With the growing popularity of cosmetic procedures, wrinkle relaxers (or botulinum toxin, such as ‘Botox’) have become a common way for people to refresh their appearance. While the physical effects are well known – smoother skin and softened lines – less often discussed are the psychological impacts of these treatments.
At ReadyMind, we believe cosmetic procedures should support – not compromise – your mental wellbeing. That’s why we help individuals explore the emotional and psychological factors surrounding treatments before making big decisions. Here’s what the research and clinical insights reveal about the potential benefits, risks, and emotional effects of anti-wrinkle treatments.
Psychological Benefits
Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem
Many people report feeling more confident and self-assured after wrinkle relaxers. Smoothing frown lines or crow’s feet can help individuals feel more aligned with how they perceive themselves – or how they wish to be seen by others.
A study by Dayan et al. (2008) found that individuals receiving botulinum toxin reported improvements in self-esteem and overall quality of life.
Emotional Uplift Through Facial Feedback
Our facial expressions don’t just reflect emotions—they may also influence them. By reducing the ability to frown, anti-wrinkle injections can dampen the physical expression of sadness or anger, potentially improving mood.
Wollmer et al. (2012) found that people with depression experienced reduced symptoms after receiving botulinum toxin in the frown area. A recent review of the evidence found that across five research studies, botulinum toxin injections reduced depressive symptoms more substantially than placebo injections (Schulze et al., 2021)
This emerging research suggests that facial treatments may have subtle benefits for mood, though they are not a replacement for psychological support in individuals with more complex mental health needs.
Psychological Risks and Considerations
Unrealistic Expectations
Some individuals seek cosmetic procedures hoping that external changes will fix deeper emotional difficulties. While a refreshed appearance can boost confidence, it rarely resolves long-standing self-worth concerns. When expectations aren’t met, disappointment and dissatisfaction may follow.
Body Image Concerns and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
For individuals with significant body image concerns – or body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) – cosmetic procedures can sometimes become part of a cycle of seeking perfection. While a procedure might bring temporary relief, it often doesn’t address the core psychological patterns and may even worsen preoccupations over time.
If you find yourself frequently fixated on perceived flaws or feeling distressed about your appearance, psychological support may be a helpful step before proceeding with treatment.
Anxiety and Sensitivity to Change
Many clients are surprised by how different their face can feel after anti-wrinkle treatment. A sense of tightness, numbness, or reduced expressiveness is common – especially when treating the forehead or frown lines.
For some individuals, these changes can be particularly unsettling. Anxiety often heightens sensitivity to body sensations and unfamiliar experiences, so even temporary changes may lead to discomfort or a sense of “not feeling like myself.” This reaction can lead to rumination or regret if not anticipated and discussed beforehand – especially for people who value expressiveness or are already feeling emotionally vulnerable.
Emotional Impact of Complications
In rare cases, individuals may experience complications such as ptosis (drooping of the eyelid or brow). Although usually temporary and medically manageable, even short-term facial changes can have a significant emotional effect – particularly for individuals with body image sensitivity.
People with pre-existing anxiety or body image concerns may be especially vulnerable to mood changes or distress when complications occur. Knowing that most effects are reversible within weeks or months, and having a supportive plan in place, can ease the emotional impact.
How ReadyMind Can Help
At ReadyMind, our psychologists are trained to support individuals considering or recovering from cosmetic procedures. We can help you:
Explore your motivations and expectations
Understand how anxiety or mood may influence your decision
Address body image concerns or discomfort about not feeling like yourself
Build emotional resilience in case of unexpected outcomes
Whether you’re planning your first treatment or have had procedures before, our goal is to help you feel empowered, informed, and emotionally prepared.
Book a Consultation
Thinking about anti-wrinkle treatments and want to explore the emotional side of the decision?
Book an appointment with a ReadyMind psychologist to talk it through in a confidential, supportive space.
References
Dayan, S. H., et al. (2008). The impact of botulinum toxin type A injections on self-esteem and quality of life. Dermatologic Surgery, 34(S1), S108–S113.
Wollmer, M. A., et al. (2012). Facing depression with botulinum toxin: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 46(5), 574–581.
Finzi, E., & Wasserman, E. (2006). Treatment of depression with botulinum toxin A: A case series. Dermatologic Surgery, 32(5), 645–650
- Schulze, J., Neumann, I., Magid, M., Finzi, E., Sinke, C., Wollmer, M. A., & Krüger, T. H. (2021). Botulinum toxin for the management of depression: An updated review of the evidence and meta-analysis. Journal of psychiatric research, 135, 332-340.
