Even though “teen toxing,” as Botox use among teenagers has been dubbed, is still relatively rare, it’s on the rise.
In 2009, 11,889 teenagers ages 13 through 19 used Botox, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. That’s a 2% increase since 2008. And the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reports 12,110 Botox or Dysport (another wrinkle-relaxing injectable) procedures were performed on patients 18 and younger.
These drugs are used for non-cosmetic purposes sometimes, such as treating migraines and heavy sweating, but the majority of statistics point toward an attempt to improve beauty. In a world where appearances mean everything to so many, I suppose it should be no surprise that teens are trying to avoid aging—despite the fact their nearest wrinkle is at least 15 years away. It’s sad, though, because the trend indicates that, instead of unselfconsciously pursuing interests, making friends, volunteering or working hard in school, these teens are already ridiculously obsessed with their looks. And to feed that obsession, they take the Botox “gateway drug.” What happens at 25? A total body makeover via scalpel and suction tube? At 30 are they deemed decrepit and condemned?
The latest teen to use Botox—the latest famous one at least—is 18-year-old Filipino singer Charice Pempengco, who is said to have used the injectable drug for cosmetic reasons before filming her new role on the show Glee. Her plastic surgeon, Dr. Vicki Belo, says she used Botox to narrow Charice’s naturally round face, and Charice has said she had the procedure done in order to compete with Lea Michele, the show’s lead actress.
But what are they competing for? Both young women are beautiful. Both young women are extremely talented. Are we in such a cut-throat culture that even that isn’t good enough? Apparently so. And unless teens realize that a) life isn’t about appearance, b) life isn’t about them, and c) aging is a natural part of life, they’re going to be dissatisfied. Except, we probably won’t see a hint of unhappiness on their perfectly preserved, immobile faces.
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