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*When should I start getting [Botox®](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox-facial)? Is it time to incorporate retinol into my skincare routine? What is a “mommy makeover”? How about a “daddy do-over”? Do I really need to, as the saying goes, sacrifice my butt for my face? Should I swap my temporary dermal fillers for something a bit more permanent?* 

*When it comes to beauty and aesthetics, there is no such thing as one-size-fits-all. But there are some tried and true principles that will keep you looking and feeling your best. In this series, [Coming of Age](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/coming-of-age), The AEDITION answers your most pressing questions about the best treatments, procedures, and practices — from surgery and skincare to health and wellness and everything in between — to consider at any age.*

Depending on who you talk to, your twenties are either the best of times or the worst of times. But one thing is certain: there is never a better time to start taking care of your skin. Because it is the decade during which your complexion bounces back in a flash and fine lines and wrinkles are far from your mind, taking preventative measures with both professional and at-home treatments can pay dividends later on.

In addition to investing in a sunscreen you won’t mind wearing every single day (it’s a non-negotiable), maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and cultivating good skincare habits (think: *always* washing your face before bed), your twenties are the time to establish a relationship with a board certified dermatologist. Whether you are dealing with hormonal acne (sadly, pimples don’t magically disappear when you exit your teenage years), need a skin cancer screening, or are curious about injectables or other minimally invasive procedures, a professional opinion could go a long way towards long term skin health.

Below is a guide to some of the best cosmetic treatments and procedures to consider and healthy lifestyle habits to keep in your twenties!  

## __Minimally Invasive Treatments__

###__Microneedling__
Not to be confused with microdermabrasion, [microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling) is a minimally invasive treatment that improves cell turnover and promotes collagen and elastin production (i.e. the proteins that support the structure of the skin) by using a handheld device covered in fine needles (like a dermaroller) to make small punctures in the skin. 

“We numb patients prior to treatment and use a pen to create micro-injuries in the skin,” says [Richard Brown, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/richard-brown-md-4646), an Arizona-based board certified plastic surgeon. “By doing this, we are mimicking the skin’s natural healing process — allowing for fresh blood supply, cell turnover, and the production of collagen and elastin.”

Microneedling is also great for treating atrophic (a.k.a. depressed) scars, specifically those caused by acne. Severe teenage and adult acne can damage the skin, and, if the body produces too little or too much collagen during the healing process, the skin will scar. The micro-wounds caused by microneedling help trigger the body’s natural healing process, which can lead to the improved appearance of scars.

Dr. Brown likes to alternate microneedling with chemical peels (more on those below!) and recommends sessions every four to six weeks. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the absorption rate of topical skincare products is greatly increased after treatment, though itchiness and redness may linger for a few days.

###__Chemical Peels__
Speaking of [chemical peels](hhttps://aedit.com/procedure/tca-peel), the treatment relies on — you guessed it — chemical exfoliators like alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids, trichloroacetic acid, and carbolic acid to slough off dead skin cells and rejuvenate the skin (think: smoothing fine lines and correcting mild to moderate hyperpigmentation). With both at-home and professional-strength options available, the potency can be tailored to a patient’s skin type and level of sensitivity. 

“Typical facials cleanse the skin and may offer a bit of exfoliation and hydration, however, chemical peels can take off the top few layers of dead skin resulting in a more dramatic change in the skin’s appearance,” says Dr. Brown. “In my experience, facials feel nice for a day or so, but the results of a chemical peel and/or microneedling will have more impact on the skin’s health.”

Consulting with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon will ensure that you get the treatment that is right for you. And while redness and swelling can occur for up to a week after the treatment, Dr. Brown says brighter skin and a more even complexion can “last months” when coupled with “proper at-home care and sun protection.”

###__Injectables__ 
You’ve likely heard of the idea of “[preventative Botox](https://aedit.com/aedition/can-you-be-too-young-for-botox)” (i.e. using botulinum toxin type A injections to ward off future lines and wrinkles), but will introducing [Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, or Xeomin®](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) into your skincare regimen in your twenties really have a long term benefit? The short answer is yes.

“The sooner you prevent animation of the muscle, the sooner you prevent the permanent lines over time,” Dr. Brown explains. Botox® and its competitors are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to temporarily reduce the appearance of glabellar lines (a.k.a. frown lines), crow’s feet, and forehead lines (and they have many “off label” anti-aging uses as well). 

