Deciding when to start getting Botox is unique to everyone. If you are among the countless individuals trying to decide the best time to start pre-treating your potential wrinkles, you’re in good company.

More and more millennials are using Botox for preventative treatment instead of waiting to correct existing wrinkles. In fact, young people between the ages 20-39 accounted for 20% of Botox treatments in 2020.

If you’re interested in preventing the signs of aging, we’ve laid out what you need to know about Botox and when to consider adding it to your routine.

What is Botox

Botox is a brand name that refers to neuromodulators that paralyze specific facial muscles by injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin. These injections weaken and relax the muscles, which diminishes the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging.

These results typically last for 3-4 months, but they may last longer. Botox injections are commonly used on the forehead, crow’s feet, and around the eyebrows. In this article we will use “Botox” and “neuromodulators” interchangeably. Other common neuromodulators are Dysport, and Xeomin.

When to Start Getting Botox

Though there is no hard and fast rule on when to start getting Botox, experts say that the mid-20s to early 30s are a good time to start. Botox is often suggested during those years as a preventative measure.

In your 20s

Across the board, it’s rare to start getting Botox before your mid-20s simply because the need for it is still so low. If you don’t have smile or worry lines sticking around when your face is at rest, you likely don’t need to start Botox quite yet.

Because the right time to start depends more on the stage of your fine line and wrinkle development and less on your age, those who are genetically predisposed to wrinkles or have strong frown lines will be more likely to start getting Botox in their mid-20s.

When lines begin to appear and stick around, this is when preventative Botox and other neuromodulators can be beneficial. If you are expressive and begin seeing lines in your 20’s you may want to consider neuromodulators to prevent lines from becoming more permanent features on your face.

In your 30s

Though more people in their 20s are getting preventative Botox than ever before, it’s still common to wait until your early 30s.

This is when your skin starts to become thinner and less elastic and your wrinkles will begin to progress towards stage two. It is during stage two that your wrinkles always appear, even when your face is at rest.

At this stage, neuromodulators will, with time, begin to reverse the lines that have set in by preventing the repetitive facial expression that caused them in the first place, creating a smoother appearance.

Brow lifts are also a popular reason to begin Botox in your 30’s as the brow area begins to droop and eyelids can look heavy later in your 30’s Botox can help to lift the area and restore a more youthful, refreshed look.

Services to Maintain Results of Botox

If you choose to get Botox, you can maintain the treatment results with affordable services between your appointments.

PCA Peels

PCA peels treat fine lines and other signs of aging that may appear in between your Botox treatments. Whether you need an aggressive peel to address sun damage and aging or a gentler approach to brighten and boost your skin, we have options for you. These peels will leave your skin feeling hydrated and refreshed without redness.

Microdermabrasion

Rejuvenate your skin in between Botox appointments with a professional Microdermabrasion treatment. This exfoliation treatment will reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and pores. Microdermabrasion is a great way to lengthen the time between appointments without sacrificing your skin.