Cream-serum Bark with Botox effect against expression lines and age wrinkles

Updated: 06/09/2021 14:48:10

For several decades, Botox has been the most effective method of rejuvenation. It is also called “beauty injections”. This procedure quickly smoothes out facial wrinkles. But not all women decide to do it. An alternative to painful injections can be modern cosmetics with the Botox effect. To take advantage of their benefits, you need to understand how they work and what should be in the composition.

What is the effect of Botox

During this procedure, botulinum toxin is injected under the skin. It blocks nerve impulses reaching the facial muscles and paralyzes them. As a result, facial wrinkles are smoothed out. The effect of the procedure appears after 1-2 weeks. The face looks toned, fresh, rejuvenated. This result lasts up to six months.

But there are many contraindications for Botox injections, so they are recommended for healthy women to slow down age-related changes. If the procedure is carried out incorrectly, there may be negative consequences:

1. allergic reactions;
2. drooping eyelid, ptosis;
3. weakening of skin tone;
4. the face turns into a lifeless mask.

Recently, other substances with the same effect have been discovered. The effect of Botox is the relaxation of facial muscles, leading to the smoothing of wrinkles. As part of the cream, such substances penetrate into the muscles slowly. Therefore, the effect does not occur immediately. It will not affect deep age wrinkles, nasolabial folds, or sagging skin. But such cosmetics have many advantages over Botox injections:

1. has almost no contraindications, except for individual intolerance;
2. there is no risk of infection and inflammation;
3. no side effects;
4. natural composition;
5. ease of use;
6. cumulative effect;
7. can be used for the area around the eyes;
8. additional caring properties.

How does cosmetics with Botox effect work?

Such products contain botulinum-like substances that have the ability to relax facial muscles. They work almost the same way as Botox injections, only slower. Results from using the cream can be expected no earlier than 1.5-2 months.

These products are especially effective on the first expression lines. Elena Eliseeva, a Vichy medical expert, advises how to distinguish them from age-related wrinkles: if they smooth out after a full night’s sleep, these are expression wrinkles.

What should be included

Such products do not contain botulinum toxin; this substance does not penetrate the upper layer of the epidermis and quickly disintegrates. Some peptides have this effect, which can also relax muscles. They penetrate fibroblasts, exerting a muscle relaxant effect.

1. Argareline. The result is an effect similar to Botox. You need to look for the names Argireline, Acetyl hexapeptide or hexapeptide in the cream.
2. Another effective peptide, matrixyl or Matrixyl, activates collagen synthesis. It fills wrinkles, reducing their severity. In the composition of cosmetic products it may be indicated as Palmitoyl pentapeptide.
3. Synthetic peptide similar to Syn-Ake viper venom. It paralyzes the muscles.
4. Adenosine is the source of cell energy. When it enters the tissue, the muscles relax.
5. There are several plants that contain peptides similar to botulinum toxin. These are hibiscus seeds, ginger extracts, anise.

To enhance the effect, such cosmetics should contain moisturizing components, herbal extracts, and vegetable oils. Then the cream will have a comprehensive effect.

How to choose?

First of all, you need to study the label. It must indicate one of the following components:

• argireline - has been used in the production of cosmetics for more than ten years. It appears quite strongly after application, giving a slight feeling of numbness;
• matrixyl is a stimulating peptide that increases natural collagen production. Most often serves as an auxiliary substance;
• inyline is an improved version of the first peptide on the list. Its task is to relax muscles and stimulate collagen production;
• SYN-AKE is a substance that is similar in action to snake venom. It penetrates the skin more easily and is often included in Asian cosmetics;
• SNAP-8 is a mix of various substances that perfectly smooths out wrinkles.

This list can also include natural nucleosides, for example, adenosine.

In addition, it is desirable that the rejuvenation effect is supported by other components that are aimed at hydration and nutrition.

What should you pay attention to?

