Can Facial Massages Actually Replace Botox?
A non-invasive approach might be the newest way to lasting youthfulness.
Aging is a natural, beautiful process of life. But the beauty industry severely warns against signs of older age. Wrinkles, lines, and creases are seen as something we should want to get rid of. That's where the discussion of preventative botox comes into the picture. Many young people have gotten botox at a much earlier age than previous generations for these precautionary measures, but many dermatologists and estheticians also warn against this.
Similar to this, not only do many women crave a youthful appearance, but according to a study done by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 92 percent of clinicians saw an increase in their business between 2020 and 2022. As beauty trends are so cyclical, many may end up regretting invasive procedures like the celebrity-approved "buccal fat removal" or "cat eye lift."
But could there be a new take on anti-aging? Needles and foreign substances entering the face result in the invasion nature of Botox. However, some claim that there are other natural ways to tighten facial muscles, improve circulation, and lessen the appearance of fine lines. The unique benefits of the traditional Chinese medicine tool, Gua Sha, have become extremely popular and well-known thanks to wellness influencers on TikTok. The benefits of this facial massage can also be found in spas for a less do-it-yourself approach. Establishments like Face Gym tone facial muscles without any intrusion. The popular NuFace microcurrent facial toner delivers Bella Hadid-like sculpted cheekbones within seconds. L'OFFICIEL breaks down all the ways that you can refresh your appearance without invasive procedures.
Facial Workouts
Facial workouts have been all the rage recently. From celebrities like Bella Hadid and Selena Gomez to your favorite influencers, so many believe in the miracles of this facial massage that lifts, tones, and sculpts. Located in NYC, Face Gym is a cult favorite. The "home of facial fitness," Face Gym has everything from a hands-only workout to a Cyro lift workout to reduce tension. When the face is tense, we hold it in ways that lead to wrinkles and fine lines—so getting rid of strain is a must. The face is made up of 40 muscles. Why wouldn't we want to work these out the same way we do our bodies?
Gua Sha
The ancient Chinese medicine tool has become extremely popular and well-loved in recent years. Gua Sha promotes circulation throughout the face and can help with lymphatic drainage. Because you can use the tool to massage out fine lines, there are also anti-aging benefits to Gua Sha-ing. There are many shapes and types of tools, but all that matters is the technique that's used.
Face Yoga
Similar yet different to facial workouts, face yoga takes a more relaxed approach. TikToker KokoFaceYoga, who has worked with celebrities like Kim Kardashian, brings these techniques to the public with her account. Tackling everything from asymmetry, wrinkles, hooded eyes, and more, face yoga uses small but powerful movements to encourage a healthy, beautiful face.
Microcurrent Facial Toners
Facial toners, like the popular NuFace, use a combination of powerful microcurrents and a soothing shape to instantly sculpt cheekbones, lift eyebrows, and tone jawline. NuFace claims that their devices "stimulate the recovery of damaged tissue, re-educate the muscles, improve muscle tone, aid in lymphatic drainage, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles."
