What You Need To Know About The New TikTok Trend – ‘Barbie Botox’
Have you heard about ‘Barbie Botox’? Ever since the Margot Robbie-starrer Barbie hits the screen in July this year, many women as young as in their 20s rushed for toxin-based procedures to mimic the looks of the movie’s lead actress. This procedure has taken TikTok by storm, and more people asking for it in our clinic as well.
What Is ‘Barbie Botox’?
‘Barbie Botox’ or Traptox refers to injecting Botulinum Toxin into the trapezius muscle, which runs from the back of the head, down the back of the neck and extends out over the shoulders. The purpose of the trapezius muscle is to stabilise our scapula during day-to-day shoulder movements and perform actions like shrugging.
What Exactly Does ‘Barbie Botox’ Do?
When our trapezius muscle is overworked, it can lead to tightness and tension, resulting in strains, headaches and migraines. The procedure was originally designed to aid in the release of tension in the muscle. When Botulinum toxin is injected into the muscle, it temporarily blocks the signals between the nerves and the muscle, hindering muscle contraction. With time, this leads to a reduction in muscle activity, ultimately causing the muscle to weaken.
It wasn’t long before people realised that injecting neurotoxins in the trapezius muscle also gives you cosmetically slimmer shoulders and an elongated neck, due to the reduction in muscle bulk. Initially popularised in countries such as Korea and Thailand, the demand for Traptox as a cosmetic procedure has surged ever since the release of the Barbie movie – hence the term ‘Barbie Botox’.
Are There Risks To ‘Barbie Botox’?
Though Traptox is typically a safe and quick procedure, it is important to note that it is not a treatment to be taken lightly. As with any medical procedure, potential risks exist, always ensure that you are going to an experienced, qualified medical professional. Botulinum toxins, if not injected properly, could impact neighbouring muscles which might weaken them for months.
Also, Traptox may not be a treatment that is suitable for everyone. The injection of Botulinum toxin into the trapezius muscle can affect your long-term strength, especially after repeated treatments, making it difficult to work that muscle in the future. You may also notice asymmetrical shoulders, which will require touch-ups to achieve a satisfactory cosmetic outcome.
Should You Try ‘Barbie Botox’?
At Radium, our doctors mainly administer Traptox injections for medical purposes. With its recent surge in popularity on TikTok, we’ve experienced a rise in demand, with more patients expressing interest in this procedure.
However, before considering these neurotoxin injections, it’s important to be aware that there are alternative methods to attain a lengthened neck appearance, such as engaging in back-strengthening exercises and maintaining proper posture. We consistently encourage our patients to embrace a holistic approach, integrating both exercise and medical procedures, to attain their specific and desired cosmetic goals.