There are substances that should not be present in high-quality cosmetics due to their toxicity. Harmful substances that can adversely affect health include:

• Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben) - debates about them still do not subside, but scientists agree that parabens are toxic and can accumulate in the body.
• Formaldehyde (DMDM hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl urea, Sodium hydroxymethyl glycinate, Diazolidinyl urea, Benzylhemiformal, Quaternium-15, Methenamine, 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol ) is a carcinogen, toxic in high concentrations. Used as a preservative to increase the shelf life of the product. In Japan and Switzerland it is prohibited; in the USA and European countries it is allowed only for products that need to be washed off. In Russia, the use of formaldehyde is not regulated in any way.
• Hydroquinone - used to whiten pigmentation. It is a toxic substance, causing premature aging and increasing the risk of cancer. With prolonged use, withdrawal syndrome or ochronosis is possible. In Europe it is banned; in Russia its use is not regulated in any way.
• Ethanolamine (Ethanolamine, Monoethanolamine/MEA, Diethanolamine/DEA, Triethanolamine/TEA, 2-aminoethanol) – can cause structural changes in the skin, causing premature aging. In the USA and Europe, it is allowed to be included in those products that must be thoroughly washed off with water.

If you don’t want to carefully read each label, parsing small letters and long words, you can use a special beauty application to check the composition of cosmetic products.

Advantages and disadvantages

Compared to beauty injections, products with the Botox effect have the following advantages:

• There are practically no contraindications.
• If the injection is given by an inexperienced specialist, the appearance of a “mask” is still possible. When using the cream, such consequences are completely excluded.
• Can be applied to any area of ​​the face, unlike injections that are “placed” in the upper part of the face to avoid sagging.
• At the moment of injection, the tissue is injured, which increases the risk of infection.

Flaws:

• Wrinkles decrease more slowly.
• In terms of price, skincare products with the Botox effect are very expensive.
• To eliminate deep creases, more radical methods are needed.
• Not every product declared as an alternative to injections will give the desired result; in addition, much depends on the initial condition.
• Wrinkles that appear as a result of chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation will not be eliminated, since the action of Botox is aimed specifically at smoothing out wrinkles that appear as a result of facial movements.
• If you stop using it, it may return to its previous state.

Rules for the use of such funds

It is recommended to use Botox-effect creams no earlier than 25 years of age. Up to 30 years of age, you can apply them pointwise to areas with crow’s feet, folds on the bridge of the nose, and near the lips. Cosmetologist Olga Fem recommends that women from 30 to 45 years old use such products constantly, in courses.

There are several recommendations that, if followed, will increase the effectiveness of such cosmetics:

1. Such products should be used daily for 1.5-2 months;
2. such cosmetics have a cumulative effect, so it is recommended to repeat the course no earlier than after 3-6 months;
3. before applying a cream with peptides, you should not use products with fruit or AHA acids;
4. some products can be addictive, so creams need to be changed;
5. you need to take into account contraindications, there are especially many of them for cosmetics with viper venom;
6. Apply the product to a cleansed face;
7. When applying, it is recommended to massage the skin with your fingertips;
8. for daily use, makeup can be applied only after 20-30 minutes;
9. Once a week it is recommended to use scrubs to exfoliate the stratum corneum of the epidermis;
10. After 50 years, there is no point in using such cosmetics - they do not work against age-related wrinkles

Tips for use

• to achieve and maintain visible results, the cream should be used daily for a long period of time;
• in the evening, a product containing a muscle relaxant is best applied after peeling;
• cream with peptides should not be combined with products that contain AHAs and other acids, as they will destroy all active ingredients;
• to achieve maximum benefits, the cream is best combined with self-massage;
• the deadline for continuous use of a cream with Botox effect is no more than six months;
• It is almost impossible to correct age-related changes after 60 years with the help of a cream.

The best manufacturers

Every more or less successful manufacturer of skincare cosmetics has product lines developed for each age category, taking into account all possible needs. Not every product can be made the best, however, there are brands that specialize specifically in the production of anti-aging cosmetics or have been able to release individual high-quality products aimed at solving the problems of adult skin.

