Since its approval by the FDA in 2002, Botox has become a popular treatment for wrinkles and aging skin. 

But does Botox only work on older people? Recent studies suggest that this isn’t the case – Botox can also be effective for younger patients experiencing dynamic wrinkles, as well as for those who want to take preventative measures for keeping early signs of aging at bay. 

Keep reading to learn more about how Botox works and who might benefit from treatment.

Botox: Cosmetic Uses and Beyond

Botox is the most well-known injectable neuromodulator.  It is a form of botulinum toxin that relaxes muscles and helps minimize the appearance of dynamic wrinkles brought on by frequent muscle activity.

Although Botox was initially created to treat medical problems (including cerebral palsy), it has since been approved by the FDA to address cosmetic concerns such as crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead lines.   

Beyond its cosmetic uses, an injection of Botox also has off-label uses, such as: 

• Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating
• Strabismus or lazy eye 
• Urinary incontinence 
• Blepharospasm or chronic eyelid twitching  
• Neck spasms or cervical dystonia
• Chronic migraines 
• Vaginismus 
• Other types of muscle spasms

What’s the Ideal Age to Get Botox Treatment?

Your skin creases whenever you speak, sneeze, frown, or make other facial expressions. Wrinkles develop over time if your facial muscles consistently contract, especially in the same area/s. 

For most people, the earliest wrinkles typically appear on the forehead or the area in between the brows.

So, what’s the best age to get Botox? Well, the answer varies from patient to patient. 

Botox injections are approved for patients aged 18 years and above. However, most people start getting Botox as soon as they notice fine lines and wrinkles forming, so some patients start getting it in their mid-30’s. 

Older patients also benefit from Botox since an injection of botox (or two) can still improve the appearance of existing wrinkles and prevent them from deepening further.

Now, how about for younger patients? Well, some people with particularly strong facial muscles can start developing early signs of aging as early as their mid-20’s, so they are also ideal candidates for Botox treatments. 

Preserving Youth With Prejuvenation

Prejuvenation is a term that describes the practice of using certain aesthetic treatments to prevent the early signs of aging – or to keep one’s youthful looks longer. Today, many young patients resort to prejuvenation treatments like preventative Botox and filler to preserve their youthful appearance.

In this case, treatment providers encourage patients to start treatments early on as needed. Addressing the formation of fine lines and wrinkles early can prevent them from deepening over the years.

So, if you’re starting to notice wrinkles and fine lines on your face, remember to see a trained and certified injector so they can develop the right treatment plan for you. 

Our qualified providers here at Dr. Chow’s Rejuvenation Practice in Lee’s Summit, MO, have helped countless patients of varying ages fight the signs of aging or soften the look of wrinkles using Botox – so that they can feel and look their best all the time.

Call now and schedule your appointment with us!