Botox around the eyes (for crow's feet) typically lasts 3 to 4 months, as the muscles in this active area cause the effects to wear off more quickly than in other areas, requiring repeat injections to maintain smoothness. Full results usually appear within 7-14 days, and while effects can sometimes be extended with regular treatments as muscles "train," you'll generally need touch-ups every few months.
Botox® injections improve appearance by relaxing muscles that cause wrinkles. These injections also treat medical conditions, including migraines, hyperhidrosis, overactive bladder and eye problems. To maintain results, treatments should be repeated every three to six months.
The decision to get Botox injections for under-eye wrinkles is a personal one and depends on individual factors and goals. Botox is a safe and effective cosmetic treatment for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eye area. It can provide a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Most people only experience mild and temporary side effects after under-eye Botox. These include: Swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection area. Bruising.
Age is a key factor when considering Botox, but there is a diverse range of opinions among experts regarding the “right” age to start treatment. While some doctors suggest starting as early as the 20s for preventive measures, others recommend waiting until fine lines and wrinkles appear, which can be in the 30s or 40s.
It is not uncommon, however, for patients in their 20s to begin receiving injections, especially those whose genetics may cause them to develop fine lines and wrinkles early on, as it can serve as a form of prevention. When it comes to whether a person can be too old for Botox, though, there is no limit.
Under-eye: 8 units
Results do suggest that 8 units of Botox cosmetic injections can reduce wrinkles and bagginess, but intense side effects may occur. And contrary to popular belief, Botox is not capable of making unwanted dark circles vanish.
The riskiest areas for Botox involve locations with crucial blood vessels and delicate muscles, primarily the glabella (between eyebrows) due to arteries that can cause blindness if blocked, the forehead/brow area risking eyelid droop (ptosis) or unnatural brow shapes, and the perioral region (mouth area), where poor placement can affect speech, smiles, or cause puckering. The masseter muscle (jaw) and neck (platysmal bands) are also sensitive, potentially causing chewing difficulty or swallowing issues with improper technique, requiring expertise to avoid complications like necrosis or paralysis.
Gen Z is saying "no" to Botox (or "notox") due to a desire for authenticity, a fear of the unnatural "Instagram Face," concerns about long-term risks, high costs, and a shift towards preventative, natural skincare and wellness, influenced by social media showing both the hype and potential negative outcomes of injectables. They prefer embracing individuality and investing in skin health through peptides, diet, and energy-based treatments, rather than relying on neurotoxins for "prejuvenation".
Both Botox and Fillers work perfectly fine to rejuvenate the under the eye. But fillers are more effective in treating undereye bags. Derma fillers work by filling in the hollow areas around the bags, making them less noticeable right away.
Botox can help mild under-eye concerns caused by muscle activity, such as wrinkles or tension that exaggerate puffiness. However, Botox does not treat true eye bags caused by fat protrusion or loose skin and may worsen their appearance in some cases.
The first thing you'll notice when you stop getting Botox is a gradual return of wrinkles and fine lines. This process usually takes several months, as the muscles slowly regain their strength and the skin settles back into its natural state.
Although under-eye Botox can be a quick and effective treatment, it usually only lasts three to four months. After that point, you will need another injection to maintain the results. That makes it time-consuming and expensive if you're looking for a long-term solution.
The "Botox Rule of 3" isn't one single rule but refers to key guidelines: 3 areas (forehead, frown lines, crow's feet are common), waiting at least 3 months between treatments to prevent resistance and maintain results, and a 3-to-5 day period for results to fully appear after the 3-to-4 month duration of the treatment. Key post-injection rules include avoiding bending/lying down for 4 hours and other treatments for 14 days.
Because Botox is a neurotoxin, it's capable of freezing muscles that are overly tight or spasming. However, if the injection is not precise, you might experience facial weakness and drooping caused by other facial muscles becoming paralyzed.
After 10 years of regular Botox, you generally look younger with smoother, brighter skin and significantly fewer deep wrinkles because the muscles have been trained not to frown, but you might experience subtle muscle weakening, less facial expression (which some find positive), and potentially thinner skin or more visible veins in some areas, while the skin remains refreshed and well-maintained.
The Signs of Botox
The best age to have Botox is also partly dependent on your age. Others start treatments in their late 20s or early 30s, to stave off fine lines before they become deep-set, whereas some don't wait until their 40s or 50s to do so.
Laser skin resurfacing is a treatment that tackles many issues of the face, such as wrinkles, age spots, acne, and signs of sun damage. A laser is used to gently strip the surface of the skin by layer. Once the outer layer of skin is removed, it allows healthier, younger-looking skin to grow.
The "Botox 4-hour rule" means you should stay upright and avoid pressure or lying down for at least four hours after injections to prevent the neurotoxin from migrating from the treated muscles to unintended areas, which can cause side effects like drooping or uneven results. This helps the Botox settle precisely where it's needed for optimal wrinkle-smoothing effects, so avoid bending, rubbing, or strenuous activity during this critical period.
Forehead: Your brow or eyelid may droop. Glabellar: Patients are at risk of eyelid ptosis. Periorbital region: Botox around the eyes, if not properly done, can give you muscle weakness. Bunny line area: Can give you an uneven smile.
Average Botox Treatment Cost: A standard Botox cosmetic treatment involves 20 to 40 units, translating to a cost between $325 and $600.
A good price to pay for Botox typically ranges from $10 to $20 per unit, but the total cost depends on how many units you need. Most people require 20 to 60 units for common treatment areas like forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines.
Botox is a popular choice for reducing wrinkles, but it might not be the best option for under-eye concerns. While it can temporarily smooth out fine lines, it doesn't address the underlying issues causing under-eye bags, dark circles, and hollowness.
However, one of the most common complications of botulinum toxin injection is ptosis of upper portion of the eyelid. This is caused by diffusion of the toxin through the orbital septum, where it affects the upper portion of the eyelid levator muscle.