Botox and Facial Fillers: How Early is Too Early?

Botox and fillers are becoming increasingly popular among young people in an attempt to augment facial features and prevent aging.

Botox and Wrinkle Prevention

Crows feet, lines around your mouth, and forehead furrows are all caused by the repetitive movement of the facial muscles. This movement then causes certain areas of the face to fold and crease. After the wrinkles have been firmly established in your 40s, 50s, or 60s you can turn to Botox in an attempt to smooth out lines but, ultimately, prevention remains your best option. Nowadays, many people are turning to this procedure in their 20s and 30s as a preventative measure. If used correctly, Botox injections not only wipe away fine lines but also paralyze the nerves and muscles of the face to prevent lines from ever appearing.

Facial Fillers and Celebrities

Facial fillers in women as young as 19 have also become new phenomena. Young girls are turning to dermal fillers to give them the full lips they always wanted but weren’t naturally born with. Many people say that the rise in popularity of fillers is attributed to celebrities such as Kylie Jenner who have boldly revealed that they have enhanced their lips with the fillers.

The Fleeting Results of Botox and Fillers

Unfortunately, the effects of dermal fillers and Botox are fleeting. The results usually last  anywhere from 6 to 12 months before disappearing However, their low cost, easy accessibility, and lack of serious side effects make them a viable option to quickly and effectively enhance your physical appearance.

Botox and Fillers Stop Aging

Used in conjunction with each other, Botox and fillers, are a proven and popular way to stop the hands of time from revealing themselves on your face. Certain types of fillers have even been known to spur collagen production to create a smoother, younger appearance.

Disadvantages of Fillers and Botox for Younger People

• Fillers: Fillers were originally developed for use in older people. The filler would recreate a more youthful appearance by plumping out lips or cheeks that had shrunken. However, when used in a youthful face they often give a fake, plastic-type appearance like overly inflated lips. This over-the-top look actually creates a reverse aging effect that makes someone look older than their years.
• Botox Injections: Botox paralyzes the facial muscles so a young face looks almost plastic-like and fake. The expressions and vibrancy of youth are often lost.

Interestingly, the disadvantages of fillers and Botox actually become advantages for the younger generation because they are status symbols. Having facial work is no longer something that is hidden but instead proudly displayed just like a designer handbag, the newest iPhone, or couture clothing.

The Addictive Nature of Botox and Fillers

These procedures can have an addictive effect on many people. A small lip augmentation creates a high in the patient and leaves them craving even more augmentations. Unfortunately, after a few months of looking at their lips in the mirror, they start to think they don’t look plump enough so additional filler is required.

The same holds true for Botox, a patient becomes used to seeing the smooth appearance created by the injections so any small crease becomes a cause for alarm and additional injections in new locations are sought.

The ultimate decision of using Botox and fillers during your youth falls on your shoulders. They are safe to use at any age and can truly prevent future wrinkles if used correctly and in moderation.

To decide if either of these procedures are right for you, you should call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vargas and her staff of trained medical professionals at Vargas Skin and Facial Center.