Is this popular DIY flaxseed mask a Botox dupe? What health experts say
Want the benefits of Botox without the bill?
Try this grocery store item.
TikTok gals are claiming that flaxseed facial masks work as an at-home Botox dupe.
“It’s Botox you make at home, honey. And the best part is it’s two ingredients: flaxseeds and water,” TikToker Victoria Benitez claimed in a viral TikTok that has been viewed more than 6.3 million times.
She touted the “endless” benefits of flaxseed as she rubbed the goop into her skin and through her hair.
“When you put it on your skin the fatty acids are gonna give you that glow and it’s also anti-inflammatory, so it’s going to reduce any redness or inflammation,” Benitez insisted.
In a follow-up TikTok video, she also claimed that “it’s gonna help you produce collagen” and “has anti-aging properties, thanks to its antioxidants.” However, she admitted she’s not a dermatologist and that everyone’s skin varies.
The TikTok hashtag #flaxseedfacemask has more than 76,400 views as young women try the remedy themselves and dermatologists clarify the claims.
However, experts are divided on the effectiveness of the alleged Botox hack — some swear by the grocery store item, while others question the lasting effect.
“Flaxseed face masks are good for your skin because they are very rich in fiber. Flaxseed fiber can help maintain skin health by improving skin hydration,” Dr. Konstantin Vasyukevich, a facial plastic surgeon in New York City, told The Post.
He also explained flaxseeds are very high in natural fiber that will work to hydrate and soothe the skin, while the antioxidants could work to prevent aging.
“This is being compared to Botox because of the temporary skin tightening effect. The mucilage in flaxseeds has a gel-like consistency that, when applied to the skin, can create a temporary tightening effect. This can contribute to the appearance of smoother and firmer skin.”
However, not all skincare experts suggest that flaxseed facial masks are a miracle cure.
“When applying a flaxseed face mask mixed with water, it can cause a temporary tightening effect because of its gel texture as it starts to dry — giving it a ‘Botox’ like appearance. Once the face mask is removed, any original fine lines and wrinkles will still be apparent,” Gina Damato, an esthetician and the founder of Château Glow facial spa in Brooklyn, told The Post.
“DIY face masks made from ingredients in the kitchen will have limited effectiveness, especially compared to a neurotoxin with proven results to relax facial muscles.”
Instead, she suggests adding sunscreen, retinol, daily facial massage and microcurrent products into your consistent skincare routine for “Botox replacements” — but warned that results will take time.