What is Preventative Botox?

Preventative Botox is a safe injectable used to stop facial lines and wrinkles from appearing before they start. If injected before the lines begin to form, the highly regarded procedure can be extremely effective. In fact, many dermatologists believe that if a patient starts Botox treatments at an early age, they will require less Botox later on, as there will be fewer wrinkles to deal with.  

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Since the early 1990s, Botox (botulinum toxin) has been marketed as a fast, safe, and affordable method of preventing the visible signs of aging. The treatment targets dynamic wrinkles caused by facial muscle movements, such as:

  • Horizontal forehead lines
  • Wrinkles around the corners of the mouth
  • Wrinkles on the sides of the nose
  • Crow's feet around the eyes

Injecting preventative Botox into these muscles can help "train" a person's facial movements, preventing permanent wrinkles in these areas.

How Can Preventive Botox Help Fine Lines?

As the skin weakens over time, it becomes harder for it to bounce back from regular facial movements that cause fine lines, such as smiling, laughing, or furrowing your brow. Preventative Botox can reverse the formation of mild facial lines, preventing them from developing as the skin ages.    

Treatment typically involves a two-step process:

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  1. Using a topical product, such as retinol, to strengthen skin tone and stimulate collagen production.
  2. Injecting Botox to reduce the constricting of facial muscles, effectively preventing wrinkling of the overlying skin.

What Age Should You Start Getting Botox?

While most people don't usually start thinking about Botox until they are well into their 30s, the treatment is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in patients aged 18 or older. At the first sign of facial lines or wrinkles, anyone interested in preventative Botox should consult with a licensed dermatologist. Over time, wrinkles will remain, even when a person is not making a facial expression.  

Starting preventative Botox at an early age does not necessarily mean a person will need injectables forever. Since using Botox as a preventative method is fairly new, it is impossible to know when a person will start experiencing permanent wrinkles. However, as the treated skin adjusts to a new normal, it is highly likely that less Botox will be needed in future follow-up treatments.

Is It Possible to Be Too Young for Botox Prevention?

When administered by a trained professional, Botox is considered safe for most people. The age at the time of treatment does not increase potential side effects, which can include pain, bruising, or swelling at the injection site.

How to Know if Botox in Your 20s is Right for You

The first line of defense against skin damage is the regular use of sunscreen, moisturizers, and retinols. If you are following these safe sun habits and still noticing resting facial wrinkles, you may be a good candidate for exploring the use of preventative Botox treatments.

Book a Consultation Today

At Radiant Dermatology & Aesthetics, we have extensive experience treating patients with personalized care and innovative solutions. Contact us today to determine if preventative Botox is right for you, and let our compassionate team help you develop a treatment plan to maintain a healthy, youthful appearance.

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Photo Credit: pepperiko

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