BOTOX® FOR MIGRAINES
Discover Targeted Relief of Migraines with ALLOR in Auckland
What Are Migraine Headaches And How Common Are They?
Migraines are far more than just bad headaches. They are a complex neurological condition that affects around 1 in 7 people in worldwide, generally affecting those aged between 35 and 45 years. Women are three times more likely than men to be affected, often due to hormonal fluctuations.
Source: WHO: Headache Disorders – How common are headaches? (Q&A)
Migraine symptoms typically include:
-
Intense, throbbing pain (usually on one side of the head)
-
Nausea and/or vomiting
-
Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
-
Visual or sensory “aura” such as flashing lights or numbness (in some cases)
For some people, migraines are occasional and manageable. But for those living with chronic migraines, "defined as having 15 or more headache days per month for more than 3 months, with at least 8 of those days featuring migraine characteristics" the impact can be severe. These ongoing episodes often interfere with work, social life, and mental well-being.
Source: The Migraine Trust
Common migraine triggers include:
-
Hormonal changes
-
Stress and poor sleep
-
Certain foods and drinks (e.g. red wine, aged cheese, caffeine)
-
Muscle tension in the head, neck, and shoulders
-
Bright lights, loud sounds, or weather changes
Despite how common and debilitating migraines are, they are often under diagnosed and under treated. Many people spend years trying to manage symptoms with medication, trial and error, or simply “pushing through” the pain.
At ALLOR, we understand how life altering migraines can be, but there are treatment options that can help.
How Does Botox® Help with Chronic Migraine Headaches?
Botulinum toxin, more commonly known as Botox®, is a MedSafe approved treatment for chronic migraines in New Zealand, acting to decrease the frequency and severity of migraines.
The treatment works by reducing excessive muscle contractions, therefore blocking the transmission of pain signals in the brain.
This is achieved through a series of carefully placed injections that relax specific muscle groups in the head, neck and shoulders known to trigger migraines.
Step-by-Step: Your Botox® For Migraine Treatment at ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine
Before Your Treatment: How to Prepare
The following are general preparation guidelines commonly recommended before Botox® for migraine treatment. Your individual situation may vary, and you should always follow personalised advice provided during your initial consultation.
1. Please avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin, ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatories) for 24 hours before treatment to minimise bruising and swelling. If you take prescribed medications, these will be discussed during your initial consultation. Do not stop any prescribed medications unless advised by your prescribing doctor.
2. Arrive at your appointment with clean skin, your skin will also be cleansed before treatment. Arriving make-up free helps ensure a clean canvas and minimises the risk of infection.
3. Avoid facials, chemical peels, laser treatments, hair removal and microdermabrasion for at least one week beforehand and one week after. Active skincare ingredients such as retinoids (vitamin A/retinol), AHAs, and exfoliants are typically paused for at least three to five days beforehand, as these can increase skin sensitivity.
4. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your treatment to support healthy, hydrated skin.
5. If you have any active skin infections, cold sores, allergies or other concerns, please let us know before your appointment so these can be discussed and managed appropriately.
6. Schedule your treatment at least two weeks before any important events to allow time for settling and optimal results.
During Your Botox® For Migraine Treatment
1. Botulinum toxin anti-wrinkle injections are relatively quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes.
2. Once we’ve had your initial consultation and I’ve mapped out a treatment plan tailored to you, we will begin with a series of carefully placed injections into the specific muscles that play a role in triggering your migraines. The aim is to gently relax those overactive areas and reduce the tension contributing to your symptoms.
3. Some people may experience slight pain or a pinching sensation at the injection sites, but it is generally well-tolerated. If you are uncomfortable with the sensation of needles, topical numbing agent and distraction devices can be used on request to minimise discomfort.
4. We use Xeomin® primarily for its precision and purity. Dysport® and Botox® are available on request.
Immediately After Treatment: What You’ll Notice
1. There’s no downtime required - most people return to work or daily activities straight after. It is recommended however you avoid high intensity exercise, spa pools, saunas, lying on and rubbing your face for 48 hours after your treatment to ensure injected product remains in the precise areas it has been injected.
2. You may have mild redness or swelling at the injection sites, which fades quickly over the remainder of the day. I apply clean tinted SPF to exposed areas after your treatment to protect you from the sun and hide treated areas, so you can resume your day without looking like you have had anything done.
3. To ensure the best outcome, we provide you with clear aftercare instructions with a contact phone number and can recommend tailored skincare products to support your healing if desired. We also schedule a complimentary follow-up two weeks after your treatment to review your progress, answer any questions, and ensure you are happy with your results.
