In recent years, there has been a significant increase in younger people seeking“preventative” anti-aging procedures. Youthful appearances are still upheld as the prevailing beauty standard and in many cases, aging tends to be viewed as undesirable, despite it being associated with qualities that are more than skin deep, such as wisdom and experiences that will hopefully result in a few laughter lines along the way.
The media is saturated with images of young, conventionally attractive people (frequently viewed through a filter). Especially in more individualistic countries where there is less intergenerational contact and more negative views on aging it’s little wonder that “baby Botox” (people aged between 20 and 29) has risen by 32% since 2010. These tend to be people who grew up online, with minimal interaction with older generations.
Young People and Botox: What Are the Risks?
Botox, otherwise known by its brand name botulinum toxin, is a neurotoxin designed to block a particular neurotransmitter (acetylcholine) causing intentional muscle paralysis to reduce the natural creases in our faces when we make certain expressions.
Despite evidence for the efficacy of Botox on existing wrinkles, little research is currently known about its use for preventative anti-aging. Additionally, low-dose Botox from a relatively early age could require costly repeat treatments as upkeep, which is not always affordable or practical.
Additionally there is the argument that too much Botox within a relatively short span of time could have adverse aging effects: facial muscles naturally become weaker as you age, meaning that repeated paralysis of certain facial muscles could speed up this process.
Body Image
Developing positive self esteem and self worth is important, especially for younger people who are likely to develop issues around body image. If this is something you are struggling with, it’s more important to address your mental and emotional health first with support from a trained and licensed counselor or therapist.
Personal appearance has a strong connection to how we feel about ourselves, but it can be possible to use cosmetic procedures and products without negative connotations. Ideally, it should be a choice, rather than something we feel pushed into; a choice that enhances our natural confidence, instead of being viewed as a “cure” for poor body image.
Is Botox Right for Me?
Practitioners agree it’s generally better to use botox when wrinkles appear, rather than attempt to treat an issue which has yet to present itself. In the meantime, there are a number of ways to look after the skin as it ages, such as:
- Staying hydrated
- Using sunscreen
- Introducing anti-aging products like vitamin C (best used in the morning) and retinol (best used at night, but not with vitamin C, exfoliants like AHA or when slugging, as these can cause irritation).
- Reducing or cutting out alcohol (this can inhibit your skin’s production of collagen)
- Quitting smoking
Like any other cosmetic procedure, Botox injections should be administered by a board-certified professional practitioner who should give you an in-depth consultation prior to treatment. Services for botox in Hartland MI are easily available and it’s important to research and choose a reputable clinic or practitioner that suits your specific needs. It’s also essential to be open and honest about any medical conditions you may have, as well as discuss potential risks and side effects. Factors such as pregnancy or your current state of health (mental, emotional, or physical) could mean that they are unsafe for you at this time.
If you are interested in getting Botox, The Luxe Room has clinics based across the Midwest offering a range of cosmetic treatments to help enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence.
