Limit the Botox — Here’s How to Use Face Tape for Wrinkles

Let’s be real for a minute — we all have concerns when it comes to our skin and aging. While wrinkles and fine lines just come with the territory, most women do all they can to limit the appearance of them.

I have tried several skincare treatments over the years, and have admittedly been a Botox gal. However, Botox is definitely a commitment on the financial front, not to mention there’s the risk of experiencing some side effects (you are injecting something into your body after all.)

While I don’t intend on ditching Botox completely, I have been on a mission to find alternative ways to decrease the appearance of my fine lines. The solution that I am now calling a game changer? Using face tape!

Instead of going to the dermatologist for a Botox session four times a year, I’m now able to go just twice. I’m so happy that I am using it less and less, and if you want to join me on this journey, I’m mapping out all you need to know about cutting back on the injections.

Here, find my guide for how to use face tape, the benefits of face tape, my favorite types, and some of the top questions I receive about this skincare treatment!

Face Taping 101

I started using face tape consistently in November and the last time I did a round of Botox was in August. Utilizing the tape has undoubtedly extended my time between needing a boost and has offered a more affordable alternative. Another perk? Face tape is a lower risk way to reduce wrinkles since you don’t risk any potential reactions or side effects.

How to Use Face Tape

Using face tape is simple and just requires a little bit of your time before you go to bed. I will say that you want to be very gentle with how you apply and remove the tape to ensure that you don’t cause any trauma to the skin.

Here are the basic steps for applying face tape:

1. Start with freshly washed skin.

2. Apply your favorite face tape (find my recs below) to the areas that need the most support. The most common spots to apply it are to your temples, along your crows feet, around your lips, and along your 11’s (the area between your eyebrows where you get wrinkles when you frown.) Some people like to use it on their chest and neck as well.

3. Be sure to apply the tape evenly on each side of your face so you achieve a symmetrical result.

My Favorite Face Tapes

When you first get into the face taping world it can be quite overwhelming — there are so many different types and brands out there! The three that I love most are from Frownies, Kinesio Tex, and The Natural Faces. Here’s a little rundown on what I like about each:

Frownies Facial Patches

While this isn’t necessarily face tape, Frownies are very much a tried-and-true option that have been around forever. If you’ve looked into face taping before, it’s likely that you’ve come across this brand. One big benefit is that this option is really affordable (and it can also be bought on Amazon!)

Frownies are easy to put on yet they apply more like a thin (and comfortable) piece of cardboard that you get wet and adhere to your skin. Think of it almost like a lightweight cast or patch that you put on your face at night. You can also use Frownies with skincare and face oils and they will still stick!

I have found this to be my favorite option when traveling but I will say that it’s a bit harder to remove from your skin. The only other downside is that they have a weird smell. Tip: Cutting the edges makes it easier to pull off in the morning.

Kinesio Tex Gold

This option is a more recent find of mine and I have been thoroughly impressed by how well it applies and comes off of my skin. I love that it’s made in the U.S. with the highest quality cotton (the material you’ll want to reach for.)

It’s also a budget-friendly choice and it’s available on Amazon.

With this tape you will want to clean your skin, apply a moisturizer, then wait 10-20 minutes for your skincare products to absorb before applying.

The Natural Faces Japanese Face Tape

For a more true face tape, I would recommend The Natural Faces. This tape comes in two sizes that are ideal for different areas of your face — the 1-inch tape is best for upper face application and the 2-inch tape is suitable for anywhere on your skin.

It’s recommended that you use the tape a few times per week and allow a day or two in between use to let your tissue rest.

The brand also has lots of educational content and how-to videos on their website and Instagram, which can come in handy if you’re a beginner.

Face Taping FAQ

1. How often do you use face tape?

I was using it 3 to 4 times per week after my Botox expired. This allowed me to go 6 months without Botox, which was honestly life changing. Now I use the tape 3 to 5 times a month.

2. Do you still get Botox?

Yes, I still plan on getting Botox but have been extending the time between getting it by using face tape.

3. Does any face tape work?

Just like anything, not all are made the same. Some are better quality and have less irritating adhesives which is why it’s so important that you be selective when picking a face tape. The material should be made of cotton and you should opt for something that feels breathable.

This one from Amazon came highly recommended and has been another good option for me!

4. Do you sleep with face tape on?

Yes, I apply it right before bed and then remove it in the morning.

5. Does the tape irritate your skin?

I haven’t experienced irritation from using face tape but that’s why it’s so important that you choose a quality product.

6. How did you learn about face taping?

Kasey from @sbkliving has been such an invaluable resource! I’d suggest giving her a follow and watching her face taping how to video if you need more guided support.

Have any questions about how to use face tape? Leave them in the comment section below!