Better than Botox: My New Clean Anti-aging Skincare Routine

You might be wondering if there are any effective and non-toxic Botox alternatives to address fine lines, wrinkles or other signs of age. Today, we’re going to dive into natural and safe therapies and routines to slow (and even reverse!) aging skin. 

Why I Can’t Get Behind Botox

I get it. The results can’t be denied. It’s easy and fast. It’s a matter of booking an appointment and showing up versus an ongoing practice that will gradually produce results over time. Botox is the epitome of instant gratification in the anti-aging world. 

But I want health for the long haul. And that’s why I can’t get behind Botox. Botox is made using the bacterium Clostridium botulinum type A neurotoxin complex. ⁠Its active ingredient is a neurotoxin. In the literal sense of the word. ⁠It’s used in such small doses that it is generally tolerated well and deemed “safe” by the FDA. I disagree. I simply believe there is not a safe level of neurotoxin to inject into anyone’s body, especially so close to the brain. 

Additionally, I have seen more adverse Botox side effects in my practice than you might believe. Some have been “minor” and others more serious, but either way, it is evidence to me that this elective and superficial procedure is not completely safe. 

Another thing we don’t talk about enough is the accumulating effects over time. Those who get Botox typically get it every 3-6 months. Multiply that by 10, 20, 50 years… It makes me question as a health professional what the toxic effects could do to that person’s health over time. 

There is also the toxic load to consider. This doesn’t just look at the accumulation of toxins from Botox over time, but it looks at all of the toxins into which someone comes into contact or holds within their body. Is Botox tipping the bucket? I teach my clients that our bodies are like buckets. We each have our own individual and unique “toxic load,” and when our buckets become filled due to toxins in food, air, water, personal care products and things like Botox, we see symptoms occur. Botox only adds to the toxic load, which is why I cannot recommend or support it. 

My Top Ten Safe Botox Alternatives

If you’re like me and choose not to go the Botox route, it doesn’t mean you don’t have tools to keep your skin looking young, plump and healthy! You can age gracefully (and even reverse some signs of aging!) with the following skincare, products and rituals:

1. Frownies 

The original wrinkle patch that softens wrinkles while you sleep. I absolutely love this as an effective alternative to Botox. You wear them nightly for a month, and then you continue to do “maintenance.”

Use code TAYLORDUKES for a discount on your Frownies purchase. 

2. Gua Sha 

Gua Sha is an ancient beauty tool that has very effective results when used consistently over time. It improves lymphatic drainage to the face as well as softens wrinkles and aids in the circulation of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. 

My favorite gua sha stone is from Primally Pure (use code TAYLORDUKES). 

3. Facial Rolling 

I do this literally every morning. Ice rolling while I have my matcha is my favorite way to start the day. It’s crazy the immediate de-puffing I see in my face after rolling, and I believe this brand is the best out there! Use code TAYLORDUKES for a discount. Bonus: it also helps with your lymphatic system. Pro top: get the Mint Roller, so you can easily put it in your purse or bag for on-the-go use!

4. Red Light 

Red light is a powerful anti-aging tool that works at the cellular level. The LUMEBOX is my favorite for its portability and ease. If you purchase, the LUMEBOX, you can use code DUKESWELLNESS for a discount. 

5. Facial Cupping 

Facial cupping can be done 3-4 times per week to really stimulate circulation, soften fine lines and initiate deeper drainage of lymph. 

My favorite facial cupping device is from Primally Pure (use code TAYLORDUKES). 

6. Facial Dry Brushing 

Think body dry brushing, but for the face. This brush (use code TAYLORDUKES) is so gentle, but it helps slough off dead skin, even skin tone and texture and also improve lymphatic flow. 

My favorite facial dry brush is from Primally Pure (use code TAYLORDUKES). 

7. Holistic Esthetician 

I would look for a holistic esthetician in your area who might be able to administer minimally invasive treatments such as dermaplaning or microneedling. These can really accelerate skin healing, cell turnover and anti-aging efforts. 

8. Facial Acupuncture 

Google to find a place near you! Facial acupuncture can target muscles to soften lines. I have friends who absolutely love facial acupuncture and swear by its results. 

9. Sunscreen

If you’re going to be in the sun, then I suggest sunscreen in order to avoid UVA/UVB rays and the aging effects they have on the skin. CLEARSTEM (use code TAYLORDUKES) makes my favorite sunscreen!

10. Healthy Lifestyle! – Eat real food (cut sugars and processed foods) and hydrate optimally…

Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that improving your skin is an inside-out job. A diet high in sugar can produce AGEs (advanced glycation end products) that ultimately damage skin at a cellular level, making cell membranes brittle and weak. 

To improve your skin, you’ll want to make sure you’re consuming plenty of clean proteins for their amino acids. TDW Bone Broth Protein is an easy and versatile way to ensure you’re getting in your collagen and amino acids, which are powerful wrinkle-fighters. Eat healthy fats generously to keep skin hydrated and cells plump and protected. Then, eat the rainbow! Colorful fruits and veggies will provide antioxidant power that will protect your skin from free radicals and other damage. 

And don’t forget about hydration! Proper hydration will keep skin cells full and healthy. Hydrated skin starts with hydration from the inside more so than any cream or serum. 

If you’re looking for my favorite skin-loving supplement, you’ve got to try out TDW Omega, which is a hero for hair, nails and skin (along with a ton more!). 

You’re armed with what you need to age gracefully – and even turn back the time on skin damage and aging that may have already been done! You can improve your skin without compromising your health. And now you know how!