Many people are aware of the use of Botox as one of the most popular non-surgical anti-aging procedures on the market. Generally, Botox is injected into the face to treat fine lines and wrinkles. But did you know that Botox can be used to slim and contour other parts of the body? Without having to undergo surgery, body Botox can leave you with a slimmer appearance so that you can start feeling more comfortable and confident in your skin again. Botox is now being used for many procedures, aside from the traditional injections into the face. It’s often used for a treatment for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), migraines and muscle spasms. The list of alternative uses just keeps growing. Keep reading to find out how Botox is being used for body contouring.
First off, what is Botox?
We’ve probably all heard of Botox, but don’t know exactly what it is. Botox is the brand name of a toxin made from Botulinum toxin, which the bacterium Clostridium botulinum produces. It is a drug that weakens or paralyzes muscles. (This might sound scary but is a safe procedure as long as it’s being administered by a licensed professional!) Botox blocks signals from the nerves to the muscle so the injected muscle can no longer contract. As we’ve discussed, injected in small doses, it can be used to reduce skin wrinkles and help treat other medical conditions. Botox is now gaining traction for its muscle-slimming effects in several areas of the body. This is a great alternative for anyone looking for body contouring options that don’t involve surgery.
How is Botox for body slimming different from those administered to the face?
It’s important to note that Botox injections for body contouring differ from those administered in the face. For body contouring, an intramuscular injection is used, where the Botox goes much deeper into the muscle. This is because you are trying to atrophy the muscle (more so than you would in the face), meaning the muscles will weaken due to inactivity. An atrophied muscle is a thinner muscle, and therefore the injected area will look slimmer and more defined.
Where on the body can Botox be used?
The shoulders:
Botox injected into the trapezius muscles (the large triangular muscle that starts at the base of the neck) can make your shoulders appear slimmer and the neck more elongated.
The calves:
Women can often be self-conscious of bulky calves. When Botox is injected into the calf muscle you will see slimmer calves after just one treatment.
The thighs:
Women especially tend to hold weight in their thighs. Botox can be injected into the quadriceps (the muscle at the front of the thigh) for the appearance of leaner, thinner thighs.
Since everyone’s bodies are so different and everyone’s aesthetic goals are unique, there isn’t a no-one-size-fits-all treatment plan. If you are considering using Botox injections for body contouring rather than wrinkle-fighting, don’t hesitate to book your first appointment with the skilled professionals at EverYoung Laser and Skin Clinics to come up with the right plan for you.
