What’s ‘Barbie Botox’? It’s ‘TrapTox’!

If we needed any more proof that Barbie fever has gripped our collective consciousness, just look at the number of products and tweakments that are being marketed via association with the iconic doll. The latest is ‘Barbie Botox’ – a tweakment currently trending on social media that promises to give you the long, slender neck of a Barbie doll, using strategically placed injections of botulinum toxin.

So what exactly is ‘Barbie Botox’?

‘Barbie Botox’ involves the injection of toxin into the trapezius muscles, which are located across your neck, back, and shoulders. By temporarily inhibiting nerve cell communication, the injections can help relax the muscles and shrink them over time, resulting in the appearance of a longer and more slender neck. That (at a push) is what makes your neck look more like the classic doll.

The tweakment is also minimally invasive, has no downtime, and isn’t particularly painful, so it’s easy to see why it’s trending. However, it’s important to note that ‘Barbie Botox’ is not a new treatment, and neck slimming isn’t the only thing it can do.

Er, and what is ‘TrapTox’?

I wrote about these injections earlier this year, pre-Barbie, when the tweakment was being referred to by practitioners as ‘TrapTox’.

At that point, it already had over 2.8 million views on TikTok, but the emphasis was on using the injections to relieve tension and pain, as well as improving posture. This has unfortunately become more of a side note in ‘Barbie Botox’ discussions.

“It has been said that ‘Traptox’ is trending because women want to have that ‘Barbie’-like neck appearance, but it’s likely becoming more popular because of its dual benefits,” agrees the founder of G&M Healthcare Dr Grace Hula. “It offers therapeutic relief from muscle tension and discomfort, as well as those cosmetic advantages.”

How does ‘Barbie Botox’ or ‘Traptox’ help reduce tension?

“By administering several small injections directly into the trapezius muscle on either side of the neck – specifically at points identified to be causing pain – you can get effective relief from tension and knots, as well as a slimmer, elongated neck appearance,” explains the founder of Almas Dentistry and Aesthetics, Dr Thuha Jabber.

It’s a good area to target because the trapezius muscles are a common accumulator of tension, especially for desk workers. Tension in this area not only leads to pain but may contribute to headaches and migraines too.

How instant and long-lasting are the results?

Pain relief can be achieved within a week of the injections, and it lasts up to six months before top-up treatment might be required. Slimming takes a little longer but can also last up to six months.

What are the risks?

Despite the care-free association with all things Barbie, you shouldn’t forget that ‘Barbie Botox’ or ‘Trap-tox’ is an aesthetic procedure with potential risks, as Dr Hula explains: “Some common side effects include mild bruising, swelling, or redness at the injection site. In rare cases, individuals may experience temporary muscle weakness or allergic reactions. It is essential to consult with a qualified medical professional to assess individual risks and determine if Traptox is a suitable option.”

So, if you are interested in improving the appearance of your neck, or relieving tension around your shoulders, look to our practitioner listings to find the right expert for you.