The fight against aging is alive and well as more people all over the world are turning to Botox to preserve their youthful look. Statistics show that in 2016, Botox generated about $2.8 billion in revenue worldwide. Moreover, it is predicted that even more individuals will be having this type of treatment in the coming years as this figure is expected to reach $4.2 billion by 2022. From smoothing out fine lines to curbing severe underarm sweating to correcting a lazy eye, it seems like Botox is the ultimate beautifier of choice for those who want fast and effective results. But did you know that this injectible is also being currently used as a treatment for depression?
Those who have yet to get help for depression or anxiety may be skeptical of how a beauty treatment favored by celebrities can be an effective way to improve one’s mood. However, there is research—and evidence—that proves that Botox may be just the solution to fighting depression.
How It Works
Some celebrities have been refreshingly candid about how Botox has transformed their looks. But it appears that the effect of this injectible goes beyond the skin, as research shows that it can help to stop negative emotions in their tracks. Chevy Chase Cosmetic Center researcher Dr. Eric Finzi told CBS News that when Botox is injected to the area between the eyebrows where frown lines appear, it can do more than stop you from getting deep wrinkles in this area. The expert says that this type of treatment can make feelings linked to depression (such as anger, fear, and sadness) less intense.
“Botox basically inhibits the muscle and calms it down, so it becomes more difficult to feel those negative emotions,” said Finzi. A patient who has undergone the treatment told the news outlet that she noticed an immediate change in her depression and that her mood was “better on a day-to-day basis.”
Botox to boost self-esteem
Other than preventing you from feeling sad or anxious, another way that Botox can help you combat depression is by changing the way you feel about yourself. Aging can have a negative impact on a woman’s self-esteem as society relates youth with attractiveness. As research has found that a person with low self-esteem may be more vulnerable to depression, feeling better about your appearance may be the key to feeling happier. This is where getting Botox is like hitting two birds with one stone—not only do you look better, but you feel better as a result of your improved looks.
This is possibly the reason why some celebrities such as Sofia Vergara have an open attitude towards getting Botox. The “Modern Family” star once told InStyle that if having Botox or cosmetic surgery can make one feel more confident, then, by all means, people should go for it.
“But I also think you have to do your research, so you know what to expect—that you’ll look fresher but not necessarily younger,” said the actress.
Is it right for you?
If you want to look younger or fresher in an instant and want to feel better about yourself, then Botox may be the solution to your problems. But for treating depression, it may be a good idea to consult a professional as to whether alternative treatments such as getting Botox may be right for you. Relying solely on the injectible to treat your depression or other mental health conditions such as anxiety may not be the way to go. If you’re looking for another way to cure depression apart from therapy and medication, talk to your doctor to see whether Botox injections could be considered as part of your mental wellness plan.
Resources and Further Reading:
1. Total Global Sales Of Allergan’s Botox in 2016, Statista The Statistics Portal, https://www.statista.com/statistics/737477/global-sales-of-allergan-s-botox/
2. I Tried Botox For Sweating And Haven’t Used Antiperspirant for Months, Self, https://www.self.com/story/botox-for-sweating
3. Botox Tested To Help Treat Depression And Social Anxiety, CBS News, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/botox-treatment-depression-and-social-anxiety/
4. 10 Ways To Feel Better About How You Look, Psychology Today, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201407/10-ways-feel-better-about-how-you-look
5. Is Low Self-Esteem Making You Vulnerable To Depression?, PsychCentral, https://psychcentral.com/blog/is-low-self-esteem-making-you-vulnerable-to-depression/
6. The 5 Beauty Products Sofia Vergara Can’t Live Without, InStyle, https://www.instyle.com/news/5-beauty-products-sofia-vergara-cant-live-without
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