How Botox Injections May Reduce Depression

Do you often suffer from episodes of anxiety and depression? Do you know botox treatment can help you? Read on to know more.

What is Botox?

Botox is a form of botulinum toxin that is used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The injections work by temporarily relaxing the muscles of the face. When the muscles of the face aren't as active, the skin looks smoother with fewer wrinkles.

Botox isn't only used for cosmetic purposes. It's also used to treat the following medical conditions:

• Chronic migraines
• Excessive underarm sweating
• Overactive bladder
• Early ejaculation
• Abnormal heartbeat
• Severely cold hands
• Cleft lip scars in babies
• Crossed-eyes
• Severe neck spasms
• Depression

Depression and Botox

Botox injections aren't just for cosmetic purposes. They're also used to solve medical issues, such as depression. Studies have shown that Botox injections are effective for reducing symptoms of depression.

One way Botox injections can help relieve depression is by improving facial feedback. Injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin into the patient's facial muscles can temporarily paralyze them. When the patient's muscles are paralyzed, they are unable to form frown lines. The suppression of frown lines can lead to improved mood. 

This notion of the "facial feedback hypothesis" is explained as follows: Our facial expressions are natural reactions to our emotions. For example, if you smile, you'll probably feel happier. In fact, research suggests that if you hold a pencil in your teeth, you'll feel happier just because it forces your mouth into a smile.

The same can be said for frowning. If you frown, you may feel angry or frustrated. Facial feedback is thought to play a huge role in depression, as well as anxiety. When Botox treatment paralyzes the muscles that cause frown lines, they may stop perceiving the world in a negative light. They may see the world as more positive, which can reduce their depression. 

Besides, a study published in the Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology explained the following theories:

• Botox treatment results in improved cosmetic appearance, which indirectly results in improved mood
• By inhibiting frown lines, Botox treatment can result in more pleasant facial expressions, thus leading to positive social feedback and consequent mood improvement
• Reduced glabellar muscle activation lowers sensory nerve signals back to the brain, thus lowering "negative emotional feedback."

Overcome Depression with Botox Treatment!

If you're experiencing depression, Botox may help alleviate your symptoms. Botox treatment has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients.

To learn more about the benefits of Botox to treat depression, visit our office, Love Medical Spa, at 2250 NW Flanders St., Portland, OR 97210. You can also reach us at (971) 500-9009 and schedule an appointment.