Among them:

• Kora is a Russian company producing phytocosmetics;
• Vichy is a French brand that has been creating products for sensitive skin for over 80 years;
• Olay is an American company that released its first product in 1952 and has since become one of the most recognizable in the beauty industry;
• Clinique is a subsidiary of the famous American giant Estee Lauder. Famous for its innovative developments in the field of dermatology;
• Erborian is a Korean-French brand that combines the traditions of two cultures. She was the first to adapt Korean products to European skin types, constantly releasing new products;
• Missha is a Korean brand, a leader in the segment. Customers especially love their BB creams and anti-aging serums;
• Mizon is another company from Korea that creates exclusively cosmetics from natural ingredients. The company's main pride is its skincare line created based on snail mucin extract;
• Clarins is a famous French brand, the main feature of which is its exclusively natural composition;
• Skin Doctors is an Australian company specializing in professional cosmetics.

If you have experience using the cosmetics described in the rating, or a more interesting option, share your opinion in the comments.

The best cosmetics with Botox effect

To find a good cream with Botox effect, you should not believe the advertising. You need to study the composition, customer reviews, and recommendations of cosmetologists. Based on these criteria, we selected the 10 best products.

Vichy LIFTACTIV EYES SUPREME

Rating: 4.9

Firming cream for the eye contour, intended for people over 35 years of age. Suitable for sensitive skin. Thanks to thermal water, it deeply moisturizes. The complex of active components has a rejuvenating effect. Contains caffeine, adenosine, beeswax, tocopherol, rhamnose. Tightens the skin of the eyelids, removes crow's feet, swelling and dark circles. Accelerates metabolic processes, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin.

Reviews:

Daria: “I liked the cream, it’s easy to apply and doesn’t create a sticky or greasy feeling. It moisturizes and tightens the skin well.”

Irina: “This product really works: there are fewer wrinkles around the eyes. Skin looks hydrated and radiant throughout the day. She became soft, elastic, toned.”

Advantages

• convenient packaging with a dispenser spout;
• light texture;
• suitable for makeup;
• removes swelling;
• moisturizes and nourishes;
• natural composition;
• pleasant aroma.

Flaws

• high price.

Redermic Retinol, La Roche-Posay

Rating: 4.8

Concentrated anti-aging cream. Contains two types of retinol: free and in combination with Omega 6. Thanks to adenosine, it has a tightening effect, smoothes wrinkles, removes acne marks, and lightens pigmentation. The composition contains hyaluronic acid, neurosensin, soybean oil, tocopherol. Suitable for all skin types, apply 2 times a day to the face and neck.

Reviews:

Irina: “The cream did not cause any irritation for me, unlike other products with retinol. You just need to avoid applying it close to your eyes, and use sunscreen when going outside.”

Valentina: “The cream does not work immediately, but after about a month and a half I noticed that the nasolabial folds became less pronounced. The skin smoothed out, became soft and fresh.”

Advantages

• makes even deep wrinkles less pronounced;
• increases skin elasticity;
• absorbs quickly;
• compact packaging;
• evens out complexion.

Flaws

• expensive;
• may cause peeling and an allergic reaction.

Holy Land Perfect Time Daily Firming

Rating: 4.8

A cream with a unique peptide complex that relaxes muscles and makes expression lines less pronounced. Contains extracts of soybean, yam, centella, amino acids, hyaluronic acid. Stimulates collagen production, fills wrinkles, moisturizes. Soy and wheat proteins accelerate regeneration processes. The cream has a complex effect, slows down aging, and increases the protective properties of the epidermis.

Reviews:

:

Elena: “The cream has a pleasant aroma, is easy to apply and is economical to use. It has an immediate lifting effect.”

Galina: “The cream is well suited for the cold season, as it is quite dense. But it does not leave a greasy film and protects the face. I’ve been using it for a month now, my skin has become noticeably younger, and wrinkles have become less noticeable.”