When injected into an area of concern, botulinum toxin type A temporarily paralyzes the muscles and, in turn, eases the formation of lines and wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions (think: frowning, squinting, smiling) that utilize said muscles. Once the fine lines and wrinkles form, they are harder to correct, so starting preventative treatments early could lead to smoother skin down the line. 

Regardless of which brand injectable you choose, results take about a week to kick in and typically last three to six months. Bruising and pain at the injection site are common, and, in rare cases, botulism-like symptoms (trouble breathing and swallowing, muscle weakness, and slurred speech) may occur.

## __Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery__
If you have more invasive procedures on the brain, your twenties may be the time to move ahead with them. With facial features fully developed and the body likely in peak health, patients in their twenties may find that they recover faster and bounce back better after reconstructive or cosmetic surgeries during this decade.

Popular facial plastic surgeries for 20-somethings include [rhinoplasties](https://aedit.com/procedure/closed-rhinoplasty) (a.k.a. nose jobs), [lip augmentations](https://aedit.com/procedure/lip-augmentation-with-autologen), [otoplasties](https://aedit.com/procedure/otoplasty) (i.e. ear reshaping), and [blepharoplasties](https://aedit.com/procedure/upper-eyelid-blepharoplasty) (eyelid surgery). 

One thing you may want to skip: breast enhancement (e.g. [breast augmentation](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-augmentation-with-implants), [breast lift](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-lift), or [breast reduction](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-reduction)).

“I always suggest that patients have breast surgery after having children. The only time I think it is okay to have breast surgery first is if the patient is younger and not planning children for many years ahead,” Dr. Brown says. “In that situation, I think it is okay to have a procedure if you feel that doing so is very important to you in the present moment in life. Just realize you possibly will need revisions after children.”

In general, Dr. Brown advises women to hold off on larger surgical procedures (particularly related to the breasts) until after childbirth because pregnancy can cause weight and volume fluctuations that directly affect the quality of skin. 

## __At-Home Care__
While there are plenty of procedures that’ll keep your complexion in tip-top shape, not every treatment option requires a trip to the doctor’s office. There are plenty of lifestyle factors that will promote skin health. 

It goes without saying that eating a well-balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, limiting alcohol consumption, not smoking, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly are important practices at any point in life, but it should be noted that not embracing those healthy habits from a young age can lead to premature aging. 

Additionally, there is no better time than the present to adopt a skincare routine. Dr. Brown recommends a four-step regimen that includes a cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, and retinol. The latter is a jack of all trades that can treat everything from acne to wrinkles, though it may require a bit of patience to work up a tolerance. When it comes to sunscreen, you should be wearing SPF 30 at a minimum. Finding a broad-spectrum formula that will protect against both UVA and UVB rays is also key (for everything you need to know about sunscreen, we’ve got a deep dive on the topic [HERE](https://www.aedit.com/aedition/what-you-need-to-know-about-sunscreen)).

While you can spend as much time in the skincare aisle as you’d like, Dr. Brown says nothing can compare to simply taking care of yourself with a healthy diet and lifestyle. 

## __The Takeaway__
Since the twenties are less about correcting and more about preventing, minimally invasive treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, and neurotoxin injections can offer both immediate and long term benefits. During this decade, facial features have also fully developed, which may mean it is an ideal time to consider reconstructive or cosmetic surgeries. Adopting a proper skincare and sun care routine is also beneficial, but nothing can replace a healthy lifestyle.

Aesthetics

From chemical peels and preventative Botox® to daily sunscreen application and a healthy diet, The AEDITION breaks down the best treatments to try and healthy habits to develop in your twenties.

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Procedures To Consider In Your 20s

Coming Of Age: The Best Procedures To Consider In Your 20s

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*When should I start getting Botox®? Is it time to incorporate retinol into my skincare routine? What is a “[mommy makeover](https://aedit.com/procedure/abdominoplasty)”? How about a “daddy do-over”? Do I really need to, as the saying goes, sacrifice my ass for my face? Should I swap my hyaluronic acid fillers for something a bit more permanent?* 

*When it comes to beauty and aesthetics, there is no such thing as one-size-fits-all. But there are some tried and true principles that will keep you looking and feeling your best. In this series, [Coming of Age](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/coming-of-age), The AEDITION answers your most pressing questions about the best treatments, procedures, and practices — from surgery and skincare to health and wellness and everything in between — to consider at any age.*

