As we reach our late twenties, most of us begin to consider options for preserving our youthful skin. This includes avoiding the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, or preventing them from getting worse.
While proper skincare regimens can help with slowing down the advancing skin aging, most of us would rather like the wrinkles to disappear altogether. And this is usually done with different skin procedures with Botox being the most commonly practiced.
However, you may have a number of reasons not to go the Botox way. This includes the high prices of the procedure, accessibility, and possible side effects.
So, the question is, are there any Botox alternatives? If there are, are they as effective as Botox? We will answer all these questions in this Chlorine post.
Botox … the anti-aging star
One of the most well-known ways to ward off wrinkles and other signs of aging is botulinum toxin Type A (Botox), and it is a prescription drug that is injected into the facial muscles.
Botox works by stopping the contraction of the muscles injected with it so that they appear relaxed and tender. Botox is effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and preventing new ones from forming. However, this treatment is too expensive for many. Prices vary by beauty center and country, but you can expect to pay $ 100 to over $ 500 per treatment depending on the areas you treat.
The effect of botox is temporary, so you’ll need to repeat treatments to maintain the effect. One study also found that people who used Botox reported a decrease in the expression of their emotions because emotions are linked to the brain through facial functions.
The 7 effective Botox alternatives
1. Various types of injections
Desport is like botox and is a neurotoxin made from the same type of botulinum toxin A, but the dosing technique and application are slightly different.
Both Dysport and Botox seem to give similar results, but Dysport works a little faster. However, no formal studies have been conducted by the companies so far.
While Dysport appears to be less expensive, it requires the use of more combination material to achieve the same results as Botox, so in the end, the cost is usually somewhat similar.
Mayo Block is another injection made with type B botulinum toxin. Because it is also a neurotoxin, it works in the same way as other injection options. However it is not effective, and the effect does not last long, the effects of Mayo Block last approximately 3 to 4 months, as opposed to 5 to 6 months of botox.
Pros of using these injections:
We have to know that the effects of these other injectable therapies are similar to those of Botox.
These treatments may be expensive. It also works in a similar way to Botox, so if you are looking for a completely different alternative in terms of cost and outcome, this is not the best option for you.
2. FaceXercises
If an exercise can help ward off aging in the body then why not help us in the face as well? Celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston and Cindy Crawford are said to do special exercises for their faces known as Facial Exercises, which includes cupping and facial massages to improve blood circulation. These types of exercises are also said to help the lymphatic system remove toxins from the tissues.
The advantages of facial exercises are that they are natural and do not require any injections or needles. As for its disadvantages, its sessions may be considered expensive, with an average of about $ 380 for the initial visit only, and the providers of these services are also limited.
3. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a relatively new anti-aging method, but it is a promising procedure with widespread popularity that is increasing day by day. One study showed that it could help improve facial elasticity and moisturize the skin, leading to fewer wrinkles.
The advantages of acupuncture are that it is natural and effective, although studies are limited. As for the negatives, it may be difficult to find an acupuncture therapist who specializes in facial treatments. It may also be expensive and the results are temporary. If you have an aversion to or fear of needles, acupuncture is not for you.
4. Face stickers
You can apply sticky face patches to wrinkle-prone areas. It should help reduce the appearance of wrinkles in the areas where you apply them.
One of its most important advantages is that it is easy to find, is inexpensive, costs about $ 20 a box, and you do not need to go under the pinching injections.
But a modest study showed that while pad users reported significant improvements, plastic surgeons couldn’t detect any real difference in the skin. But these may only be claims by doctors forcing you to pay more and resort to plastic surgery.
5. Vitamins
Your skin cannot improve without taking vitamins or eating foods that contain enough of them. Major supplements may help improve collagen production in your skin. It may also have an antioxidant effect that helps prevent skin damage with aging and loss of elasticity.
The best supplements to take include vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids. Vitamins are readily available and affordable for most people, and they also provide important nutrients for your body as a whole.
But you need to be careful when purchasing supplements – look for high-quality supplements from a trusted source. And be sure to stick to the recommended dosages or consult your doctor.
6. Face creams
Some brands of creams on the market advertise that they treat wrinkles, and these ads may be real if you choose correctly. Look for antioxidants or creams that have a direct effect on collagen production and metabolism in facial skin cells.
The option to use face creams is very practical because it is easy to use and find and there are options for every budget.
But with so many types of anti-aging creams on the market, it can be difficult to know what really works. So it is a good idea to talk to a dermatologist about the recommended creams because some creams require a prescription, or they may be expensive but results are guaranteed.
7. Chemical peeling
Chemical peels are used to treat acne, reduce the appearance of discolored skin, and fight signs of aging. A chemical peel requires some time to recover after its procedure, ranging from 24 hours to 2 to 3 weeks. However, you will start to see results in less than a day.
Chemical peels are safe and effective, however, your skin will continue to age, so you may need another chemical peel after a while as more wrinkles appear.
However, you do need to see a skin care professional to perform this type of peeling. The results are not immediate and may take from 1 to 14 days to fully appear. Recovery after treatment varies depending on the chemical peel used. Your skin may appear red and swollen, and the peeling ranges from minimal to severe. For deep peels, you may need a surgical dressing on the wound.
Some tips to keep your skin healthy and youthful
Taking good care of your skin is in fact the best way to resist the aging effects. Follow these simple skincare tips for a youthful-looking face :
- Adopt a simple night skincare routine.
- Always apply sunscreen outdoors.
- Wear large-lens sunglasses to help reduce sun exposure on the delicate skin around your eyes.
- Wear a hat when you are in the sun for added protection.
- Drink a lot of water to keep your skin hydrated.
- Remove makeup before bed.
- Start using a high-quality anti-aging cream after the age of 25.
- Eat a balanced and healthy diet that is rich in vitamins.
