Identical Twins Reveal Surprising Results After One Used Botox for 20 Years While the Other Didn’t
In a fascinating study, a pair of identical twins revealed unexpected results after one sister used Botox regularly for 20 years, while the other chose not to undergo any similar treatments.
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The Study
A study led by Dr. William J. Binder compared two women, referred to as Twin 1 and Twin 2, who are genetically identical. One twin, Twin 2, received Botox injections regularly every two to three years for around 13 years starting in 2006, while Twin 1 had only a few Botox treatments over her lifetime.
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What the Study Revealed
After years of regular Botox treatments, Twin 2 exhibited significantly smoother skin and fewer visible wrinkles on her forehead compared to Twin 1, whose skin showed deeper forehead lines and crow’s feet. Interestingly, Twin 2’s wrinkles were less noticeable even seven months after her Botox treatment.
However, when it came to the nasolabial folds (the lines running from the nose to the corners of the mouth), both twins showed similar wrinkles in the lower half of their faces, suggesting that the Botox did not affect this area. The study indicated that this similarity in the nasolabial folds was due to the natural aging process rather than Botox use.
Credit: American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
Long-Term Effects of Botox
In 2012, when both twins were 44 years old, Twin 2 continued with Botox, leading to even greater differences between the two sisters. Twin 2 had fewer wrinkles around her mouth, while Twin 1 developed a fuller jaw, although it was unclear if Botox played a role in this.
Factors such as living environments were also considered. Twin 1 lived in Munich, while Twin 2 resided in Los Angeles, but both worked indoors and used sunscreen when outdoors.
Credit: American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
Conclusion
Dr. Binder concluded that long-term Botox use appeared to have a significant impact on skin aging, especially in the forehead and glabellar regions. Over time, Botox may help prevent the chronic muscle contractions that lead to wrinkles. As a result, Twin 2’s skin appeared younger, with fewer visible signs of aging.
Dr. Binder further explained that long-term Botox use could teach the muscles to avoid contracting, which might contribute to a more youthful appearance by reducing the mechanical pressure on the skin.
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