With the ongoing rise of the digital age and increased use of social media (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, etc.), we are constantly looking at images and videos of ourselves. On top of that, a majority of the content the younger generation (Gen Z) may be consuming is from influencers discussing their skincare routines, cosmetic procedures (plastic surgery and non-surgical) they may have gotten done or are considering getting done, and other anti-aging techniques. While Tiktok and Instagram are great tools for entertainment, gen z’s obsession with retinol, sunscreen, and other skincare products might not be as helpful as the beauty industry would like them to think.
In a turn of events, some gen zers are noticing that all of these skin care tips and tricks may be making Generation Z look older than millennials. As a result of this, the trend of “Baby Botox” has become more popular amongst gen zers in an attempt to not look older than they are in their early 20s and preserve their young skin.
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What is “Baby Botox” or Preventative Botox?
Baby Botox involves using Botox in facial areas where wrinkles are likely to form with age, like between the eyes (glabellar), the forehead, and the corners of the eyes (crow’s feet). Botox or baby Botox can be used to relax the muscles that cause skin wrinkling, helping prevent wrinkle lines before they develop. People in their 20s or approaching their 30s sometimes get Botox as infrequently as once a year to delay permanent wrinkling before it occurs. With a procedure like this, experts say the goal is never to overfill or over freeze the area, but to prevent any fine lines that may appear and cause an insecurity.
What are the Advantages and Potential Downsides of this Cosmetic Procedure?
The advantage of Botox, especially for younger individuals, is the control over lines in areas like between the eyes, the forehead, and the corners of the eyes. Even annual Botox treatments can significantly reduce or even prevent wrinkling. Botox relaxes muscles, reduces skin movement , maintaining collagen strength and reducing wrinkle formation. However, the cost is a major downside, as baby Botox treatments can be an investment. Also, there may be effects like bruising or much less commonly eyebrow drooping or even more rare , eyelid heaviness, which can last from a week to over a month.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox and similar neurotoxins (like Xeomin, Dysport, Daxify, and Jeveau) block the nerves’ ability to cause muscle movement. This localized effect reduces muscle movement and skin wrinkling around the injection area.
Botox is great for more fine lines whereas fillers are used to restore lost volume and to contour the face. Most patients in their early 20s will only require micro-botox treatments to achieve the look of a younger age.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Gen Z and Younger Generations Getting ‘Baby Botox’ Injections?
The main risks include local bruising or, less commonly, relaxation of unintended muscles. In the forehead, an undesired effect could be reduced eyebrow movement or eyelid heaviness (ptosis). These side effects, if they occur, typically wear off faster than the Botox’s active period but can sometimes last for months. Experienced injectors have a much less risk of this occurring. Preventative Botox is a choice, not a recommendation, for temporary wrinkle treatment. Generally safe, Botox injectables effects generally last up to 3 months, act locally, and have no common permanent side effects.
Are There Other Options If I’m Not Ready for Filler or Botox Injections?
If injectable aesthetic treatments (like botox and fillers) aren’t for you just yet, we recommend visiting a dermatologist for a full evaluation of your skin . If you are opting for a more minimally invasive enhancement such as micro needling or chemical peels then visiting a dedicated aesthetic medical center such as VERVE Medical Cosmetics is also a good choice .
