The Face of Emotion: Botulinum Toxin, Emotional Anatomy, and Mood Modulation

IF 2.3 4区医学 Q2 DERMATOLOGY

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology Pub Date : 2025-05-27 DOI:10.1111/jocd.70264

Robert J. Vanaria, Aysham Chaudry, Angelica C. Marrero-Perez, Z. Paul Lorenc, Mark S. Nestor

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background

Facial expressions profoundly influence emotional communication and well-being. The facial feedback hypothesis suggests that facial muscle activity can reinforce or modulate emotional experiences. Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A), known for its aesthetic applications, is emerging as a modulator of mood through its effects on facial musculature and feedback mechanisms. Its ability to influence mood extends beyond aesthetic improvement, offering potential therapeutic benefits in emotional regulation.

Aims

This literature review explores the interplay between facial anatomy, emotional expression, and the potential of BoNT-A to enhance overall mood and well-being, beyond aesthetic improvement.

Methods

A literature review was conducted using PubMed with search terms like “botulinum toxin” AND “emotion.” Relevant English-language articles from 2000–present were selected based on their examination of BoNT-A's influence on mood and facial feedback. Articles not in English and lacking relevance were excluded. Citation tracking was used to identify additional studies, and insights from the authors' clinical expertise further informed the review.

Results

A total of 46 articles were included based on their relevance to both BoNT-A and emotional states. BoNT-A-induced muscle relaxation can prevent specific muscle contraction and thereby disrupt feedback loops that reinforce mood, potentially enhancing positive emotions and promoting overall wellbeing. Studies suggest that BoNT-A injected into the glabella region can modulate amygdala activity, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and strengthen overall emotional resilience. By modulating facial expressions, BoNT-A can also enhance social interactions, increase positive emotional contagion, and contribute to a more positive self-perception.

Conclusion

BoNT-A shows promise as a novel approach to mood regulation and enhancement by altering facial feedback mechanisms. Its dual aesthetic and therapeutic benefits highlight its value in both dermatology and mental well-being.

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情绪的面孔：肉毒杆菌毒素、情绪解剖和情绪调节

面部表情深刻地影响着情感交流和幸福感。面部反馈假说认为，面部肌肉活动可以加强或调节情绪体验。A型肉毒杆菌毒素（BoNT-A）以其美学应用而闻名，它通过对面部肌肉组织和反馈机制的影响而成为情绪调节剂。它影响情绪的能力超出了审美改善，在情绪调节方面提供了潜在的治疗益处。目的本文献综述探讨面部解剖、情绪表达和BoNT-A的潜力之间的相互作用，以提高整体情绪和幸福感，超越审美改善。方法在PubMed上检索“肉毒杆菌毒素”和“情感”等关键词，进行文献综述。根据BoNT-A对情绪和面部反馈的影响，从2000年至今的相关英语文章中选出。非英语和缺乏相关性的文章被排除在外。引用跟踪用于确定其他研究，作者临床专业知识的见解进一步为综述提供了信息。结果根据与BoNT-A和情绪状态的相关性，共纳入46篇文章。bont - a诱导的肌肉放松可以防止特定的肌肉收缩，从而破坏强化情绪的反馈循环，潜在地增强积极情绪，促进整体健康。研究表明，将BoNT-A注射到眉间区可以调节杏仁核活动，减轻抑郁和焦虑症状，增强整体情绪弹性。通过调节面部表情，BoNT-A还可以加强社会互动，增加积极的情绪感染，并有助于更积极的自我认知。结论BoNT-A是一种通过改变面部反馈机制来调节和增强情绪的新方法。它的双重美学和治疗效益突出了它在皮肤科和精神健康的价值。

本文章由计算机程序翻译，如有差异，请以英文原文为准。

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来源期刊

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology DERMATOLOGY-

CiteScore

4.30

自引率

13.00%

发文量

818

审稿时长

>12 weeks

期刊介绍： The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology publishes high quality, peer-reviewed articles on all aspects of cosmetic dermatology with the aim to foster the highest standards of patient care in cosmetic dermatology. Published quarterly, the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology facilitates continuing professional development and provides a forum for the exchange of scientific research and innovative techniques. The scope of coverage includes, but will not be limited to: healthy skin; skin maintenance; ageing skin; photodamage and photoprotection; rejuvenation; biochemistry, endocrinology and neuroimmunology of healthy skin; imaging; skin measurement; quality of life; skin types; sensitive skin; rosacea and acne; sebum; sweat; fat; phlebology; hair conservation, restoration and removal; nails and nail surgery; pigment; psychological and medicolegal issues; retinoids; cosmetic chemistry; dermopharmacy; cosmeceuticals; toiletries; striae; cellulite; cosmetic dermatological surgery; blepharoplasty; liposuction; surgical complications; botulinum; fillers, peels and dermabrasion; local and tumescent anaesthesia; electrosurgery; lasers, including laser physics, laser research and safety, vascular lasers, pigment lasers, hair removal lasers, tattoo removal lasers, resurfacing lasers, dermal remodelling lasers and laser complications.