- The average Botox session costs over $400 and lasts around four months.
- Some people's Botox may fade faster due to a fast metabolism or working out.
- A dermatologist said zinc supplements, higher doses, and switching brands can help prolong the effects.
At around $466 per session, Botox can get expensive. The average treatment lasts around four months, which can add up to around $2,000 a year in injection costs, according to Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, a dermatologist practicing in New York City.
But for some, the results of Botox fade faster than expected. Some people on social media have reported their Botox wearing off faster when they exercise or have a high metabolism, claiming that the skin-smoothing effects only lasted about a month.
Murphy-Rose told Insider that while she's seen the "very rare patient metabolize Botox within 4-8 weeks," it's not the norm. Still, if you notice your Botox fading after only two months, there are a few things you can try.
Having a fast metabolism or working out can have an effect
First things first: Murphy-Rose said that yes, it's possible for a faster metabolism or more exercise to reduce how long Botox lasts.
"Muscles that are used more frequently likely will break down Botox faster than others," she said.
But in general, having a fast metabolism doesn't necessarily mean your Botox won't last long. "It is just one factor contributing to the rate at which you break down Botox," she said.
Zinc supplements can make Botox last longer
If you want to make your Botox last longer, Murphy-Rose suggested taking a zinc supplement, because botulinum toxin requires zinc to function. In one small study, most participants who took 50mg of zinc and 3,000 PU of phytase (an enzyme) saw a 30% increase in how long their Botox lasted.
It's not guaranteed to work, but given the other health benefits of zinc like improved mood and memory, it doesn't hurt to try. Murphy-Rose recommended asking your primary care doctor about taking the supplements beforehand.
Higher doses or different brands may last longer, but it'll cost more
While saving money is usually the main concern with Botox not lasting as long, Murphy-Rose did say that higher doses (which are more expensive) will prolong treatments.
She also said that switching to a different neuromodulator brand, such as Dysport or Xeomin, can help. Daxxify, for example, is marketed as longer-lasting than Botox due to its different formulation but is also more expensive.