A common misconception about Botox® is that wrinkles get worse if you stop using it, but thankfully, it is not true! Here, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Emily J. Kirby, Founder and Director of Kalos Medical Spa, explains how Botox works, what happens when you stop using it, and why it is a safe, effective option for maintaining a refreshed appearance.
How Botox works
Neuromodulators like Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify temporarily relax the facial muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles, which are the lines that develop after repeated expressions like smiling, frowning, or squinting.
The expert injectors at Kalos Medical Spa place Botox injections in precise, anatomical locations to soften these movements, smoothing existing wrinkles and delaying the formation of new lines. Botox and Dysport results typically last about three to four months, and Daxxify results last up to five or six months.
“The staff at Kalos Med Spa @ Kirby Plastic Surgery are exceptional! I always know that I am in great hands with these ladies. A shout out to Mari today for her gentle touch with my Botox treatment. She always explains everything and is so sweet. I always feel comfortable and confident in her hands.”
—5-star Google Review
What happens when you stop Botox
If you stop using Botox, your wrinkles will not worsen. Once the effects of the tox neuromodulator wear off, your muscles gradually resume their normal activity and appearance, and your skin returns to its pre-treatment appearance. However, because Botox helps prevent wrinkles from deepening, when you stop treatments, you lose the preventative benefits. Wrinkles may appear more prominent simply because they have had more time to naturally develop since your last treatment—not because Botox made them worse.
“I had an amazing experience at Kalos Med Spa! From the moment I walked in, Courtney at the front desk made me feel welcome and comfortable. My appointment with Delaney was just as great. She took the time to explain every step of the Botox process, which really put me at ease as a first-timer. The entire team was friendly, professional, and attentive. Highly recommend Kalos Med Spa for anyone considering Botox or other treatments!”
—5-star Google review
Some patients feel like their wrinkles are more obvious if they pause treatment because they are used to seeing smooth skin, especially if they have been consistent with treatments for a while.
Botox wears off gradually and does not cause any permanent changes to your skin.
Is Botox safe for long-term use?
Absolutely. Botox has been studied for decades and is FDA-approved for several uses, both aesthetic and medical. Long-term use of Botox-type injectables is safe when administered by experienced medical injectors.
Injectable treatments at our Fort Worth medical spa are performed by our highly trained Physician Assistants, Marianita Vela and Carolyn Quillin, and our Nurse Practitioner (DNP), Delaney, who work closely with Dr. Kirby to ensure you receive outstanding care and outcomes.
“From the moment I walked in, the staff and providers were amazing. So very attentive and knowledgeable. Very professional and yet welcoming! Carolyn Q, P.A. did my botox. It was my first experience. I felt comfortable and prepared and she did an amazing job! I love my new look and I love that my experience was so positive. As a nurse myself, I appreciate the attention to detail and my results speak for themselves!”
—5-star Google Review
Why might someone stop getting Botox?
The top reasons to pause Botox treatments include pregnancy, breastfeeding, or an upcoming facial procedure:
- Pregnancy & post-partum: Botox has not been tested to ensure safety during pregnancy. Some mothers choose to delay their treatments post-partum while breastfeeding, as well, although updated research shows that Botox may be safe while breastfeeding.
- Before a consultation for surgery: If you are planning to have a facial procedure, Dr. Kirby recommends being Botox-free for the consultation so she can accurately assess your natural facial structure and underlying musculature before making recommendations. This is especially important for Fort Worth brow lift patients, as neuromodulators can elevate your natural brow position.
You may also decide to pause Botox treatment if your aesthetic preferences change. If you decide to resume treatments later, you can typically expect the same smooth, natural-looking effects as before.
Find a Fort Worth medspa you can trust
Our specialists are eager to meet with you if you are considering Botox for the first time or looking to maintain your results. Our medical aesthetic experts also provide guidance on Botox alternatives if you would like to change your anti-aging approach. Call or text (817) 292-4200 or fill out our online form to book your consultation at Kalos Medical Spa in Fort Worth!
References »
Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006-. Botulin A. [Updated 2024 Sep 15].