I’ve worked in the beauty industry for most of my adult life, so when it comes to skin care and cosmetic procedures, if you’ve dreamt it, feared it, or loathed it, I’ve probably tried it. At the ripe old age of 24, I giddily succumbed to a big-name dermatologist as he injected [Botox®](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox-facial) into my forehead to erase furrows that didn’t exist. Mind you, this was shortly before we even rang in the 21st century — and well before the advent of Instagram, selfies, and Facetime. At the time, many of my friends gasped in horror that I would allow for such a thing to be done to my face. I didn’t need any “work,” they told me. But fast forward 20 years, and it looks like I was an early adopter of one of the biggest current [trends in beauty](https://aedit.com/aedition/7-things-youre-not-doing-for-your-skin-but-should) — prejuvenation.

## **Why Younger People Are Trying to Prevent Signs of Aging** 

The essence of this movement? Young patients using these treatments as a preventative measure. The goal is anti-aging: to stop that forehead wrinkle before it becomes a wrinkle or to avoid ever having crow’s feet at all (while smiling all you want).  And the only way to do that is to start non-surgical cosmetic treatments before time begins to take its toll on your skin. The recent American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) annual member survey showed a 24 percent increase in cosmetic surgery or injectables in patients under the age of 30 since 2013 which they say points to a larger trend. 

“Selfies and social media put us all under the microscope. We look at ourselves on posted images much more frequently, closely, and critically than any generation before us,” explains board certified facial plastic surgeon [Oren Friedman, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/oren-friedman-md-1609). “We become self-conscious of our appearance because we see ourselves in close-up, and sometimes distorted, pictures so often.” At the same time, he says the same social media spreads the word about minimally invasive injectable procedures very rapidly, drawing people’s attention to these no-downtime, relatively painless interventions that can be transformative over the course of a 10-or 20-minute office visit.

## **Prejuvenative Procedures**

Dr. Friedman explains that neuromodulators and botulinum toxins such as Botox®, Xeomin®, and Dysport® are the most common non-surgical procedures for younger women since the injection of these products helps remove fine lines and wrinkles from the face that are associated with muscle activity, especially around the eyes and forehead.  

His experience is echoed by another board certified facial plastic surgeon, [Jason Bloom, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/jason-bloom-md-2248). “Neuromodulators actually weaken the muscles that create wrinkles, like the 11's between the brows and crow’s feet,” he says. “If you wait until these lines are etched into the skin to start using Botox®, you’ll still have the line even if you don’t have the movement. At that stage, you’ll need to [inject it with filler](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers) to fully erase it. But injecting small amounts in your 20s or 30s actually stops the movement so the line never gets etched in.” Stopping the movement doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll end up with a “frozen face” — that state when your face remains the same regardless of what emotion you’re feeling. The goal is to retain just enough movement to look natural.

Once you’ve stopped the progression of creases, the next area to target is restoring the fat that makes our faces look youthful. “The loss of fat in the face proceeds in a standard way for all of us,” explains Dr. Bloom. “The first fat pads we lose, beginning in the early to mid-20s, are the ones around and under our eyes. That’s what’s happening when young women say they want to look less tired, without the [dark circles](https://aedit.com/procedure/under-eye-filler).” This common request is addressed by injecting a hyaluronic acid filler into the [tear troughs](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-i-quit-crying-about-my-tear-troughs) or under the eyes. 

Another way to think of prejuvenation? That millennial super-buzzword: self-care. While we’re taking care of ourselves by taking an extra workout class, sipping on collagen smoothies, and practicing meditation, what we are essentially doing is trying to keep the aging process at bay (or, at least, stalling it). These quick treatments are an extension of staying in a youthful state. The extra bonus: You don’t need a filter to take your best selfie.

Patient Perspective

What if you could stop fine lines and wrinkles before they even show? That’s exactly why many twenty-somethings are turning to cosmetic procedures today, but beauty insiders were doing it decades ago. Here’s how the prejuvenation trend hit it big.

