Throughout 2024, we’ve seen a boom in trends going around on TikTok claiming to be just as good, if not better, than getting Botox—but are they actually doing what you think they are?
Many use the platform as a way to find innovative tips, trends and tricks that can make day-to-day practices easier. However, not all these trends are actually as beneficial to your skin in the long term as you may think.
Below, Dr. Akis Ntonos, founder of Aion Aesthetics in NYC and partner of Certainly Health, has revealed whether the skincare secrets you see online are actually beneficial for your skin in the long run.
1. Beef Tallow
Recently claiming to be nature’s answer to Botox, a new trend on TikTok has seen skincare gurus singing the praises of beef tallow as a face cream to help with acne. Yes, people on the internet really have been rubbing rendered animal fat into their faces, as it supposedly helps with acne.
Dr. Akis Ntonos says: “While it may appear strange, beef tallow can actually act as a moisturizer for the face due to the fatty components that it contains, resulting in a healthier-looking glow and a more youthful appearance overall.
“However, keep in mind that everyone’s skin reacts differently to products, so while it may give some the same appearance as Botox, it may cause additional irritation or worsen acne in others. McDonald’s also used to use the substance to fry its chips, so it could give your skin an unpleasant odour!”
2. Face Yoga
Having accumulated thousands of hashtags on TikTok, another skin trend claiming to be just as good as the results of Botox is face yoga.
Essentially, the trend is engaging in a series of exercises and different massages for the face that are supposed to sculpt facial muscles and reduce wrinkles. Much of it involves massaging areas such as the forehead, jawline, and sides of your neck in order to stretch skin away from the central part of the face to sculpt and tone the muscles.
Dr. Akis Ntonos says: “The term ‘yoga’ implies that the trend is supposed to be soothing and relaxing while having a ton of wellness benefits, and though this can very well be the case for some people, stretching and pinching the skin may feel somewhat uncomfortable or actually worsen skin conditions rather than improve them.
“For example, for those who suffer from acne-prone skin or redness, touching the face consistently may exacerbate the spread of acne-inducing bacteria.
“What’s more, this trend is supposed to help with wrinkles, but massaging and manipulating the skin in this way can actually have the opposite effect. Stretching the skin, especially around the eyes, which are thinner and more sensitive to sagging as we get older, will only enhance wrinkles.”
3. Flaxseed Gel
Another trend people have been going crazy about online that can have the same benefits as Botox without actually getting the injections themselves is flaxseed gel.
Flaxseeds are small but mighty oil seeds known for their rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fibre, and antioxidants, all of which contribute to overall health. When it comes to skincare, flaxseeds can be made into a gel that, when applied to your skin, boosts hydration, reduces inflammation, and promotes the skin’s elasticity.
Dr. Akis Ntonos says: “Flaxseed is a great ingredient that offers a whole host of health and cosmetic benefits. For example, it works as an excellent natural conditioner for the hair. When used in place of hair gel, it can add shine, strengthen the hair, and promote a healthy scalp.
“In addition to hair care, it serves as a great natural moisturiser. It is high in antioxidants, helping to protect the skin against environmental aggressors.
“However, for those that are looking to get the same results as Botox, it’s important to highlight that the effects of flaxseed gel are entirely different from those of Botox, and the two should not really be used interchangeably.
“It is likely that we are seeing people turning to flaxseed gel as a substitute for Botox, as a way to test out changes in their appearance before committing to more permanent cosmetic procedures. However, using flaxseed gel isn’t a realistic way to preview the effects of Botox; instead, by consulting with a professional, you can receive personalised advice and recommendations.”
4. Barbie Botox
Inspired by the Barbie movie last year, many people started turning to TikTok for advice about a new trend called ‘Barbie’ Botox. This trend saw people having Botox injected into the trapezius muscles at the back of the neck to diminish the size of the shoulders and elongate the neck, essentially to give off the look of Barbie.
Dr. Akis Ntonos says: “Barbie” Botox involves having Botox injected into the trapezius muscles and can be a great procedure for those that suffer with a lot of pain or tension in the back of the neck or those that want to elongate the look of the face.
“However, as the trapezius is one of the most crucial muscles for keeping the head up, it is imperative that you receive the treatment from a qualified and reputable injector.
“Really, the trapezius must only be injected by a medical professional; otherwise, you run the risk of developing postural issues or not being able to hold your neck up properly.”
5. Jelly Roll Botox
Have you ever looked at your eyes in the mirror and noticed a ‘roll’ appear under them when you smile?
This is referred to as a “jelly roll,” and the newest trend involves having Botox injected beneath the eyes to eliminate the wrinkle. This allows your eye to remain open wider when you grin. The treatment is not new; in fact, it was rather popular in the early 2000s.
Dr. Akis Ntonos says: “When Botox is injected in and around the eyes, ptosis, or droopy eyelids, can occur, as it can cause the Botox to travel into the eyelid. However, because Botox is a temporary treatment, drooping eyelids will go away on their own after 4 to 6 weeks usually.
“It is important to note that the eyelid droop often occurs when the practitioner lacks proper training and sufficient experience. They may inject Botox into the wrong area or use an excessively high dose, resulting in muscle weakness and drooping. This could lead to difficulty fully opening your eyes or vision problems.”