As one of the most popular cosmetic treatments today, Botox is also enjoying an expanding demographic. The number of 20-somethings seeking Botox increased by eight percent between 2011 and 2012, and as many as 30 percent of all Botox users today may be in their 20s. Why the sudden interest in Botox among the younger set? Preventative care may be a large part of the equation.
Early Signs of Aging
Some patients in their mid to late 20s may begin to see the early, telltale signs that they are getting older. Creases may begin to form across the forehead and fine lines known as “crow’s feet” may start to appear in the outer corners of the eyes. Botox injections can relax those early lines, warding off symptoms of aging for as long as possible.
Botox is a solution containing trace amounts of botulinum, which relaxes the facial muscles that lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. It is particularly effective on horizontal lines across the forehead, vertical lines between the eyebrows (frown lines) and crow’s feet in the outer corners of the eyes. A Botox injection can last up to four months before a touch-up treatment is needed.
For younger women that are already seeing the early signs of aging, Botox can be an economical, minimally-invasive way to keep those facial creases at bay. As one of the most widely performed cosmetic procedures in the country, it is also considered relatively safe. In addition, it is fairly easy to find a cosmetic doctor who performs Botox injections, due to its high demand.
Preventing the Inevitable
Some younger patients also seek Botox injections as a preventative measure for fine lines and wrinkles. Some cosmetic surgeons believe that by regularly relaxing facial muscles early in the process, lines will take longer to form. When wrinkles do finally appear, they may be less severe than they would be without Botox injections.
While there is not much clinical evidence to prove this point currently, it may primarily be due to the fact that few patients in their 20s were getting Botox injections just a few short years ago. As younger patients begin tuning into the advantages of early Botox treatments, more evidence may arise indicating the benefits of the practice.
Tabitha Carnevale RN,MSN,NP offers Botox injections to patients of all ages at Incredible Veins, Skin & Body. To learn more about this treatment, or other anti-aging options, contact Tabitha at 818-423-5828.