Advantages

• has a rich composition;
• reduces the depth of wrinkles;
• quick results;
• moisturizes and softens;
• smells nice.

Flaws

• unhygienic packaging;
• expensive.

ARAVIA Professional Multi-Action Peptide Cream 24H

Rating: 4.8

Active face cream with Matrixyl-3000 peptide complex. Slows down aging, protects against exposure to UV rays. Amino acids, natural oils and vitamins have a moisturizing effect and normalize fat balance. The composition also contains vitamins, urea, glycerin. With regular use, it increases skin elasticity and smoothes wrinkles.

Reviews:

Alina: “I really liked the cream, my skin noticeably looked younger, became soft and smooth. It is light, smells nice, and absorbs well. I applied it to my lips, they often peel. Now their condition has improved.”

Olga: “The cream seemed quite greasy to me, so I only used it at night. I am allergic, but there was no negative reaction. I noticed results only after a month: the skin became softer, the pigmentation lightened.”

Advantages

• suitable for problem and combination skin;
• evens out tone;
• can be used in winter, protects from wind and frost;
• convenient packaging with dispenser;
• suitable for eyelids;
• pleasant aroma.

Flaws

• dense, does not suit makeup;
• the result is not immediately noticeable;
• contains parabens.

Medical Collagene 3D Home Line Perfect Lift

Rating: 4.8

Cream for day use, suitable for face and neck. Active components nourish and moisturize the skin, stimulate cell regeneration and collagen production. The composition contains hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, urea, and algae extract. Regulates water balance and prevents moisture loss. Matrixyl peptide smoothes wrinkles and evens out facial contours.

Reviews:

Nadezhda: “The cream didn’t help me, my skin is dry, I thought it would moisturize. But I’ve been using it for 2 weeks now, every time after application I feel tightness. The skin remains dry and flaky.”

Ksenia: “I’ve been using this cream for a long time, I really like it. Convenient packaging with a dispenser, easy to apply, does not leave a film and does not clog pores. My skin feels hydrated and I use it under makeup.”

Advantages

• makes the skin smooth and elastic;
• convenient packaging;
• light consistency;
• economically used;
• pleasant aroma.

Flaws

• Not suitable for very dry skin.

Shary firming lifting

Rating: 4.7

Anti-aging cream for problematic aging skin. It has a complex effect due to its rich composition. Argireline peptide relaxes facial muscles, reducing the severity of wrinkles. Moisturizing occurs due to the presence of hyaluronic acid, quinoa oil, and glycerin. The cream nourishes and stimulates collagen synthesis. Apply morning and evening.

Reviews:

Marina: “I liked the aroma of this cream, it is easy to apply. But I didn’t notice any special rejuvenating effect. I am 36 years old, I already have facial wrinkles, they have not disappeared. I use it as a base for makeup and to moisturize.”

Anna: “My skin is prone to allergies, it’s difficult to choose a cream. This one worked well for me: it doesn’t cause irritation and doesn’t clog pores. I just ran out quickly, I will order more as I noticed a decrease in wrinkles.”

Advantages

• light texture;
• pleasant aroma;
• rejuvenating effect;
• does not leave a sticky or tight effect;
• is a good base for makeup.

Flaws

• small packaging.

Bielita BOTOX LIKE system

Rating: 4.6

Light day face cream for daily use. Contains algae, wheat germ oil, squalane, beeswax. The unique BOTOX LIKE peptide in combination with natural polysaccharides has a muscle relaxant and lifting effect. The cream increases skin elasticity, moisturizes, softens, and accelerates regeneration. Expression wrinkles become less pronounced, the skin is protected from the negative influence of the external environment.

Reviews:

Tamara: “I didn’t notice any rejuvenating effect. I’m 45, but I have small wrinkles, I thought I could get rid of them with this cream. But they didn't get smaller. Although the cream moisturizes well, does not smudge or shine, I use it under makeup.”

Elena: “I use two Bielita products in combination: day and night cream. Within a month, the skin was noticeably smoother and there were fewer wrinkles. I love the light texture and pleasant aroma of these products.”

