Taking a look at yourself in the mirror should make you smile. But, it’s common to notice different parts of your facial anatomy that you might not have seen before. Neck cords, or platysmal bands, are normal features that even younger people can have. But, they tend to get more prominent with age.
Once these bands become more visible, they can give the appearance of sagging skin. In this Cloud9 blog, explore what causes these bands on your neck to stand out, along with how Botox helps their appearance. Read on to learn more about today!
What Are Platysmal Bands?
Platysmal bands are most noticeable as the two vertical lines that run down the sides of your neck. These are created when the platysma muscle contracts. This muscle is the most superficial layer in your face and neck, which is why it is so prominent.
People who have noticeable vertical bands in their neck may also have horizontal lines or creases that tend to deepen with age. Once platysmal bands become highly prominent, you might hear people use the term “turkey neck.” Or, you may feel like they make it look like you have a double chin or excessive sagging skin.
What Causes Platysmal Bands?
As with many skin issues, platysmal bands have a wide range of factors that can make them appear more prominently in your facial structure. Genetics can play a role in who has larger bands of muscle or thinner skin that allows them to show through.
Your lifestyle habits, general body makeup and age can also impact whether or not these bands are a cosmetic concern. Although you might not be able to help being born with larger neck bands, you can do some things to avoid making them appear more obvious.
Ideally, you should avoid unnecessary neck strain that occurs from activities such as lifting heavy weights. Wearing sunscreen is always a good skin care habit to follow, and you’ll be happy to know that it also helps to reduce the appearance of neck bands.
Following a good skin care routine can also help to keep neck skin supple and better able to support the muscles below.
How Can Botox Help With Platysmal Bands?
Once general lifestyle changes aren’t enough to reduce these annoying neck lines, you can use Botox platysmal bands to smooth the appearance. Botox works by helping the muscles relax and stand out less.
During a Botox treatment for platysmal bands, a dermatology professional will use injections at various points along the muscle. As the Botox blocks the release of special neurotransmitters, it helps to inhibit muscle contractions, like it does in your forehead or other parts of your facial structure.
For most people, Botox is a well-tolerated treatment that can shave years off your neckline in a short procedure. Usually, you’ll start to see the results of this treatment within a couple of days to a week. Then, you can enjoy months of reduced platysmal bands.
Occasionally, dermal fillers can also be a treatment option that helps to fill in the little lines that tend to appear around these bands. Consulting with a professional dermatologist is the best way to get personalized recommendations for reducing platysmal bands.
When it comes to platysmal bands Botox is an excellent option that can help reduce their appearance. When you’re concerned about the appearance of these bands, take a moment to remember that they are normal.
While you can avoid making them more prominent by practicing good skin care habits, it’s common to need a little help to reduce the lines. Working with a cosmetic dermatologist gives you access to Botox and other effective treatments to help you feel more confident when you look in the mirror.