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Botox (a form of Botulinum Toxin Type A) is considered one of the most frequently performed cosmetic procedures in the United States. In fact, research shows that between 2000 and 2020, the number of Botulinum Toxin Type A injections increase by 459%. That includes injections to both treat existing cosmetic concerns and preventative Botox injections.

What is Preventative Botox?

Preventative Botox is a form of Botulinum Toxin used to prevent specific cosmetic concerns rather than treat them. Most commonly, preventative Botox is used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles for those in their 20s and 30s.

Preventative Botox is different from traditional Botox in one significant way: it is used to prevent wrinkles rather than treat them. For example, someone in their 20s or 30s may decide to get preventative Botox in their forehead to prevent the appearance of wrinkles in that area.

Since preventative Botox is administered to prevent wrinkles rather than treat them, the amount of Botulinum Toxin used in a single area or muscle is less than what is used to treat existing wrinkles.

Millennials are Taking Advantage of Preventative Botox

Traditional Botox has been used for years to help men and women achieve the youthful look they desire. But with the rise of preventative Botox, more and more people are opting to have Botox injected into the areas of their faces that they want to keep looking young instead of waiting for the appearance of aging to appear.

Millennials are notorious for their “prevent” rather than “react” mentality. This is especially true when it comes to their health and well-being. As a result, more millennials are taking advantage of preventative Botox to keep their skin looking young for longer.

The question becomes just how useful is preventative Botox? While the use of Botox for treating existing fine lines and wrinkles is a safe, FDA-approved procedure, it’s not yet been FDA-approved to prevent the formation of wrinkles entirely.

Is Preventative Botox Safe?

If it’s not FDA-approved to prevent wrinkles and fine lines from forming, is preventative Botox considered safe? Yes – the general use of Botox is deemed to be safe to treat various conditions, both for medical and cosmetic use.

What Age is Considered Ideal for Preventative Botox?

According to the FDA, the use of Botox is considered safe for those ages 18 and up. However, it’s also been approved for safe use on those 12 years of age for treating eye muscle problems, such as the abnormal spasm of the eyelids.

Are There Risks Associated with Preventative Botox?

Botox for preventative purposes poses a much lower risk of adverse effects than the treatment of existing wrinkles and fine lines. This is partly due to the lower amount of Botulinum Toxin used for preventative purposes.          

However, as with any medical procedure, it’s possible to react to preventative Botox negatively.           

This can include side effects such as headaches, muscle weakness, or redness at the injection site. These side effects are temporary and typically mild in nature.

More severe side effects from preventative Botox are possible but very rare. They include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of strength/muscle weakness across the entire body
• double vision
• Hoarseness/change/loss of voice
• Trouble speaking
• Loss of bladder control

While these effects are rare, you should still discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor.

Is Preventative Botox Right for You?

There are many reasons why you may be considering preventative Botox. Whatever they may be, it’s essential to educate yourself on the process thoroughly and what it may be able to do for you.Have questions regarding preventative Botox? Contact us today, and we’ll get them answered!