Top 7 Facial Exercises to Do Instead of Botox

The Business of Botox

The marketing of Botox has grown so much that even your dentist will be able to do it for you. It is a very profitable business that promises reduced fine lines and wrinkles.  Botox involves injecting a form of botulinum toxin into the skin, which paralyzes the underlying muscles temporarily. This means that frequent treatments are necessary to maintain results, which can be both costly and time-consuming. Furthermore, as with any medical procedure, there are potential side effects. Some individuals may experience pain at the injection site, swelling, bruising, headaches, or even more serious complications such as drooping eyelids. There's also the argument of authenticity, with some individuals preferring a more natural aging process rather than a 'frozen' look that can sometimes result from Botox., but for those who prefer a more natural approach, facial massages, and exercises offer a worthy alternative.

Making regular facial exercises a part of your nighttime ritual (and morning if you are an overachiever) can help improve blood circulation, boost collagen production, and tone facial muscles.

Some important things to remember before getting started:

1. Always use a face oil so you do not cause friction and you are rubbing good plant oils into your skin vs. chemicals or preservatives which might be in lotions.

2. Use clean hands - yes this is not obvious to everyone

3. Works better when you open and close with an affirmation of self love: "I am radient" or "My skin glows"

Create a five minute ritual to do daily - it should only take 5 minutes to do these proven seven massage techniques:

1. Lymphatic Drainage Massage:

   • This gentle massage technique focuses on stimulating the lymph nodes around the face and neck. It aids in reducing puffiness and promoting the removal of toxins. Using the fingertips, make light, sweeping motions from the center of your face outward. 

2. Pinch and Release:

   • Gently pinch the skin using your thumb and index finger, moving along the natural contours of your face. This method stimulates blood flow and collagen production, making the skin appear plumper.

3. The Brow Smoother:

   • Place both thumbs on the inner corners of your eyebrows. Move your thumbs outwards along your eyebrows, applying gentle pressure. Repeat a few times. This exercise can help reduce the appearance of horizontal forehead lines.

4. Cheek Lift:

   • Smile with your lips pursed together and try to lift your cheeks towards your eyes as high as possible. Hold for a few seconds and then relax. Repeating this can tone the cheek muscles and give a lifted appearance over time.

5. The Neck Tightener:

   • Tilt your head back slightly and pucker up your lips, as if you're trying to kiss the ceiling. This stretches and tightens the neck muscles, countering sagging.

6. Eye Circles:

   • Using your index fingers, place them on the outer corners of your eyebrows. Now, gently circle your fingers around the eyes following the top of the brow and then the lower eyelid, going inwards towards the nose. This can help in reducing crow's feet and under-eye lines.

7. The Jaw Definer:

   • Clench your teeth softly and open your mouth slightly. Now, with the heel of your palms, apply pressure on your jawline, moving your palms upwards towards your ears. This exercise can help in defining the jawline and reducing the appearance of jowls.

Do each exercise 2-5x for younger-looking skin. Consistency is key. While the effects might not be as immediate as Botox, these natural methods have the added benefit of no side effects and can promote overall facial health and well-being. 

If you want a face oil with fresh plant oils made just for your skin type and concerns, try our custom face oil.