Male Demand for Cosmetic 'Tweakments' and 'Brotox' Surges by 70% in Two Years

The British College of Aesthetic Medicine reports a significant 70% rise in the number of men seeking cosmetic injections, such as Botox and fillers, over the past two years. These procedures, often referred to as 'tweakments' and 'Brotox,' are used to relax muscles, smooth out wrinkles, and sculpt facial features like the jaw or cheekbones. Male customers now account for nearly 20% of all appointments, as they aim to address scars, blemishes, and laughter lines, which have become increasingly undesirable.

The rising demand for these cosmetic treatments among men reflects a growing trend of seeking a more youthful and handsome appearance. The procedures involve injecting substances like Botox, a nerve toxin that relaxes facial muscles, and fillers to even out wrinkles and enhance facial contours. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating a multistate outbreak of botulism-like symptoms linked to counterfeit Botox injections.

The CDC has issued an alert to doctors nationwide after health departments in Illinois and Tennessee reported cases of patients experiencing adverse effects, such as blurred or double vision, droopy face, fatigue, and breathing difficulties, following injections from unregulated sources. At least four people have been hospitalized, with two cases in each state. The Illinois patients received injections from a nurse who was performing work outside her authority, using products from unreputable sources.

Why this matters: The surge in male demand for cosmetic injections highlights the changing perceptions of masculinity and the growing pressure to maintain a youthful appearance. However, the risks associated with counterfeit products and unregulated practitioners emphasize the importance of seeking treatments from qualified medical professionals and reputable sources.

Dermatologists caution that it is difficult to ensure the quality of products from unregulated sources and stress the need for patients to be wary of medical procedures performed at unregulated med spas. "Clostridium botulinum, a nerve toxin that relaxes facial muscles, can be damaging if too much is injected in the wrong places," warns a spokesperson from the British College of Aesthetic Medicine. As the investigation into the counterfeit Botox outbreak continues, medical professionals highlight the importance of seeking cosmetic treatments only from qualified and licensed practitioners to ensure patient safety.

Key Takeaways

• 70% rise in men seeking cosmetic injections like Botox and fillers in the UK.
• Male customers now account for nearly 20% of all cosmetic injection appointments.
• CDC investigating multistate outbreak of botulism-like symptoms from counterfeit Botox injections.
• Risks of unregulated products and practitioners highlight need for qualified medical professionals.
• Dermatologists caution against procedures at unregulated med spas due to potential for harm.