Advantages

• light texture, not felt on the face;
• can be used under makeup;
• smells good;
• tones and refreshes;
• eliminates signs of fatigue;
• is not addictive;
• It's inexpensive.

Flaws

• contains parabens.

Kora Phytocosmetics Cream Serum

Rating: 4.6

This product is intended for the care of mature skin. Contains a complex of peptides: snake venom, myoxinol, anise and ginger extracts. The combination of plant and animal peptides provides a rejuvenating effect. The serum even copes with age-related wrinkles and prevents the appearance of new ones. The composition contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, seaweed, shea butter, wheat proteins, vitamin E. Thanks to the rich composition, the product deeply moisturizes the skin and tightens it.

Reviews:

Tatyana: “I love Cora cosmetics, I recently decided to try the anti-aging serum. Although I'm only 30, I still have expression lines around my eyes. I liked the smell of the serum and its light texture. It is quickly absorbed. But I don’t see any results yet - I’ve been using it for 3 weeks already.”

Irina: “A cosmetologist recommended this serum to me instead of Botox injections. But she immediately warned that you need to use it for a long time. I immediately bought two packs. I liked the serum, makeup goes on well with it. The skin is hydrated, more elastic and smooth, even though only 2 weeks have passed.”

Advantages

• smoothes wrinkles;
• suitable as a base for makeup;
• absorbs quickly;
• has a prolonged effect;
• convenient bottle with dispenser;
• can be used at any age.

Flaws

• needs to be used regularly.

Secret Key Syn-Ake Anti Wrinkle & Whitening Cream

Rating: 4.5

An effective anti-aging cream with snake venom peptide and adenosine. It acts not only on facial wrinkles, but also on age wrinkles. Smoothes and brightens the skin, giving it a radiant appearance. Contains hyaluronic acid, camellia oil, shea butter, aloe and green tea extracts. Active components penetrate deeply into the epidermis, slowing down aging.

Reviews:

Marina: “I didn’t feel any effect, although I heard a lot of positive reviews about Korean cosmetics. But it didn’t smooth out the expression wrinkles on my forehead. I didn't notice any whitening either. I only liked the light texture and hydration.”

Tatyana: “I have been using Korean cosmetics for a long time, I especially like Secret Key. But for a long time I couldn’t decide to buy the cream with viper venom; it was given to me as a gift. It turned out that there was no irritation or freezing, only a slight tingling immediately after application. But after a course of use, the skin became smooth, facial wrinkles smoothed out.”

Advantages

• acts quickly;
• has a natural composition;
• does not leave a feeling of stickiness and tightness;
• brightens;
• suitable for makeup;
• smells nice.

Flaws

• must be used in combination with other products in the series;
• it costs expensive.

Kleona Anti-age cream No. 2.3

Rating: 4.4

Designed for the skin around the eyes. Intensely moisturizes, relieves fatigue, reduces the severity of wrinkles. The active component matrixil, in combination with polysaccharides, vegetable oils and extracts, this peptide has a rejuvenating effect. The composition also contains algae extract, chitosan, and tocopherol.

The cream refreshes, tones, removes swelling, and prevents moisture loss. Can be used not only for eyelids, it is effective for smoothing wrinkles on the forehead and nasolabial folds. Suitable for day and night use.

Reviews:

Natalia: “I use this cream for night care. Now I don’t wake up in the morning with swelling and dark circles. The skin is always fresh and toned.”

Olga: “I’m only 38, but there are a lot of wrinkles near my eyes and my skin is very dry. Kleona cream has become my salvation. Now the skin looks more youthful, smoother and more hydrated. I use the cream twice a day, it goes well under makeup.”

Of course, the cream cannot have the same effect as Botox injections. But with regular use, it can slow down aging, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin condition.

Advantages

• quick effect;
• natural composition;
• easily absorbed;
• eliminates swelling and bruises under the eyes;
• convenient bottle with dispenser;
• economical consumption.

Flaws

• not detected.