing the wrinkle. Let’s say you get forehead lines. Injecting Botox into your forehead can smooth those wrinkles by relaxing the muscles above your eyebrows. But as you get older, over-relaxing those muscles could cause your brows to droop, ultimately making you look older faster. 

The right time to start Botox

Because preventive Botox does come with risks (and cost), many experts recommend starting Botox only once your lines stay even when you relax that part of your face. This can be as early as the mid-20s for some people, but most won’t need Botox injections until their 30s or later. 

Talk with our team about your cosmetic goals and your family history of wrinkles. Based on how your parents and grandparents aged, along with your unique skin type, we can help you pinpoint the right time to start this treatment.

Whenever you’re ready to start Botox, the actual treatment process itself is quick and convenient. The injections take just minutes and don’t come with any downtime. 

The results from Botox usually last a few months. When you see the results begin to fade, you can return to our office for a touchup treatment. 

To talk with experts about the right age to start Botox based on your skin and your aesthetic goals, call either of our offices or book your appointment online today.