When it comes to the smoothing out of wrinkles and fine lines, Botox (botulinum toxin type A) is perhaps the prevailing method of treatment. And it is quite effective, too.
Botox is a medication that is injected directly into facial muscles. It works by preventing the muscles from contracting, which is why the skin does not crease and looks smooth. It not only reduces the appearance of fine lines, but it can also prevent new ones from developing. However, Botox is quite pricey and the effects of it are temporary; you need to get an injection every five to six months.
On top of that, there are some concerns that people may have about Botox. For one, Botox is essentially a neurotoxin, so it is perfectly reasonable for you to have second thoughts about injecting it into your body. Secondly, it is commonly known that Botox can affect your ability to make any facial expressions. Finally, there have also been reports of people experiencing a reduction in their emotional range, due to the fact that our brain, the ability to have emotions and our facial expressions are all closely connected.
Considering all these very pertinent points, it is not surprising that you may wish to consider some other options besides Botox when it comes to wrinkle prevention and treatment. Here are 7 other options that we have compiled for you.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are an option for those who are considering not just wrinkle reduction, but treatment for skin discolouration and acne as well. Chemical peels are deemed both safe and effective as a treatment. However, there is the matter of some significant downtime required post-treatment, and that can range anywhere from a day to three weeks, depending on how deep the peel goes. Expect to see redness and to experience swelling. You will usually be able to see the positive results within a day but it takes up to two weeks for the full effects to be seen.
Acupuncture
Many of us are probably familiar with or have heard about the benefits of acupuncture by now. It is largely accepted as a pain-relief method for issues that range from osteoarthritis to toothaches to even labour pains.
Now it seems that acupuncture may also be an effective anti-ageing tool. One particular study has indicated that acupuncture can help skin retain moisture and it can help the skin on your face to maintain elasticity and tone, all of which will help to reduce the look of fine lines and creases. The benefit of acupuncture is that it is a natural treatment and there are no toxins involved. On the other hand, the effects are temporary and the costs per treatment can add up.
No More Frown(ies)
Another natural, vegan and relatively inexpensive option is a face patch or Frownie. Simply put, these patches of stiff material are stuck onto the various areas of the face that are more likely to wrinkle such as the forehead, temples and even the neck.
It seems these facial patches were a well-kept Hollywood secret (until now). They work by constricting the facial muscles, keeping them from their constant frowning, squinting and smiling, all the things that make your skin wrinkle. These patches are applied nightly. You wet them and place them on the face. They harden as they dry, restricting muscle movement in that way. For even better results, leave them on overnight.
Vitamin Supplements
Vitamins C, E and carotenoids are supplements that can help to increase the production of collagen and help prevent damage to the skin caused by free radicals. The thing with vitamin supplements, though, is that they may be more effective as a preventative method against the development of wrinkles and fine lines and less as a treatment for them. On the bright side, vitamins are a relatively affordable expense and also provides your body with added nutrition.
Anti-Wrinkle Creams
Before you make an appointment to get a Botox injection, you may want to consider trying the many very advanced anti-ageing facial creams available on the market. Look for those that contain antioxidants or those that claim to regulate cell production, as those will affect collagen production and the speed at which skin cells regenerate.
For natural alternatives, Boswellia has recently come under the skin-care spotlight. Boswellia is a herbal extract that is taken from the Boswellia serrata tree and besides its anti-wrinkle prowess, it has also been touted for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and even cancer-preventing properties. Boswellia cream is quite easily available for purchase these days in stores and online.
With so many different kinds of creams available on the market, it can be a bit overwhelming. If necessary, seek advice from a dermatologist who can help to recommend a more appropriate cream for you to try.