New Research Says Women Have a "Crack-Like" Addiction to Botox
Just a little shot here, a little shot there...
![Snow, Stationery,](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GbrfQhjSpzYyc3KuV7bMbb-415-80.jpg)
There is no doubt that the introduction of Botox back in 2002 was a game changer for the beauty and cosmetic-surgery industries. Fifteen years in, its popularity shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, the number of younger women (aged 19-34) receiving injections has actually soared 41% since 2011, according the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
It's those young women who might be feeling a "crack-like addiction" to injectables, one researcher says. In her new book Botox Nation: Changing the Face of America, Dana Berkowitz, PhD, wonders if doctors are creating (and enabling) lifelong customers by suggesting they start younger and younger.
"The problem is that Botox only lasts for between four and six months, so once you start seeing those lines form again you go back," explains Berkowitz. "Women I interviewed talked about it in terms of it being addictive. One said she was 'crack-like' about it."
A post shared by Kelly Choi, NP-C (@theinjectionista)
A photo posted by on
It's not just the temporary nature of Botox that keeps women coming back; it's also the Sisyphean task of trying to stop or erase every sign of aging, including those that haven't even appeared yet.
One 30-year-old told Berkowitz, "I love Botox, but the only problem is that now the attention is taken away from my forehead and I'm starting to notice my parentheses around my mouth. I feel like I want fillers there."
While Botox has a myriad of uses—like obstructing over-active sweat glands and maybe even easing depression—Berkowitz's book attacks the whole "preventative" concept as an insidious tool of the beauty biz, another way to make women feel inadequate.
Hmm, major food for thought. Just don't think too hard...it might cause a forehead wrinkle.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Follow Marie Claire on Facebook for the latest celeb news, beauty tips, fascinating reads, livestream video, and more.
-
Our Complete Quiet Luxury Shopping Guide
30 quality closet classics that always have—and always will—endure.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford Medal in Mother-Daughter Olympic Matching
The pair touched down in Paris wearing coordinating navy looks.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
Prince Harry Reveals Royal Family Rift Was Worsened by Tabloids
"Yeah, that’s certainly a central piece to it."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
This Valentino Perfume Is the Best Fragrance of 2024, According to Beauty Experts
It's a layerable, floral fragrance.
By Samantha Holender Published
-
Is Colostrum the New Collagen?
Doctors and wellness professionals have a lot to say about TikTok's supplement of the moment.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
TikTok Is Making "Unsexy" Beauty Products Seem Very Appealing
There's more to worthwhile products than pretty packaging.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Fendi's First Fragrances Are Designed for Fashion Obsessives
It's finally available to shop.
By Halie LeSavage Last updated
-
Why Beauty Experts Are Calling Out Youthforia's New Foundation
This isn't the way to do inclusive shades.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
The 32 Best Hair Growth Shampoos of 2024, According to Experts
Rapunzel hair, coming right up.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published
-
The 20 Best Hair Masks for Damaged Hair, According to Experts and Editors
Healthy strands, here we come!
By Gabrielle Ulubay Last updated
-
How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According To Experts
Keep it fresh, my friends.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Published