Trap Tox

It seems like summer of 2023 will be forever known as the summer of Barbie.  As the movie gained popularity, so did the term “Barbie Botox”. So what exactly IS Barbie Botox? I mean her face already doesn’t move, lol. “Barbie Botox” refers to utilizing neurotoxin injected into the trapezius muscle to cause a slimming effect of the neck and upper shoulders, emulating the slim neckline of the infamous doll. While the term Barbie Botox may be new, trap tox in general is not a new treatment at all. Medical professionals have been injecting tox into this muscle for over 25 years to help with muscle spasms, torticollis, headaches, and chronic tension.

The trapezius muscle is the largest muscle of the lower neck/upper back, and extends from the base of the skull, down the thoracic spine, and across the shoulder blades. It’s job is to aid in lifting and stabilizing the shoulders, especially during overhead movements. This muscle can become bulky over time in people who weightlift, have active jobs, are hunched over a computer for long periods of time, or have repetitive motion job (I’m looking at you hair stylist and injectors!). This can all lead to the appearance of a shortened or widened neck. During the summer months, many sought treatment to slim this muscle for aesthetic purposes (think tank tops, wedding dresses, etc.). For slimming, treatment needs to be maintained every few months. Despite the increased popularity, not everyone is an ideal candidate for this treatment. 

Let’s talk about pros and cons:

Pros:

This treatment has become so popular for a reason! It works! If you’ve ever suffered from a tight, painful neck spasm, you know how much this can affect your quality of life. By relaxing this muscle with tox, it helps to relieve tension from overuse, can help with headaches, and can even help with postural imbalances. Aesthetically, it gives the appearance of a slimmer neckline, and helps women feel more confident in tank tops, bathing suits and dresses. Many of our brides here at Aiyana have received this treatment as part of their wedding prep to help them feel confidently beautiful on their big day. 

Cons:

Just like with any other indication for neurotoxin, not everyone is an ideal candidate.  The trap muscle is used constantly throughout the day. From sitting up in bed, to picking up your child, to lifting weights at the gym, this muscle plays a HUGE role in our day to day life. It’s important to take your lifestyle into consideration before treatment. Since tox naturally weakens muscles (that’s how it works after all), “Barbie Tox” will cause overall weakness of this muscle. If your hobbies or lifestyle includes activities with constant overhead or even over-the-shoulder movements, this treatment may make them more challenging or even impossible. Let’s use weightlifters for example: The trapezius is used in MANY common lifting movements, from shoulder presses all the way to squats and deadlifts. Imaging trying to stabilize a heavy barbell squat with weakened shoulder muscles (hello injury!). 

So while an aesthetic slimming effect may be the goal for some, it is important to keep in mind the effect that it will have on strength and stability. Just like with any procedure you are considering, a thorough consultation and communication with your provider is key! Make sure the conversation includes not only your aesthetic goals, but lifestyle restrictions as well. Book your trap tox appointment today!