Most adults have heard of Botox and all of the many benefits that a Botox treatment can provide. For more than a decade now, this FDA-approved drug has been used routinely to correct signs of aging like crow’s feet, frown lines, and drooping brows. While the primary benefit of Botox is that each treatment effectively reduces muscle contractions for a period of 3 to 6 months, recent research is suggesting there’s even more going on as a result of this wrinkle-reducing treatment.
Botox And Skin Elasticity
Skin is somewhat stretchy. It can be pulled gently and still bounce back to its normal position. At least it can do this when we’re young. This characteristic of the skin is what we call elasticity. As we age, reduction in the production of collagen and elastin decrease the skin’s ability to bounce back. In a recent Canadian study, researchers sought to determine if Botox injections may have any effect on this valuable trait of elasticity.
The study involving 43 women was published in the JAMA Facial and Cosmetic Surgery. It involved measurements of the skin using a tool researchers called a Cutometer. This small device would measure how much the skin would retract after being gently pulled. Participants’ elasticity was measured before Botox injections and after. Researchers measured elasticity improvements up to 30% and found that the increase in elasticity could last as long as four months.
What Does This Mean For You?
Botox is popular among adults of all ages. Some obtain treatment to correct mild to moderate signs of aging. More recently, Botox has become popular among patients in a younger age category who are interested in postponing the onset of aging. In either situation, researchers believe that their newfound Botox benefit can be helpful. They propose that, by improving elasticity, Botox injections may also hold the key to preventing the development of new wrinkles in the treatment area.
Are the signs of aging troubling you? Let’s talk. Call our Fresno office to schedule a consultation where we can discuss your concerns and treatments like Botox or other injectables that can beautifully refresh your look.
