Can you get Botox while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. Botox and other neuromodulators are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There is no evidence of harm, but there are also no safety studies, and cosmetic treatment is never urgent. Fillers are also deferred. Facials, most peels and good skincare are fine, and your consultation can plan treatments for after.
This is one of the few absolute rules in cosmetic dermatology. No reputable injector treats pregnant or nursing patients with neuromodulators or fillers, because the small theoretical risk is not worth it for an elective procedure.
What you can do in the meantime
- Medical facials and gentle peels with our aesthetician Adrianne
- Pregnancy-safe skincare, including mineral sunscreen and azelaic acid for melasma
- A consultation now, so a plan is ready for when you are cleared
Many patients also find that melasma and skin changes from pregnancy need attention afterward. Dr. Darvish can help with that, too.
Related
More about botox & wrinkle relaxers
How long does Botox last?
Botox typically lasts three to four months. Results begin two to three days after treatment, peak at about two weeks, and fade gradually as the treated muscle regains movement. Duration varies with dose, the area treated, your metabolism and how expressive you are. Daxxify, a newer neuromodulator, lasts a median of six months. Read more
How much does Botox cost in Los Angeles?
In Los Angeles, Botox is usually priced per unit, and a typical treatment of the frown lines, forehead or crow's feet uses 10 to 30 units per area. Total cost depends on how many areas you treat and the dose your muscles need. Skinpeccable gives you an exact, all-in quote at a complimentary consultation, with no obligation to book. Read more
What is the difference between Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau?
All four are botulinum toxin type A and work the same way. Dysport spreads slightly more and may start a day sooner, which suits larger areas like the forehead. Xeomin has no accessory proteins, useful for patients who have developed resistance. Jeuveau was developed purely for cosmetic use and is often priced lower. Botox has the longest track record. Results and duration are similar. Read more
Does Botox hurt?
Botox injections cause only brief, mild discomfort, usually described as a small pinch that lasts a second. The needle is very fine and each injection takes a moment. No numbing is needed, though ice is available. The whole treatment takes about ten minutes and you can go straight back to your day. Read more
How many units of Botox do I need?
Typical Botox dosing is about 20 units for the frown lines between the brows, 10 to 20 units for the forehead, and 6 to 12 units per side for crow's feet, so a full upper face often uses 40 to 60 units. Men and patients with strong muscles need more. The right number is set by examining how your muscles move, not by a menu. Read more
Will Botox make me look frozen?
Not when it is dosed and placed correctly. A frozen look comes from over-treating the forehead or treating muscles that should keep moving. Skilled injectors relax the muscles that crease the skin while preserving the ones that give you expression. The goal is to look rested, not different. Read more
What age should you start Botox?
There is no right age. Most patients start between their late twenties and early forties, when expression lines begin to stay visible at rest. Starting earlier, sometimes called preventive Botox, can keep lines from etching in, but it is only worthwhile if you already have strong expression lines when you move. A consultation tells you whether it would help you yet. Read more
What should you not do after Botox?
For the first four hours after Botox, stay upright, do not rub or massage the treated area, and skip strenuous exercise, saunas and alcohol for the rest of the day. Avoid facials, massages and tight hats or headbands for 24 hours. Normal activities, makeup and washing your face gently are fine right away. Read more