Why So Many Manly Men Are Obsessed With “Bro-tox”
For years, the popularity of Botox knew no bounds, as celebrities, socialites, pop princesses and soccer moms all enjoyed its anti-aging, wrinkle-smoothing benefits. Now, however, more and more men are turning to “Bro-tox” in hopes of achieving a more youthful and radiant appearance like their female counterparts.
According the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 385,000 men in the United States got Botox injections last year, which is a whopping 310% increase from a decade ago. While wrinkles have graced the faces of men since the dawn of time, dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons say there are several reasons why so many men are just now going under the needle, knife, or both.
Perhaps the main reason why so many men are turning to anti-aging cosmetic procedures is the fact that their use is becoming more socially acceptable, according to Dr. Scot Glasberg, president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Last year alone, nearly five million women received cosmetic injectables. The use of Botox and other fillers in Hollywood has become so commonplace — if not expected — that no one bats an eye, and it’s not because their faces are frozen. Botox and its use has become the new normal.
“Years ago the men that came in for Botox were often accompanying their wives, who were regularly getting Botox. Now the patrons are a diverse array of individuals. Younger generation males realize the preventative nature of Botox and want to control their esthetic future. Middle aged males are maintaining their looks for both the competitive work marketplace and personal esthetics,” says Dr. Janis P. Campbell, Dermatologist,Laser Rejuvenation Clinic & Spa of Calgary. “Everyone enjoys the quick, no downtime treatment.”
Another reason for the increasing popularity of Botox treatments among men is the financial and economic meltdown of 2008. Seeking to make a good first impression in highly competitive job market, American men in their 40s and 50s — many of whom were laid off and forced to find new careers — are turning to cosmetic procedures in order to compete with their younger counterparts.
This comes as no surprise. According to a survey conducted by the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development at Rutgers University, nearly two-thirds of unemployed workers age 55 or older claimed they were actively looking for employment for over a year, compared to just one-third of younger job hunters. In addition, according to the AARP Public Policy Institute, two-thirds of workers between the ages of 45 and 74 claimed to have experienced age discrimination while searching for work or while employed.
Last but not least, men are turning to Botox to keep up with the women in their lives. After seeing their wives or girlfriends experience the benefits of Botox, many men feel the need to follow suit.
