While TikTok inundates us with new beauty trends every day, not all of them are worth paying attention to. However, the “Botox in a bottle” videos have recently intrigued us and made us want to know more. As consultation with an expert remains necessary when it comes to skincare, we asked three dermatologists for their opinion on the subject.
The experts
- Dr. Dendy Engelman is a New York-based dermatologist and Mohs surgeon specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology.
- Dr. Tiffany Libby is a dermatologist, Mohs surgeon and cosmetic surgeon.
- Dr. Azadeh Shirazi is a dermatologist, specializing in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology. She is based in California.
What is “Botox in a bottle”?
“The term ‘Botox in a bottle’ was popularized on TikTok and refers to topical treatments with anti-aging properties,” explains Le. Dr. Tiffany Libby. These products reduce fine lines and wrinkles, plumping and firming the skin to make it smoother and more radiant. According to Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, these products act on skin cells and improve its natural composition. “They boost collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, while hydrating, improving cell renewal and strengthening the skin barrier.”
What ingredients should you prioritize?
THE Dr. Dendy Engelman suggests that hydration of the skin barrier is essential to maintain plump and elastic skin. Dehydrated skin in fact exaggerates the signs of aging: “Moisturizing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, squalane and niacinamide are to be favored in the same way as ingredients that improve the skin's ability to retain moisture, such as ceramides and peptides,” she explains.
In addition to moisturizing products, experts say it is important to use agents that stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, as well as those that protect and repair skin damage. Retinol, as well as retinol alternatives like matrixyl, argireline, peptides, exfoliants and antioxidants should be incorporated into your chosen formula in order to achieve long-term results. Finally, the Dr. Azadeh Shirazi reminds that it is essential to use daily sun protection.
With these recommendations in mind, check out a collection of products below that work like “Botox in a bottle.” Use them as a preventative treatment or to prolong results between two injections. “We lose about 1% of the collagen production in our skin every year starting in our 20s, so I recommend starting to use retinol and peptide products from that age on,” says Dr. Tiffany Libby.
Flagship products on the networks
The Argireline* 10% Solution and Matrixyl 10% + HA serum from The Ordinary
- Key Ingredients : We discovered these two products on TikTok. THE Dr. Tiffany Libby explains that they work like Botox injections in that they “reduce facial muscle contractions and help reduce wrinkles.”
- Benefits for the skin : TikTok users claim that these products help soften facial creases and inhibit the movement of facial muscles, especially at the top of the forehead and crow's feet (i.e. around the eyes )..
- How to use it : According to The Ordinary, a few drops of these products can be applied twice a day. Just avoid combining them with acids, vitamin C and resveratrol.
The hydrating formula
Biossance Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum with Squalane
- Key Ingredients : “Copper peptides play an important role in supporting skin structures by stimulating the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid,” explains the Dr. Dendy Engelman about Biossance serum.
- Benefits for the skin : Combined with squalane, this formula helps hydrate and plump the skin in the long term.
- How to use it : According to Biossancethis serum is applied morning and evening to clean skin.
Fill in wrinkles
RoC Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Serum
- Key Ingredients : For the Dr. Azadeh Shirazithis “excellent quality serum contains retinol and hyaluronic acid. It spreads very well and is quickly absorbed by the skin”.
- Benefits for the skin : It fills in fine lines and wrinkles, while making the skin both firm and supple.
- How to use it : According to Dr. Azadeh Shiraziit is best to apply it in the evening under a layer of moisturizer.
The smoothing mask
The Chantecaille organic + lifting mask
- Key Ingredients : This mask Chantecaille is enriched with plant stem cells, peptides, agents that tighten the skin and nourishing agents that smooth and lift it.
- Benefits for the skin : This mask is known for its instant lifting effect which particularly targets expression lines, on the forehead and crow's feet.
- How to use it : According to Chantecaille, this mask should be applied two to three times a week. Rinse off after 10 minutes, or leave on overnight for an intensive treatment.
The exfoliating formula
TLC Framboos™ Glycolic Night Serum from Drunk Elephant
- Key Ingredients : “This formula contains a blend of AHA glycolic acid to renew and resurface the skin for a smoother complexion,” explains the Dr. Azadeh Shirazi. “Salicylic acid fights sebum and helps unclog pores, while antioxidant-rich fruit extract hydrates and soothes the skin.”
- Benefits for the skin : By using this Drunk Elephant serum regularly, you will achieve smoother and luminous skin.
- How to use it : THE Dr. Azadeh Shirazi recommends using it once a week.
The friend of the neck (and décolleté)
Reserveage Beauty Firming Neck Cream
- Key Ingredients : “Reserveage Neck Firming Cream is a velvety hydrating anti-aging cream that harnesses the properties of microencapsulated copper peptides,” explains the Dr. Tiffany Libby. “Copper peptides penetrate the skin and give the appearance of collagen-rich skin by reducing sagging.”
- Benefits for the skin : According to Dr. Tiffany Libbythis product “improves skin tone and elasticity, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines.”
- How to use it : According to Reserveage Beauty, it should be used morning and evening for best results.
