For centuries people have been looking for the answer to stop the aging process. You may even recall being a kid sitting in a classroom and hearing of Ponce de Leon’s search for one of life’s greatest myths, The Fountain of Youth. And while we know the anti-aging waters may not be real, people around the world have found their real version of an anti-aging remedy in Botox injections.
In the United States alone, Botox sales are believed to have crossed the $3 billio mark last year. And while injections are popular, they don’t come without their share of side effects.
Possible side effects and complications from Botox include swelling, bruising, flu-like symptoms, droopy eyelids, and eye dryness among other things. In severe yet less common scenarios, Botox can cause vision problems, trouble speaking, and breathing issues.
Now if you want to reduce the wrinkles in your face but rather not deal with the risks of Botox, or just not a fan of needles, keep reading as we give you five Botox alternatives.
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FaceXercise
As awkward as the word may sound, faceXercise is a process several celebrities in Hollywood use as a natural alternative to Botox. This method uses facial massaging and cupping to improve blood circulation in the face. FaceXercise also stimulates the lymphatic system in the body to get rid of toxins.
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Vitamins
Vitamins are both more affordable and natural than Botox and other alternatives. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids are items you can purchase in many stores or online, and they won’t break the bank. With that said though, you’ll want to get higher quality vitamins to see more noticeable results.
Also, please know vitamins should be viewed as more of preventatives for wrinkles, not cures.
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Facial Creams
The facial creams route is definitely an accessible option on this list. The market is flooded with different anti-aging creams. From Olay, to Neutrogena, to Eucerin, to more expensive and lesser-known products, there is no shortage of anti-aging creams you can try.
However, whatever cream you may choose to use, make sure it contains retinol. Retinol is often referred to as the “anti-aging molecule” because it promotes skin-renewal and reduces lines and wrinkles.
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Ultherapy
This is again a non-invasive treatment. During an Ultherapy session, an applicator is placed against the skin, and energy from the applicator targets areas of the skin where production of new collagen and elastin are most needed.
Ideally, after the treatment, the skin should look tightened and wrinkles a little less visible.
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Other Injectables
Now if the Botox needles didn’t bother you but rather the side effects, there are other injectable products available that you could use to fight aging. Juvederm injectable fillers, for example, are often used to treat moderate to severe cases of wrinkling.
Choosing Between the Botox Alternatives
As with anything you’re planning on putting on your face or in your skin, make sure you do your research when deciding between Botox alternatives. Depending on which treatment piques your interest, you may need to consult a medical professional first.
And if you’ve actually used one of these alternatives already, share your stories and write for us. Our readers would love to hear from you.
