I always feel like I’m reborn in October. It seems that every year at this time I get a burst of energy, I reflect on what I’ve done the past six months as well as what I haven’t gotten a chance to do. What projects and goals I planned, what was accomplished and what was not. What I want to continue working on and what I want to learn.
It’s also a time of the season changing and checking in on what you are feeling on the inside and how you look on the outside.
Let’s talk a little about Botox …. Or the idea of it, have you considered injectables? Have you experienced this treatment?
I invite you think about choosing the healthy route avoiding toxins like botox and fillers as an intro into a connection with a new version of yourself.
We have expanded on our Skin Wellness Brand and launched “Face Fitness”, our version of Face Yoga.
Cultural beauty standards are hurtful to all ages of girls, women and men as well, we are conditioned to a very limited understanding and acceptance of beauty in ourselves. Manipulating minds to a cookie cutter idea of how we should look.
From what society tells us over 50 year old women have limited options for improvements to our skin and face and that usually results in surgery or fillers.
When it comes to combating the signs of aging, many individuals turn to various methods to maintain a youthful appearance. The two popular options are face yoga and botox fillers. But how do these two approaches compare in terms of effectiveness and safety?
Face Yoga: A Natural Approach
Face yoga, also known as facial exercises, involves performing a series of facial movements and expressions to tone and tighten the muscles in the face. Proponents of face yoga claim that it can help reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and giving you back your youthful appearance without altering your natural face into someone else.
Studies have shown that regular practice of face yoga can lead to improvements in facial muscle strength and skin firmness. In fact, a study published in JAMA Dermatology found that participants who practiced face yoga for 20 weeks saw a 30% improvement in facial appearance.
Botox Fillers: A Quick Fix
Botox fillers, on the other hand, involve injecting botulinum toxin or dermal fillers into specific areas of the face to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles, while fillers plump up the skin to smooth out lines and creases.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Botox injections are the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure, with over 7 million procedures performed in 2020. Botox is known for its quick results, with many individuals seeing improvements within a few days of treatment.
Effectiveness
Both face yoga and botox fillers can be effective in reducing the signs of aging, but they work in different ways. Face yoga focuses on strengthening the facial muscles, fascia release, regeneration of collagen, hydration, replacing volume loss and improving circulation, while botox fillers target specific wrinkles and lines.
Cost
When it comes to cost, Botox fillers can be quite expensive, with treatments costing hundreds to thousands of dollars per session. Face yoga, on the other hand, is a cost-effective alternative that can be done at home with no additional expenses.
Long-Term Effects
One of the key differences between face yoga and Botox fillers is the long-term effects. Face yoga, offers gradual improvements that lead to long-lasting benefits with dedicated practice.
While botox and fillers can provide immediate results, there are potential long-term dangers associated with these treatments. One of the main risks is the development of a condition called "filler fatigue," where the skin becomes dependent on fillers to maintain its appearance. This can lead to a cycle of needing more and more filler injections over time.
In addition, repeated use of botox and fillers can weaken the muscles in the face, leading to a loss of natural facial expressions and even muscle atrophy. This can result in a "frozen" or unnatural appearance that is difficult to reverse.In turn leads to premature aging.
Potential Side Effects
Aside from the long-term risks, botox and fillers can also have immediate side effects such as bruising, swelling, and redness at the injection site. In some cases, patients may experience allergic reactions or infections that can have serious consequences
In conclusion, both face yoga and Botox fillers offer unique benefits for reducing wrinkles and achieving a more youthful appearance. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences, budget, and desired outcomes. Whether opting for the convenience of Botox fillers or the natural approach of face yoga, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best option for your skincare needs.
I am over 50 and can attest after a month of dedicated facial fitness “face Yoga” I have seen and felt an enormous improvement. The way my skin feels, how my face moves and the way I see myself.
I have a boost of confidence I haven’t had in years.
My face has improved and is reflecting better tone and structure and fuller lips. Naturally fuller lips.
With constant interruptions beyond my control, the easiest thing I could have done to feel better about myself or the way I look would have been to get Botox and fillers.
But would I feel better? Short answer, NO! I know the irreversible damaging effects of Botox injections, premature aging and the toxic element alone should be reason enough not to use it.
Since 2022 I have been training as a face yoga instructor. I have had serious distractions that would last for weeks to months. And many reasons to give up my practice.
But each time I trained even if it was only a few times a week I felt so much better.
I looked better. When I touched my face it was better.
This year did not start off in any way I would expect. My son was inflicted with a devastating and tragic injury.
The emotional stress of my son’s distress showed all over my face.
As I looked at my reflection I did not recognize myself. The worry that fell upon me was clearly visible. My skin tone and texture was very dull and sallow, each side of my face was so different from the other it looked as if they each belonged to someone else. My eyelids were as heavy as my heart. Dark and heavy circles took over my once bright eyes and a deeply lined frown and forehead was present and unwelcome.
I have aged well beyond my years in a year. I took for granted that my young features would stay with me always.
What I learned during my practice is that recognizing the signs of aging is not caused by how old we are but what is happening in our lives and which emotions are effecting us. Fear, anger, worry, pain, sadness these and others are what actually cause premature signs of aging.
The miraculous thing about that is, we can reverse it.
Our face has the ability to communicate without speaking. Our face shows emotion before our voice.
Stay tuned, an upcoming post will be about mirror work with a link for a guided practice.
Be kind to yourself, give yourself praise. Avoid the superficial mentality of our current society. You are here for a reason and I am here to help, nurture, guide and sometimes tough love.
Be Blessed and well.
xJacki