I Was Practicing Prejuvenation Before It Was A Trend

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*When should I start getting [Botox®](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox-facial)? Is it time to incorporate retinol into my skincare routine? What is a “mommy makeover”? How about a “daddy do-over”? Do I really need to, as the saying goes, sacrifice my ass for my face? Should I swap my hyaluronic acid fillers for something a bit more permanent?* 

*When it comes to beauty and aesthetics, there is no such thing as one size fits all. But there are some tried and true principles that will keep you looking and feeling your best. In this series, [Coming of Age](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/coming-of-age), The AEDITION answers your most pressing questions about the best treatments, procedures, and practices — from surgery and skincare to health and wellness and everything in between — to consider at any age.*

As we get older, youthful glowing skin can be seen as a luxury wasted on the young, but if we start taking care of our skin early, it's easier to get than you'd think. The critical period after adolescent acne and before signs of aging show up is the best time to start taking steps to preserve the glowing skin of youth. We spoke to Beverly Hills dermatologist Jeanette Black, MD, to find out the most effective steps 20-somethings can take to preserve their skin in the long run. It turns out there are many effective preventative measures from lifestyle choices to injectables that anyone can (and should) adopt.

## **It's Never Too Early for Prevention**

Until recently, the focus of anti-aging treatments has been on treating [signs of aging](https://aedit.com/aedition/7-things-youre-not-doing-for-your-skin-but-should) once they have appeared, but millennials are leading the charge in a more preventative approach to their health and skincare. Dr. Black says that prevention can start as early as childhood by parents applying sunscreen to prevent sun damage and the habit should carry on into teenage years and adulthood. “I always counsel young parents to apply sunscreen on their children regularly and it is also important to teach older children and young adults about the benefits of wearing daily sunscreen," she says. This is the best preventative measure anyone can take to combat the signs of aging and it is never too early to start. 

”Protecting skin against UV exposure is not only useful for preventing signs of aging, but it is also important to avoid skin cancer," says Dr. Black. She recommends applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on a daily basis to all exposed skin, but particularly on areas prone to sun exposure like the face, neck, and chest. Lightweight gel and cream formulas specifically made for daily use can be beneficial for those who feel that regular sunscreen can be too heavy. With all the options in the market today, there is something for everyone and “the best sunscreen is the one that you will actually wear," says Dr. Black.

## **Create a Skincare Routine That Works for You**

Your twenties are the best time to get in the habit of taking care of your skin by developing a regular skincare routine. But don't feel pressured to go overboard. According to Dr. Black, it's best to keep things simple. “In general, it is important to understand what ingredients you are using in your skincare products and what potential benefits and risks come with them," she says. "Young patients might experience acne or begin to develop sensitivities or allergic reactions to certain ingredients.” 

It’s important to learn how active ingredients in skincare work for you at an early age, so you can adapt as your skin ages and develops different needs. An idea and simple, skincare routine for a 20-something is composed of a cleanser, toner, eye cream, a moisturizing cream at night, and an SPF moisturizer in the morning. If you have specific skin complaints, you can add in targeted serums, but Dr. Black stresses that keeping things simple is key for young skin and can help develop good habits.

One ingredient to consider adding to your routine if you want extra firepower is a retinol or retinoid. Many [acne treatments](https://aedit.com/procedure/accutane) contain these ingredients and people tend to pick them up during their teenage years, but stop using them as their skin improves with age. Consistent use helps in skin cell turnover and the release of dead skin cells, both of which offer great cosmetic benefits. Retinoids have been shown to help prevent signs of aging, improve skin texture, and yes, control breakouts. Look for a serum or cream that contains retinol or a retinoid and gradually add it to your routine (they can sometimes cause irritation if introduced too fast). 

## **Preventative Injectables**

Botox® (botulinum toxin) is not only used to treat visible signs of aging, it can also be helpful as a preventative treatment for patients in their 20s. “Botulinum toxin injections are used to minimize excessive facial movements that lead to etched-in fine lines in the skin," says Dr. Black. "Depending on the patient’s facial muscles and anatomy, botulinum toxin treatments may be initiated at a range of different ages. Patients with strong muscle movements may seek treatment years before someone with less dynamic muscle movements.” 

If you're considering treatment, ask a dermatologist to check your skin and muscle movements so they can advise you on any particular areas should be treated preventatively. “Many patients in their sixties, seventies, and eighties tell me how much they wish they had access to preventative cosmetic botulinum toxins when they were younger and first started noticing lines on their skin," says Dr. Black.

As the popularity of preventative injectables grows, the desired result from these treatments is different for younger patients. It is not about reversing visible lines but about preventing their appearance in the first place. There are other non-invasive treatments that can help preserve youthful-looking skin as well. "In-office resurfacing with chemical peels and laser treatments can help to restore damaged skin," says Dr. Black. [These non-invasive procedures](https://aedit.com/procedure/under-eye-filler) can help control the natural aging process, especially when done regularly over time.

