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The return of high heels brought a friend – Foot Botox

In the world of beauty and wellness, just about everything under the sun has, at one point or another, made a comeback.

Some comebacks in 2022 caused eye rolls, as was the case for the problematic return of size 0. Others sparked curiosity and nostalgia in the same breath (cue the Fawcett Flip revival). And some were downright unnecessary (yes TikTok ‘wellness coaches’, I’m looking at you).

ALSO SEE: Here are a few TikTok wellness trends to lump in your not-so-fast folder

Still, there’s almost always a catch when it comes to a revived trend. And the rise of very high heels strutting back onto the scene is just one of the latest phoenix trends that brought another old friend to the party.

More heels, more problems

We all knew it was coming. After two years focused on sneaker, sandal-and even ‘ugly shoe’ approved comfort, fashion turned its gaze to all things extra (and taller).

But this time, people weren’t prepared to tough out a ‘beauty is pain’ mantra. Instead, they snooped for a solution.

Why is Foot Botox trending?

A 2022 report shared that dermatologists and other aesthetic surgeons saw an uptick in patients wanting to find relief for the woes of wearing high heels. Instead of opting for flatter shoes, patients are getting foot Botox.

If you know and love Botox, you likely know that it has numerous properties, beyond keeping wrinkles at bay for the more mature woman.

Preventative Botox for one, saw a huge surge in interest in 2021 as more people in their 20s opted for the aesthetic procedure. Don’t forget underarm Botox, which also saw popular interest this year as people said “no more” to sweaty pit drama. Not to mention Botox treatments for Plantar Hyperhidrosis or excessively sweaty feet aren’t uncommon either.

Now, Botox for feet (not to be confused with Crow’s feet around the eyes) has taken over, with experts standing firm in its possibilities.

How does it work?

According to dermatologist Dr Michelle Henry, Botox (a neuromodulator) “paralyzes the muscles  on your heel bone, causing the Substance P neurotransmitter to become inactive and in turn lead to less pain overall.”

It isn’t the first time foot Botox saw popularity either. Back in 2016, Dr Esho told The Independent explained a similar rise in the trend’s popularity, sharing that the filler acts as “an extra cushion.”

Even if the trend does pique your interest, hold your high-heeled horses. These procedures aren’t cheap, so if they’re really worth it is another conversation entirely. As it is with any procedure, chat to an expert for all the nitty-gritty details or stay ahead of the curve and rock crocs till you drop.

 

Compiled by: Ashleigh Nefdt

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