While it’s traditionally known for reducing wrinkles and fine lines, did you know that Botox can be used in a whole host of other ways?


From preserving collagen to slimming the appearance of muscles or helping to reduce physical ailments such as migraines, here we talk a bit more in depth about some additional cosmetic uses for botox at Dr Miriam A’s skin clinic in East London.

Botox injections to the trapezius muscle (or “Trap Tox as you may have casually heard it called) has recently gained popularity for its slimming effects to give a slender contour to the neck and shoulder.

Previously the benefits were mainly therapeutic as this big diamond-shaped muscle, extending from neck to shoulders that taper down into the upper back, plays a crucial role in posture and movement. Those suffering with long-term neck and shoulder pain have long sought Botox therapeutically to relax muscle tension and improve mobility. 

The cosmetic happy side-effect of this medical procedure? Slimming of the shoulder line. 

Now, if we are going to talk about shoulders, first let this be said…I love a strong set of athletic shoulders (on men and women alike). The renowned photographer, Helmut Newton, showed us just how sexy they are on women. So, if that’s you, I urge you to own them and love them. But so as not to belittle the concerns of our patients, if you’re someone who feels that their shoulders go beyond the description of strong or stop you from wearing the clothes that you desire, then it may be the treatment for you.

So, why do some of us have larger more rounded shoulders? Several reasons…

While some of us are genetically susceptible to bigger bone structure or medical conditions, others might simply have bad posture, muscle imbalance, or overdeveloped muscles from sports. 

First, it’s important to note that you can’t change a healthy and strong bone structure, but if you think that there may be an underlying medical condition that affects your spine such as scoliosis (S-shape) or kyphosis (humpback), do get yourself checked over by a professional.

Secondly, do bear in mind that poor posture caused by slouching will make the chest muscles tighten and cause shoulders to roll forward. Exercises will greatly improve the appearance of this, and muscle imbalances or overdeveloped muscles may benefit from exercising opposing muscle groups to help create balance.

How can Botox help? 

Botox here works quite differently compared to how it’s used for fine lines and wrinkles on the face. The effect is much slower- while the effect of the Botox administered into the face takes 2 weeks to work, the results in the trapezius develops over weeks and months. 

This is because Botox causes the muscle fibres to relax for a period which induces muscular atrophy, where the muscle shrinks back to its original size so preventing it becoming overdeveloped from excessive use. As the trapezius muscle reduces in size, the shoulders slim down, showing the contour of the neck and shoulder line which results in a more feminine appearance. 

What else can Botox be used for?

Botox can be used for a whole host of conditions including excessive sweating, neck spasms, an overactive bladder, lazy eye, blepharospasm (excessive eye blinking), migraines, teeth grinding and more.

If you’d be interested in further information on how Botox treatment may benefit your concerns, get in touch.