At The Skin Bar, we’ve seen it firsthand: over the past decade, a growing number of women in their 20s are turning to Botox not just as a quick fix but sometimes, taking it a little too far. A recent Vogue article spotlighted this exact shift, noting the sharp rise in popularity of aesthetic treatments among younger women, particularly the trend of ‘preventative’ Botox.
The idea behind preventative Botox is simple...treat fine lines before they fully form, keeping skin smoother for longer. But while the approach is rooted in prevention, there's a fine line between proactive and excessive. And that line is being crossed more often than many realise.
Botox typically lasts between three to six months, but there’s an important conversation missing from the mainstream: what happens when it's overused?
As Dr. Patricia Wexler explained in Vogue, regularly over-injecting especially in areas like the forehead can have unintended consequences. Muscles may weaken over time, leading to a “flattened” appearance and thinner skin. Even more concerning, when one group of facial muscles becomes paralysed, others start to compensate. The result? New wrinkles forming in unexpected places like along the sides of the nose or under the eyes prompting the need for even more treatments to correct what overuse has caused.
In short: what begins as a strategy to prevent ageing can, ironically, accelerate it if not approached thoughtfully.
Why the Rush?
The reasons behind this shift are as complex as the generation itself. Social media plays a massive role in shaping beauty ideals, encouraging a “flawless” look that’s filtered, curated, and often unrealistic. Add to that the “Zoom effect” endless hours scrutinising our own faces on screen and it’s easy to see why more 20-somethings are seeking out injectables. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Botox use among 20- to 29-year-olds has increased by 28% since 2010. And that number continues to rise.
Despite the buzz around Botox, most dermatologists agree: your 20s should be all about investing in your skin’s long-term health, not rushing to freeze every muscle. Start with the essentials:
- Daily SPF to protect against sun damage and prevent premature aging.
- Consistent exfoliation to keep skin smooth and radiant.
- Medical-grade skincare with proven ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and antioxidants to support collagen and defend against environmental stress.
- In-office treatments like needling and chemical peels, which offer real results by boosting cellular turnover and improving texture without altering your natural expressions.
Preventative injectables can be part of a healthy skin strategy but only when used in moderation, by a trusted provider, and with a tailored plan based on your unique facial structure and concerns.
And as Vogue wisely reminds us: You’re only in your 20s once. Smile more, stress less, and care for your skin in ways that feel right for you, not just what’s trending online.
Read Vogue full article here.
