How Long Does Botox Last? Your Complete NZ Guide
- Shea Ellis
- Nov 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 18
A New Zealand guide by Ellis & Jones: Christchurch • Hamilton • Timaru • Auckland
Anti-wrinkle injections (often referred to as Botox® or Dysport®) are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments in New Zealand — and one of the most common questions we hear at Ellis & Jones is:
How long does Botox actually last?
This guide explains everything you need to know, whether you're new to anti-wrinkle injections or looking to maximise your results.
How Long Does Botox Last?
For most clients, Botox lasts 3 to 4 months.
However, results vary depending on your metabolism, muscle strength, lifestyle, and treatment area. At Ellis & Jones, we tailor every plan to your facial movement to help achieve long-lasting, natural results.
When Will I See Results?
You’ll start to see softening in 3–7 days, with full results at 2 weeks.
This is when we ensure everything looks balanced and natural.
Why Does Botox Wear Off?
Botox works by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause expression lines.Over time, your body naturally metabolises the product and movement gradually returns.
This is normal — and why maintaining consistent treatments is key.
What Affects How Long Botox Lasts?
Muscle Strength
Stronger muscles (frown or masseters) may break down the product faster.
Metabolism
Fast metabolisms or high-intensity exercisers often metabolise the product sooner.
Treatment Areas
Crow’s feet: ~3 months
Forehead + frown: 3–4 months
Masseters: 4–6 months
Underarms: 4–9 months
Consistency of Treatment
Regular treatments help “train” the muscles, often extending longevity.
Most clients return every 3–4 months.
A consistent plan:
Keeps lines smooth
Prevents deeper wrinkles
Helps results last longer over time
Your nurse will recommend the best timing for you.
Does Botox Last Longer the More You Do It?
Yes — for many clients it does.Regular treatments weaken the muscle slightly, so it takes longer for full movement to return.
This is why long-term clients often enjoy smoother results for longer.
How to Make Botox Last Longer
Stay Consistent With Treatments
Skipping treatments allows muscle strength to fully return.
Reduce Facial Strain
Squinting, stress, or frowning can break down results faster.
Choose a Qualified Injector
Correct placement = better, longer-lasting results.
Protect Your Skin
SPF, hydration, healthy skin barrier.
Avoid Intense Exercise for 24 Hours
High heat + elevated heart rate can affect early settling.
Does Botox Stop Working Over Time?
No — not when injected correctly.If you feel it isn’t lasting, it’s often due to dosage, muscle strength, or lifestyle factors.
At Ellis & Jones, we adjust every treatment to your natural movement and goals.
Can You Combine Botox With Other Treatments?
Absolutely — this is how we achieve the most natural, glowing results.
Popular combinations:
Dermal fillers for structure
Skin Boosters / Profhilo® for hydration and firmness
Microneedling for texture
BBL / Moxi for clarity and pigmentation
LED therapy for healing and collagen
Botox smooths lines — the other treatments elevate overall skin quality.
How Long Botox Lasts by Treatment Area
Area | Duration |
Frown | 3–4 months |
Forehead | 3–4 months |
Crow’s Feet | 3 months |
Brow Lift | 3–4 months |
Lip Flip | 6–8 weeks |
Chin | 3 months |
Masseter Slimming | 4–6 months |
Underarms | 4–9 months |
Is Botox Safe?
Yes — when administered by qualified medical professionals.
Possible temporary effects include:
Redness
Small bumps
Mild headache (rare)
At Ellis & Jones, safety always comes first.
Botox at Ellis & Jones Christchurch & Hamilton
We specialise in soft, natural anti-wrinkle treatments — results that look refreshed, never frozen.
Clients choose us because we offer:
Qualified cosmetic nurses
Natural, subtle outcomes
Gentle, conservative dosing
Premium products
Four NZ clinic locations
A calm, professional experience
Book Your Anti-Wrinkle Appointment
Ready to smooth lines and refresh your look?
Book your anti-wrinkle consultation at Ellis & Jones in Christchurch, Hamilton, Timaru or Auckland.
Botox® is a prescription medicine for the treatment of frown lines , horizontal forehead lines and crow’s feet round the eyes. Botox® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Botox is right for you. If you have side effects, see your doctor. You will need to pay for Botox® and clinic fees will apply. For details on precautions & side effects consult your healthcare professional or the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) at www.medsafe.govt.nz . Botox® treatment lasts about 4 months and further courses of treatment may be necessary. Should only be administered by trained medical professionals. (contains botulinum toxin A 50,100 & 200 units) Allergan (NZ) Limited, Auckland.
Dysport® is a prescription medicine for the treatment of frown lines, horizontal forehead lines and crow’s fee round the eyes. Dysport has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor is Dysport is right for you. If you have side effects see your doctor. You will need to pay for Dysport, and clinic fees will apply. For details on precautions & side effects consult your healthcare professional or the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) at www.medsafe.govt.nz Dysport lasts about 4-6 months and further courses of treatment may be necessary. Should only be administered by trained medical professionals. Contains 500 units of clostridium botulinum Type A toxin. Galderma (NZ) Limited, Auckland.
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