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BOTOX® and Emotions: A Surprising Connection
Can BOTOX® improve your mood? Our Los Angeles-based team of board-certified and cosmetic fellowship-trained dermatologists at Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills knows that patients primarily choose this injectable treatment as a way of enhancing their appearance by softening expression wrinkles. These patients may not be aware, however, that the treatment can also have other—possibly surprising!—benefits.
BOTOX® is a popular cosmetic treatment known for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face. Beyond its cosmetic benefits, the injectable has also been shown to have a positive impact on emotional wellbeing.
It’s true that when we look good, we often feel better about ourselves. A more youthful and refreshed appearance can boost our self-confidence and help us feel better about our appearance. Therefore, seeing your reflection after you’ve had BOTOX® can make you feel happier. This, in turn, can positively impact ongoing emotional wellbeing. In fact, a study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal found that patients who received BOTOX® treatments reported an improvement in both their self-esteem and overall quality of life.
Another thing to know about this treatment is that even though many patients are worried about looking “frozen” after getting injections, sometimes not being able to move certain areas of your face the way you normally would can actually be a positive thing. There are some studies that suggest that smiling has mental health benefits, and our facial expressions can generally contribute to the way we feel. For example, some people believe that not frowning as much—due to the effects of BOTOX®—can put you in a more positive mood, since the expressions we make carry emotional weight. Furthermore, you will look happier to other people as well.
With all of this in mind, it’s important to remember that BOTOX® is not a cure-all for emotional problems. While it may have a positive impact on our self-esteem, it won’t resolve deeper emotional issues or underlying psychological problems. It’s also not recommended for use as a way to mask or suppress negative emotions, since this can have negative consequences for our mental health.
If you want to start a potentially helpful positive feedback loop, however, relaxing facial wrinkles may be a good way to start. Contact our team at Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills for more information. Fill out an online contact form or call us today at 310-246-0495.


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