When Migraine Treatment Results Start to Show
1. Many patients see results from treatment in as little as one to three days. From there, they continue to develop, with peak results emerging at two weeks.
2. At your two-week follow-up, we assess how the treatment has settled. Occasionally, a small adjustment may be discussed to fine-tune results. If additional product is required, this is discussed openly, and any additional cost is explained before proceeding.
3. You can expect relief from migraine headaches for about three to four months with this treatment, however, the effectiveness can vary between patients depending on muscles involved and areas treated.
Migraine Treatment Cost
Every Botulinum Toxin treatment for migraines at ALLOR Cosmetic Clinic is carefully customised to your individual needs, ensuring the most effective and targeted relief.
Costs can vary between $400 - $1200 depending on the areas treated and the amount required.
If you would like to discuss exact costs or have other questions regarding your treatment, please feel free to book an initial consultation today.
WE’RE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU
Living with migraines can feel incredibly isolating, especially when it’s hard to find a treatment that truly helps. At ALLOR, we’re here to change that.
This page was created to offer clear, practical information about Botulinum Toxin treatments for people dealing with migraines. Whether you’ve been exploring treatment options, reading migraine support forums, or simply searching for more information, you’ve come to the right place.
We understand that migraines don’t just affect your head. They can impact your work, relationships, mental health and sense of control. That’s why we always take a personalised, caring approach, built around your symptoms and needs. By offering Botox® as a migraine treatment option, we aim to provide relief and improve quality of life for those suffering from chronic migraines.
If you’d like to know more about how Botox® might help, book now to schedule an initial consultation to explore your options with Dr. Heather at the ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine Clinic in Auckland.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Botox® help with chronic migraines?
Botox® reduces migraine frequency by calming overactive muscles and blocking the nerve signals that trigger pain. It helps break the cycle of tension and inflammation linked to chronic migraine.
Is Botulinum Toxin approved for migraines in New Zealand?
Yes. Botulinum Toxin is MedSafe-approved for the treatment of chronic migraines in New Zealand. It's often recommended when patients experience 15 or more headache days per month and haven’t responded well to other treatments.
Can I have Botox® if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. At ALLOR, we do not provide Botox® treatment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
This is a precaution because there is not enough safety data to confidently recommend botulinum toxin treatment during pregnancy or lactation. If you are planning pregnancy, pregnant, or breastfeeding, please let us know during your consultation so we can advise you safely and discuss timing.
What does the Botox® treatment involve?
The treatment involves a series of small injections into key areas of the head, neck, and shoulders. It’s typically completed in under 30 minutes and is well tolerated by most patients, with only mild discomfort.
When will I notice results from my Botulinum Toxin migraine treatment?
Some people start to notice an improvement within 3 days, though full effects usually appear by 2 weeks. Results build gradually and continue to improve after treatment.
How long does relief from migraines last?
Relief usually lasts around 3 to 4 months. Regular treatments at this interval help maintain results and prevent the return of chronic symptoms.
Are there any side effects with Botox® for migraines?
Most side effects are mild, such as slight bruising or temporary tenderness. Rarely, patients may notice neck stiffness or a mild headache after treatment, which typically resolves quickly.
How much does Botox® for migraines cost?
Pricing depends on the number of areas treated and the amount of product used and can be between $400 - $1200. At ALLOR, your treatment is personalised, and a consultation is the best way to receive an accurate quote.
Written by Dr. Heather Anderson, MBChB, BSc, FRNZCUC, PGDip Cosmetic Medicine, NZSCM | ALLOR Cosmetic Medicine, Auckland
Reviewed and updated: June 2026
Xeomin® (incobotulinum toxin) Prescription Medicine for the treatment of upper facial lines: glabellar frown lines, crow’s feet around the eyes, horizontal forehead lines. Xeomin® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Xeomin® is right for you (incobotulinum toxin A, purified Botulinum toxin type A 50 Units and 100 Units). For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Merz, Sydney. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland.
Dysport®, Prescription Medicine For the treatment of frown lines and crow’s feet around the eyes. Dysport® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Dysport is right for you. Botulinum toxin type A 300 or 500 Ipsen Units. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Galderma, Auckland.
Botox®, Prescription Medicine For the treatment of frown lines and crow’s feet around the eyes. Botox® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Botox is right for you. Botulinum toxin type A 50, 100, 200 Units. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Allergan, Auckland.