Better Than Botox: 11 Insanely-Good Natural Botox Alternatives
Are you looking for natural alternatives to Botox? Here are 11 ways to naturally combat aging.
Botox, the most common brand name for botulinum toxin type A, is a neurotoxin injection designed to temporarily paralyze the muscle by blocking nerve signals.
Many people use it not only for cosmetic reasons related to anti-aging but also for other medical purposes, such as chronic migraines, excessive sweating and muscle spasms.
Although many women report having great experiences, others are coming forward to share the negative side effects they have experienced with Botox.
Some of these side effects have included: headaches, allergic reactions, vision problems, infection and more.
As more women are becoming aware of these potentially dangerous side effects, natural alternatives are gaining popularity in the beauty and wellness community.
In this post, we go over all the best natural alternatives to Botox, such as red light therapy, natural retinol, acupuncture and more, to help you age gracefully and avoid the need for potentially harmful (and expensive) Botox injections.
THIS POST IS ALL ABOUT THE BEST NATURAL ALTERNATIVES TO BOTOX
1) Red Light Therapy
Starting with a bang, red light and near-infrared therapy is possibly one of the best natural alternatives to Botox.
Red Light Therapy is scientifically proven to stimulate skin cells and increase collagen- A key component of youthful skin.
After 20 years old, we lose 1% of our collagen yearly; this decline directly relates to aging as collagen is the reason for firm, hydrated and elastic skin.
You can purchase at-home red light therapy masks and panels or have a session done by an esthetician.
I started with the red light mask and moved on to an at-home panel which I highly recommend as you can use it for so many other health-related concerns.
2) Natural Retinol
Another great natural anti-aging powerhouse is Bakuchiol. Bakuchiol is a plant-based natural alternative to retinol.
Studies have found when applied for 12 weeks, it had a similar effect without the irritating side effects as traditional synthetic retinol.
It has been shown to help increase collagen, brighten the skin, and provide antioxidants to help protect the skin from free radicals.
This ingredient can be found in many clean skincare brands, but my absolute favourite is the HERBIVORE Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative.
3) Face Taping
Face taping is a great low-cost alternative to Botox.
This beauty hack involves taping specific areas of the face before bed to help prevent the formation of wrinkles and fine lines by limiting facial movement when you sleep.
On the nights I tape my face, the lines on my forehead appear much smoother in the morning versus when I sleep without the tape.
This non-invasive beauty technique is a great at-home botox alternative and something you should consider adding to your nightly routine.
4) Good Quality Sleep
This is the best free hack for anti-aging. When you sleep, your body regenerates itself, producing new skin cells and collagen.
It also aids in hydration levels, manages stress, reduces the appearance of dark circles, lowers inflammation and so much more!
Getting 8+ hours should be non-negotiable and is the best FREE botox alternative.
5) Face Acupuncture
Facial acupuncture, an ancient practice from Chinese medicine, has become increasingly popular among beauty and wellness enthusiasts due to its potential anti-aging benefits.
How it works is little needles are applied to various points of the face to increase circulation, promote collagen production and reduce inflammation.
I noticed the muscles in my face to be more relaxed after I tried facial acupuncture, and as a result, my forehead lines appeared smoother.
This ancient practice is a good option for someone serious about natural anti-aging alternatives!
READ: The Best Non-Toxic Makeup Products To Add To Your Collection
6) Microneedling
Besides red light therapy, this is my FAVOURITE skin treatment to help increase collagen production.
How it works is an esthetician uses a pen-like machine that creates micro-injuries to the skin, which helps to stimulate collagen and elastin production.
I struggled with acne when I was a teenager, and I originally tried micro-needling to help with my acne scars.
Once I saw how it also helped my fine lines, I was hooked!
I usually do this treatment 3-4 times per year and will continue to do so as I get older!
7) Gua Sha
Another ancient Chinese practice that aids in lymphatic drainage and facial sculpting is Gua Sha.
Gua Sha can also help to increase circulation which can help with essential nutrients being delivered to the skin.
This is a great low-cost beauty tool to add to your morning routine!
READ: 7 Life-Changing Self Care Ideas For Women
8) Sleeping On Your Back
As a life-long side sleeper, this one for me is the hardest to adopt.
When you sleep, you spend on average 8 hours in the same position.
For me that position is on my side with my face smooshed into the pillow.
The problem with sleeping on your side is that pressure from your pillow for an extended period can cause wrinkles to form.
Although sleeping on your back can be challenging, you will thank yourself in the long term!
9) Sun Protection
Another easy way to help prevent rapid aging is to protect yourself from the sun by applying sunscreen and wearing hats.
Excessive UV exposure can cause damage to collagen and elastin fibres, and cause hyperpigmentation, not to mention skin cancer!
By making sunscreen apart of your morning routine it will help you avoid sun damage and prevent premature aging.
10) Castor Oil
Castor oil, derived from the castor bean plant, has recently become more popular for its anti-aging properties.
It’s high fatty acid and antioxidant properties help to hydrate and promote collagen in the skin.
I use this on my fine lines and under my eyes, and I notice my skin is significantly more hydrated!
Castor oil is a great addition to your anti-aging skincare routine especially if you suffer from dry skin.
11) Diet & Hydration
Besides sleep, the most important lifestyle factor for healthy skin is your diet & keeping hydrated.
Making sure you drink enough water and eat the right amount of protein, fibre, fresh fruits and vegetables will ensure you get the essential nutrients needed for optimal skin health.
Focusing on nutrient-rich foods will directly reflect on your skin and help to fight against aging.
READ: 11 Weird But Effective Ancient Beauty Rituals (You Won’t Believe #6!)
