The release of the Barbie movie last summer sparked an interest in women eager to emulate a Barbie doll look to make their neck appear more slender. This craze suddenly became a Tik Tok beauty trend and was coined “Barbie Botox”. Even a year later, there is still a marked interest in this cosmetic procedure. Treatment involves Botox® injections to the trapezius muscles from the back of the neck along the back of the shoulder. The Botox® relaxes these muscles, reducing bulkiness in the shoulders and neck to create a longer, more slender neckline. The treatment provides a more feminine contour between the neck and shoulders.
How does Botox® work?
Botox® is a neurotoxin that blocks chemical signals from the nerves that cause muscles to contract. This temporary treatment can relax muscles from 3-6 months. When used in areas of the face, Botox® relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkles in the forehead, frown lines, crow’s feet, and number 11 lines. When the Botox® wears off, the wrinkles will return.
Botox® is FDA approved for cosmetic use in treating facial wrinkles. It is also approved to treat a number of other health conditions including migraine headaches, neck spasms, overactive bladder, lazy eye, and excessive sweating. Botox® is sometimes used in off-label treatments including TMJ, facial neuralgia, and diabetic neuropathy. “Barbie Botox” is considered an off-label use.
Is Barbie Botox a safe procedure?
“Barbie Botox”, also known as “trap tox”, is a safe procedure when performed by qualified medical personnel. There are potential risks when not injected properly. Neighboring muscles could be negatively impacted and weakened. A physician should determine whether a patient is a good candidate for the procedure. Many med spas perform “Barbie Botox” with very little oversight.
What happens after the injections?
People with more prominent trapezius muscles are more likely to see desired results. When these muscles get bulky, they hold a lot of tension. This may contribute to tension headaches and tightness in the neck muscles. As the muscles respond to treatment, they will relax and look less bulky. Results are not immediate. It may take a month or so to see a noticeable difference.
Can other neurotoxins be used?
Other neurotoxins have been used for this “trap tox” procedure including Xeomin®, Daxxify®, and Dysport®. The treatment should be tailored specifically to the patient and their individual needs. Costs will vary depending on the brand used and how many units are needed.
“Barbie Botox” is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing, have neuromuscular conditions, nerve damage in that area, or are under the age of 18. A longer needle is necessary for injections into the trapezius muscles than facial muscles, so patients may feel slightly more discomfort during the procedure.
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