Why would Botox not work on someone?

Author: Theresa Waters  |  Last update: Thursday, May 15, 2025

BOTOX resistance is a situation in which a patient either has built up antibodies against the botulinum toxin, or happens to metabolize the BOTOX drug exceptionally quickly. As a result, for these patients BOTOX injections provide underwhelming results, a very short-lived effect, or no effect at all.

Why does Botox not work for some people?

If Botox is not working for you, you may have developed Botox resistance. Immunity to Botox happens when the immune system develops antibodies that neutralize Botox proteins, rendering them ineffective. If you are immune to Botox, the drug will have partial to no paralyzing effect on your treated muscles.

Why am I not seeing results with Botox?

Some of the most common ones involve not getting enough Botox units for your skin issue, Botox not being injected correctly, or it could also be that some wrinkles are at a certain depth and could only be corrected so much.

What are the options when Botox doesn't work?

Thankfully, there are multiple alternatives to Botox you can use if aren't responding. Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau are the more common ones. Daxxify is a newer neuromodulator that is supposed to last a bit longer but not widely available at this point.

What causes resistance to Botox?

Botox resistance or Botox immunity is when a patient's immune system develops antibodies that neutralize the active molecule in the injectable – botulinum toxin type A. Upon injection, the antibodies stick to the molecule before it has a chance to act on the nerve and block nerve signals to the target muscle.

Is Your Botox Not Working? This May Be Why

Can your face become immune to Botox?

Though some patients become completely immune to Botox, most people who develop a resistance will typically still experience its effects, they will just be less noticeable and shorter-lasting.

What is the failure rate of Botox?

This is an effective, well-tolerated treatment6 requiring repeat injections every 6–9 months. However, the failure rate varies from 6% to 32% depending on the studies, and increases over time.

What is stronger than Botox?

Daxxify (daxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm) is the most recently approved injectable Botox alternative. It's approved to treat frown lines and neck spasms. In a clinical study, Daxxify improved the appearance of frown lines better than Botox. The biggest differentiator of Daxxify is that it can last longer than Botox.

Why has my Botox only lasted a month?

Your physical activity level – Proteins needs time to get into the muscles after they are injected. The facial expressions made while working out could make your muscles contract much faster and cause the Botox to wear off.

What do celebrities use instead of Botox?

Celebrities often pick alternatives like Dysport, Xeomin, and Juvederm. These fillers add volume or reduce wrinkles differently than Botox. They're popular for their varying effects and durations.

What can ruin Botox?

7 Things Not to Do After Botox
  • Rubbing Your Face. ...
  • Sun and Heat Exposure. ...
  • Intense Exercise. ...
  • Taking Blood Thinners. ...
  • Alcohol Consumption. ...
  • Washing Your Face With Soap. ...
  • Applying Topical Products.

Why are my 11 lines still there after Botox?

For instance, if your forehead furrows smoothed out, but your “11” lines are still visible, you may need a touch-up with more units of Botox. Or, we may recommend fillers to resolve the problem. Your two-week evaluation is part of your initial Botox treatment.

Is Dysport better than Botox?

When comparing the efficacy of Dysport and Botox, much depends on personal preference. Both have proven effective in diminishing wrinkles and fine lines. Some individuals might appreciate Dysport's swifter action, while others might gravitate towards the precision Botox offers.

Why does Botox look bad on some people?

Some people show telltale signs of improper Botox injection. They appear as though their natural facial expressions have been inhibited, making them look frozen. A bad Botox job can even cause a person's face to look asymmetrical. Botox, being a powerful chemical, must be administered with utmost caution.

What to use instead of Botox?

10 BOTOX® Alternatives for Smoother, Firmer Skin
  • Cosmetic Acupuncture. ...
  • Microneedling. ...
  • Chemical Peels. ...
  • Laser Therapy. ...
  • Cryotherapy. ...
  • Facial Creams. ...
  • Neuropeptides. ...
  • Face Patches.

Is it possible for Botox to not work?

BOTOX resistance is a situation in which a patient either has built up antibodies against the botulinum toxin, or happens to metabolize the BOTOX drug exceptionally quickly. As a result, for these patients BOTOX injections provide underwhelming results, a very short-lived effect, or no effect at all.

What makes Botox wear off quicker?

Identifying Factors That Shorten Botox Longevity

Metabolism, muscle activity, and lifestyle choices are key factors that can shorten Botox longevity.

Can Botox wear off in 4 weeks?

Botox naturally wears off in 8-16 weeks depending on where it's injected. In high movement areas or areas with lower doses is wears off faster. In areas of high, concentrated doses, or low movement, it wears off slower.

What tightens the skin better than Botox?

Bottom line: Laser resurfacing can tighten skin, usually better than any other skin-tightening procedure.

What is the new treatment instead of Botox?

DAXXIFY is the newest available Neuromodulator. The ones that have been available previously include Dysport, Jeuveau, Botox, and Xeomin. DAXXIFY helps to reduce wrinkles by administering a small dose of botulinum toxin into the underlying muscles.

Is it possible for Dysport not to work?

Either it was not placed properly in the muscle, not enough was used, or you are immune. Some people require more than others, but actual immunity is extremely rare. In the vast majority of cases, the problem is failure to place the Dysport into the muscle properly . . . the target was missed.

How many years does Botox take off of you?

The effects of Botox injections are temporary, lasting only about three to four months.

How likely does Botox go wrong?

Botox injections are usually safe when you're under the care of a licensed and skilled health care provider. The procedure can result in unwanted results or even cause harm if it's given incorrectly. Possible side effects and unwanted results include: Pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site.

Can Botox affect your heart?

Most Botox side effects are generally mild and temporary. Rare but serious side effects, such as heart problems or difficulty breathing, are also possible. When they happen, they're often linked to the medication spreading to other parts of the body.

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