Celebrity dermatologist Rashmi Shetty’s guide to ‘Brotox’

Whether you first read about it in a tabloid or heard it in a celebrity interview, Botox has been a part of our collective imagination for decades now. With technical advancement and increased awareness, the popular injectable became increasingly commonplace. It is no wonder that men also gravitated towards this effective treatment, and thus a new buzzword - 'Brotox' was born. To help you better understand the reasons behind its popularity, uses, and much more, Dr Rashmi Shetty, cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Ra Skin & Aesthetics answers important questions below.

Why has ‘Brotox' gained so much popularity?
Shetty: The rise in popularity of ‘Brotox' among men can be attributed to shifting societal perspectives, a more open attitude toward cosmetic procedures, and a quest for a youthful and competitive edge in professional environments. The media, technological progress, and evolving gender norms have collectively played a role in fostering increased awareness and acceptance of Botox among men. This demographic perceives Botox as a minimally invasive method to improve their appearance, aligning with the contemporary emphasis on self-care and aesthetic maintenance.

The desire for a youthful and vibrant image is particularly prominent in a society that increasingly values a polished and well-groomed outward presentation. Men, influenced by a changing cultural landscape, now view Botox as a viable option to address signs of ageing, contributing to its surge in popularity. As social norms continue to evolve, Botox for men has become not only socially acceptable but also a symbol of adaptability to modern standards of grooming and self-presentation.

What are men using 'Brotox' for?
Shetty: While there is a vast range of reasons behind men opting for Botox, three prominent uses are:

Anti-ageing: Botox addresses a prevalent issue associated with facial ageing - frown lines, which tend to form as a result of repetitive facial expressions and muscle movements. The solution offered by Botox involves temporarily easing the tension in the underlying muscles, effectively halting their contractions and the subsequent development of deep lines. This non-invasive procedure has gained popularity among men due to its efficacy in minimising visible signs of ageing without the need for surgical intervention.

By smoothing out frown lines, Botox contributes to a refreshed and more youthful aesthetic, aligning with the present-day emphasis on sustaining a vibrant and youthful appearance. The appeal of Botox lies in its ability to provide noticeable results without the downtime associated with surgical alternatives, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a quick and effective way to enhance their looks and combat the visible effects of ageing. As societal expectations continue to prioritise a youthful image, Botox emerges as a practical and accessible solution for men looking to maintain a relaxed and age-defying appearance.

Excessive sweating: Botox has gained greater significance in addressing hyperhidrosis, a condition marked by excessive sweating. The approach involves injecting Botox directly into sweat glands, blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for stimulating sweat production. This temporary interference effectively leads to a substantial decrease in sweat production, providing a viable solution for men grappling with hyperhidrosis.

The success of Botox in managing this condition has elevated its appeal among individuals seeking a non-surgical alternative to regulate and alleviate the challenges posed by excessive sweating. This application of Botox not only demonstrates its versatility but also proves its potential beyond aesthetic enhancements. The ability to offer relief from hyperhidrosis through a minimally invasive procedure highlights Botox as a practical and effective option for individuals dealing with the physiological impact of excessive sweating.

Chiselled Jaw: In the quest for a well-defined jawline, numerous Indian men are opting for Botox. Conditions such as enlarged salivary glands or persistent biting habits can result in a protruding muscle, obscuring the inherent sharpness of the jawline. The application of Botox involves injecting it into this particular area to calm both the muscle and the gland, facilitating the emergence of a more refined and visually appealing jawline. This trend in India reflects a broader global acknowledgement of Botox as not only a solution for age-related concerns but also as a means to sculpt and refine facial features for a more personalised and desired appearance.

The difference between Botox for men and women?
Shetty: The administration of Botox differs significantly between men and women, primarily attributed to variations in muscle anatomy, orientation, and the desired aesthetic outcomes. Even when targeting the same muscle for a specific purpose, differences in muscle bulk and orientation result in distinct aesthetic goals for men compared to women.

When contemplating procedures to reduce frown lines, it is imperative to seek guidance from a skilled professional. Inexperienced attempts can inadvertently lead to a more feminine appearance of the brow or result in issues like ‘Spock eyebrows', where the lateral eyebrow flares unnaturally. Improper treatment in the lower facial area has the potential to alter the smile or create an excessively narrow jaw, contributing to an undesired feminine look in men and potentially enhancing the jowl, contributing to an aged appearance.

Engaging with an experienced doctor, particularly one with expertise in aesthetics, ensures the preservation of masculinity and the enhancement of youthful features tailored to the unique needs of male patients. This underlines the importance of a personalised approach to Botox administration, considering not only the specific treatment area but also the individual characteristics and aesthetic goals of each patient.

What other injectables are growing popular among men and why?
Shetty: Peptides, when combined with hyaluronic acid, are gaining popularity as a set of injectables. This combination proves to be highly effective in moisturising the skin, particularly appealing to individuals who smoke or engage in frequent partying. The treatment is especially favoured by those with dehydrated and fatigued-looking skin, particularly in the under-eye area. Administered as microdroplets just beneath the skin, this approach successfully combats signs of free radical damage and inflammation, resulting in a more youthful and revitalised appearance.

In addition to peptides, bio-stimulators such as Profhilo, skin boosters, PRP, GFC, and exosomes are experiencing an upward trend. These substances work to stimulate collagen production, contributing to a brighter and more youthful complexion. The use of these injectables is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to address the effects of ageing, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices on their skin. As the demand for non-surgical cosmetic solutions continues to grow, these innovative injectables offer a range of options for individuals looking to enhance the hydration, vitality, and overall youthfulness of their skin. Consulting with a qualified professional ensures that these treatments are tailored to individual needs, providing optimal results.