Face taping: Is this viral Botox alternative worth the hype?

What if a simple strip of tape could help you wake up with smoother skin? Face taping, a viral beauty hack, is taking over social media as a wallet-friendly alternative to Botox. But does it truly work, or is it just another fad? To find out, we asked the experts.

Face taping involves applying adhesive strips or tapes to targeted areas such as the forehead or around the eyes, before bed. This practice promises to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles overnight. Fans and social media influencers swear by its ability to deliver a smoother, refreshed look with consistent use, making it a popular choice for those hesitant about injectables.

What exactly is face taping?

“Face taping is applying elastic tapes to areas like the forehead, around the eyes, cheeks, and jawline. It provides an instant lift to the skin, but the effect is temporary. It doesn't offer a permanent solution to prevent wrinkles.” explains Dr. Sonali Kohli, Consultant - Dermatology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital.

While Botox directly targets muscle movement to prevent wrinkles, face tapping is promoting relaxation. “Face taping works as a supportive method for skin rejuvenation but doesn’t have the same immediate or targeted effect as Botox,” adds Kohli. “It’s more of a preventative or maintenance tool than a quick fix for deep wrinkles.”

Face taping vs botox

The appeal of face taping lies in its non-invasive, needle-free nature, making it a comforting choice for those apprehensive about injectables while Botox is a medical procedure offering longer-lasting results by relaxing facial muscles. "Face taping is a temporary, DIY method that smooths wrinkles superficially, while Botox is a professional injectable treatment that relaxes muscles for long-lasting wrinkle reduction," says Kohli.

However, experts caution against equating its results to Botox. “Face taping lacks scientific validation and cannot be logically compared to Botox, as the two involve entirely different mechanisms and outcomes. While Botox is a medically approved procedure with proven results in reducing wrinkles by temporarily relaxing muscles, face tapping is more of a wellness technique with no clinical studies to substantiate its effectiveness,” says Dr Mandeep Singh, HOD of Plastic Surgery, Dermatology, and Cosmetic Surgery at Paras Health, Gurugram.

Botox directly freezes the muscles responsible for wrinkles, something face tapping cannot achieve. “While taping improves skin tone and elasticity over time, it doesn’t eliminate dynamic wrinkles or provide the dramatic anti-aging results Botox offers,” Kohli explains.

That said, taping can complement Botox treatments. Maintaining skin health and can make tapping a valuable addition to a holistic skincare routine.

Things to consider

Experts recommend viewing face taping as part of a broader skincare regimen rather than a standalone botox alternative.

“Face taping is a great way to support your skin’s natural processes when you sleep,” says Kohli. “But if you’re looking for specific, long-lasting wrinkle treatment, Botox remains unmatched in its precision and results.”

While face taping offers an accessible and gentle approach to skincare, it is not a substitute for more advanced cosmetic procedures. Instead, it serves as a supplementary practice for those prioritizing overall skin health and wellness.