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The ‘Botox’ effects: More than just skin-deep

There is good scientific research now that supports the fact that neuromodulators such as BOTOX, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin, do more than just improve our looks. Neuromodulators can actually increase our feelings of happiness. While this may just seem as a result of looking better and feeling better about ourselves after having the treatment, it actually goes much deeper. SkinCare Physicians’ Dr. Thomas Rohrer explains why.

There is certainly a lot of benefits from looking better after having a neuromodulator procedure. Lines between the eyebrows melt away and people do not look as if they are scowling and therefore may have a better impression on those they are interacting with. The eyebrows lift slightly and the eyes open up more after having BOTOX, Dysport, Jeuveau, or Xeomin and therefore one appears more engaged and less tired. All of these have an effect on the person who was treated as well as those they are interacting with and can lead to an overall positive feeling. But there is much more to this phenomenon than that.

When we make facial expressions, a signal is sent to our brain about our mood. As we smile and “put on a happy face” we are actually signaling our brain that all is well and after a little while we actually feel better as a result of this. The “fake it until you feel it” axiom comes from this biofeedback between our facial muscles, our thoughts, and our brain. Likewise, if we scowl or frown, we are subconsciously signaling our brain that something is wrong. Neuromodulators such as BOTOX, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin can be used to block the muscles that we use to scowl. This not only softens the lines between our eyebrows (the number “11” lines), but also subsequently stops the biofeedback signal of the scowl to the brain. By reducing the external signs of anger, fear, and sadness, the internal negative emotions also decrease. We don’t just feel better because we look better, we actually feel better because our brain believes we feel better.

While certainly not to be used as a monotherapy, there have been several studies now showing a significant improvement in clinical depression after the use of BOTOX. Other studies have shown dramatic improvement in multiple “quality of life” measures such as mood, life satisfaction, self-worth, body image, and first impression scores. While more studies are being conducted on this topic, it is clear that the effects of neuromodulators are not just skin deep. Having a few injections will not just improve our scowl and squint lines, and make us look less angry, tired, and sad. Injections with BOTOX, Dysport, Jeuveau, or Xeomin actually help us feel better!

If you are considering a ‘Botox’ treatment for your skin needs, we strongly recommend that you consult with a board-certified dermatologist who has experience and expertise with neuromodulators.

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