Everyone knows that BOTOX® injections work great against certain types of facial wrinkles. But a lot of people simply can't afford the cost of a round of BOTOX® therapy ($300-$1000). Others are uncomfortable with the thought of having a neurotoxic poison injected under their skin. And many have heard horror stories about BOTOX® injections gone wrong - leading to droopy eyelids and limited facial paralysis.
Fortunately, there are a variety of skin care products and procedures that are viable BOTOX® alternatives. We will briefly discuss a variety of techniques we think are fit to be known as BOTOX® alternatives.
There are a variety of products that work as BOTOX® alternatives by relaxing the facial muscles. On this website, we profile the very effective Argireline (also known as acetyl hexapeptide-3) and the less promising GABA (gamma amino butyric acid).
Pros:
Relaxation of facial muscles leads to reduction of tension-related wrinkles
Topical application
May be used anywhere on the face
Over-the-counter availability
Relatively inexpensive
Can be combined with other ingredients for added effectiveness
Gradual, more natural wrinkle reduction
Zero recovery time
Cons:
Must be used daily
Results are not as immediate as BOTOX® injections, but usually are seen within 2 weeks
Evaluation:
Argireline is outstanding among BOTOX® alternatives. The Complexion MD formula is by far the most effective of those we have seen - containing Argireline along with other potent peptides and botanicals.
Both Restylane® and Hylaform® are dermal fillers - substances injected under the skin to add shape and volume to the face. They can be used on parts of the face where the FDA doesn't allow BOTOX® injections. Additionally, dermal fillers can be employed against kinds of wrinkles that BOTOX® injections don't treat.
Pros:
Add volume and shape to the face
Instant results
Relatively short recovery time (1 hour)
Can be used on wrinkles not related to muscular tension
Cons:
About the same price as BOTOX® injections
Not a permanent solution
Needles are still involved
Evaluation:
Dermal fillers certainly have their place among BOTOX® alternatives. Dermal fillers can be used in conjunction with other treatments to remove wrinkles. The downside is the expense, the non-permanent nature of the treatment and their limited role in wrinkle reduction.
Skin resurfacing can range from the expensive, laser resurfacing, to the minor home exfoliation techniques. All are viable BOTOX® alternatives. Because any kind of resurfacing removes the outer, dead layers of skin and reveals the younger, living layer underneath, they aid in wrinkle reduction and overall facial health.
Pros:
Contribute to overall facial health
At-home versions are inexpensive
Can be added to any wrinkle reduction program
Cons:
Chemical peels and laser resurfacing are expensive and require significant recovery time
Relatively small amount of wrinkle reduction
Evaluation:
Skin resurfacing is a viable BOTOX® alternative but should not be used alone. Combining exfoliation or exfoliating ingredients with topical BOTOX® alternatives for the best wrinkle reduction program.
BOTOX® is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc.
Daily updates, current date: November 12, 2024, 10:20 am
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