## **Pay Attention To Your Skin**

There is a tendency to be complacent when your skin looks great, like in your 20s, before signs of aging start to appear. But Dr. Black says we should pay attention to our skin as an indicator of what is going on inside our bodies too. “Our skin is the 'check engine' light for our bodies and healthy skin is beautiful skin," she says. "Our skin has innate regenerative healing abilities, but it is only as healthy as we are. Healthy diets and avoiding tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption can help our skin to look its best. Regular exercise can keep our circulation optimal and that is important for our skin as well. Our skin also needs to have a healthy supply of nutrients.” 

Any steps you’re taking (or not) to look after yourself physically and mentally can also show in your skin. Regular detoxes may be helpful when looking to maintain youthful skin. Cutting out caffeine, soy, and refined sugar can help give your skin a break and allow it to recover naturally if you've noticed inflammation or breakouts. Try including these other common foods to your diet to take care of your skin from the inside out:

- Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids which can reduce signs of aging skin. 
- Dark chocolate contains antioxidant flavonoids that fight free radicals and as a result, can help to protect skin from sun damage.
- Lentils are rich in iron and protein, both of which are vital for maintaining glowing and youthful-looking skin.
- Chia seeds contain protein, fiber, and high levels of Omega 3, all of which are necessary for healthy skin. 
- Almonds have high levels of flavonoids and vitamin E which can both act as antioxidants.

## **Know Your History**

"Be aware of your family history of skin cancers and other skin issues," says Dr. Black. "Knowing your risks can be important. For instance, many patients choose to screen for skin cancers more frequently if there is a significant family history. These kinds of risks could additionally make the use of certain products like sunscreen even more necessary.” 

Ask your family about any skin conditions you could be genetically predisposed to. It is important to always discuss possible conditions with your dermatologist as they may impact suggested treatment plans. If you take good care of your skin from an early age, there is nothing to say you will not be able to protect yourself from any of these conditions by working closely with a dermatologist and following a good skincare routine.

Beauty

If we start taking care of our skin early, youthful glowing skin is easier to get than you'd think. There are many effective preventative measures from lifestyle choices to injectables that anyone can (and should) adopt.

How To Maintain Youthful Skin In Your 20s

Too Young for Botox?

Ask dermatologists and plastic surgeons across the country what their most requested treatment is and most of them will say [Botox®](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox-facial). The non-invasive treatment is synonymous with smooth foreheads and is now increasingly requested by younger patients, many of whom hope that using it earlier will help prevent future signs of aging. While Botox® for young patients can be divisive, people in the public eye (or just on social media) are facing increased scrutiny for their appearance, so is it any surprise preventative measures are growing in popularity? We spoke to leading Hollywood-based dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Black, MD, and a patient who had her first treatment at 24-years-old to get the truth about getting preventative Botox® injections.

## **How Botox® Works**

The active ingredient in Botox® is botulinum toxin type A, a neurotoxic protein produced by a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. Most people refer to products including botulinum toxin type A as Botox®, but it is actually a brand name like Xeomin® and Dysport® which are similar products. When cosmetically injected, these products mute nerve endings and relax muscles, resulting in smoother skin and reduced fine lines and wrinkles. The cosmetic use of products containing botulinum toxin type A is considered safe and approved by the FDA. There are some risks associated with Botox® (and other brands of products). Most common side effects are mild, like bruising and flu- or cold-like symptoms following administration, but others can be more severe. Your practitioner will discuss these with you in detail when discussing treatment options. 

## **What Botox® Is Used For**
The use of Botox® treatments to reduce fine lines and wrinkles is most effective when used on dynamic wrinkles,” like on your forehead and/or crow’s feet. The most requested area to be treated with preventative Botox® in young people is the glabella muscle, which is responsible for frown lines between the eyebrows (commonly referred to as the "elevens"). Treating this area can help people have more engaging, relaxed, and inviting expressions, which “can be very important for younger patients working to establish relationships and careers,” Dr. Black explains.

## **How to Achieve the Best Results With Botox®**
Starting early can be helpful by preventing rather than curing wrinkles. “After a line has become etched-in, stopping the motion may not be enough to smooth the line,” Dr. Black warns. To ensure a natural look, your practitioner should work to ensure symmetry. “Most patients are worried that they will look weird,” Dr. Black says. “They have seen bad results on others and they do not want to look unnatural. If Botox® is done well, it should not be noticeable at all.” Since Botox® is a highly potent chemical, the results achieved often depend on the skill of the administrator. "There should not be any abnormal muscle changes," says Dr. Black. In order to achieve the best results and maintain them long-term, it is recommended that patients have a follow-up two weeks after their initial treatment to see if any adjustments need to be made.

Despite common belief, a natural appearance is not always about the amount of Botox® used but rather the injector’s method. “Having an even treatment means that the shape of the [eyebrow is natural and not lifted too high](https://aedit.com/procedure/traditional-midbrow-lift) or dropped too low and it also means that all the muscles are balanced so there are not any areas of odd movement,” Dr. Black explains. “The amount of movement the patient keeps can vary between treatments and can change over time. Ultimately, the goal is to give the patient an improved expression and prevent wrinkles, all while maintaining a natural look.” Patients should expect to have touch-ups on a regular basis, around every three to four months. Finally, always ensure the practitioner you chose is registered with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or is a board certified dermatologist, as this is a good indicator they have a deep understanding of how facial muscles work.

## **How Much Botox® Costs**
The price of Botox® varies depending on the targeted areas, how many units are used, and your geographical location. In New York, for example, the average cost is $18 per unit. Many practitioners offer a free follow-up after your initial round of injections to make sure the results are as close to your expectations as possible. 

## **Age and Botox®**
For both patients and providers, treatment depends on the individual's needs more than their age. Some people, for instance, have particularly expressive faces which leads them to develop fine lines and wrinkles earlier than others. While age isn't always the most important factor, it is true that the younger generations are paying more attention. Dr. Black believes that in the near future, twenty-somethings will be thinking of Botox® as a staple of their skincare regimen. “Millennials are smart. They understand the importance of investing in their future and Botox® is a good investment,” Dr. Black says. “They also understand that the way they look and the way they age is an important factor in their career and lifestyle.” 

### **Why I had Botox® at Age 24**
Botox® might be more common among millennials, but getting the treatment at a young age can still carry a stigma. We spoke to Laura* from New York who started Botox® when she was 24-years-old. She felt self-conscious about the fine lines that were starting to form on her face and “chose Botox® because it was relatively low risk compared to more invasive procedures.” As for many people, the results from her first set of injections were not quite as she had hoped, but after her follow-up appointment (and adjustments) she was pleased with the result. While some of her friends and family were judgmental about her decision, “I feel so much more confident now,” Laura says. “I used to be so self-conscious, but having the procedure has made me more comfortable.” 

However, Dr. Black thinks Botox® is not something that should be put off, regardless of any fears you may have about what other people think. “It is best to plan ahead and evaluate where lines could potentially form,” Dr. Black says. “Patients can ultimately achieve a more natural aesthetic by starting preventative treatments of Botox® early.” 

## **Botox® Is Not Just for Anti-Aging**
In recent years, Botox® treatments have begun being used for [issues beyond signs of aging](https://aedit.com/procedure/botox-for-hyperhidrosis), like chronic migraines. “Minimizing the frowning muscle can also provide other benefits such as preventing migraines, improving symptoms of depression, and helping to improve interpersonal skills,” said Dr. Black. While these patients may not be looking to cure signs of aging, they may also benefit from the aesthetic improvements. If you suffer from a condition like chronic migraines, you can discuss Botox® as a treatment option with your physician or consult a specialist to find out if it could be appropriate for you. 

## **The Takeaway**
Botox® is one of the safer non-invasive cosmetic procedures. In many cases, it can have a huge impact on your self-confidence and has minimal negative side effects. In the past, [injectables were seen as a treatment](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-new-and-unexpected-uses-for-injectables) to reverse aging, but now young people are turning to Botox®  as a preventative measure, many starting in their late 20s or early 30s. As Dr. Black notes, “all Botox® is preventative” but can be a helpful step against signs of aging. For some people that means incorporating Botox® procedures into their regular skincare routine. The most important thing is to take time to find a practitioner you trust and can talk to openly about your treatment goals, whatever age you are. 

*The patient’s name has been changed

Expert Opinion

Botox® treatments are being requested by younger patients who are hoping to prevent wrinkles altogether. But does preventative BOTOX® actually work? We spoke to doctors and patients to find out.