There’s no doubt that injectable neurotoxins (Botox, Dysport, and Juveau) are the go-to for eliminating dynamic wrinkles (those caused by constant muscle movement – think crow’s feet around the eyes or horizontal forehead creases). They accomplish this by paralyzing the muscles, causing wrinkles to fade away. But what if you don’t want to get needles?
As you may already know, ‘Botox in a bottle’, a term that has been popularised recently on TikTok, is the name for a topical product with anti-aging properties, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face.
In this article, we’ll be discussing ‘Botox in a bottle’, also known as topical Botox or Argireline. We’ll cover what it is, how it works, its benefits, side effects, and more.
What is Botox in a Bottle?
As a result of the natural aging process, our skin produces less collagen and elastin – the proteins that keep our skin looking plump and firm. This loss of elasticity can cause wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and mouth.
‘Botox in a bottle’ is a term given to Argireline, as it is a Botulinum toxin type A mimic, which means it relaxes facial muscles in the same way that Botox does.
It is an alternative to injectable Botox that can be found in anti-aging products, which means it’s applied to the skin surface rather than injected.
How Does Botox Work?
Before we get deeper into ‘Botox in a bottle’, it’s important to understand how Botox works.
Fine lines and wrinkles are usually caused by a combination of factors, including muscle contractions, sun damage, and gravity. When we frown or squint, the muscles in our face contract, and over time, these repeated contractions can lead to permanent creases and lines in the skin.
Botox is made from botulinum toxin (Botox, National Center of Biotechnology Information) A, a protein that’s produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In the field of dermatology, Botox is done by needle because the formulation needs to penetrate the upper layer of the skin. Botox injections work by temporarily paralyzing the neuromuscular junction which causes relaxation of facial muscles, which prevents them from contracting. As a result, the wrinkle-causing muscle contractions are reduced, and the skin appears smoother.
Botox is a popular treatment for wrinkles and fine lines because it is minimally invasive, with little to no downtime. However, Botox cannot be used to prevent other signs of aging skin such as dry skin, redness, dark circles, pigmentation disorders and vascular abnormalities.
What is Argireline?
‘Botox in a bottle’ is a topical treatment that contains Argireline – a peptide that relaxes facial muscles to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Argireline (International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2002) is a brand name for a particular peptide – acetyl hexapeptide-3 or acetyl hexapeptide-8. Peptides are amino acids that are the building blocks of proteins. They are responsible for collagen and elastin production. These vital molecules help keep skin youthful by supporting its natural functions like strength or elasticity.
Unlike other peptides often used in skincare, this peptide can help reduce wrinkle production caused by muscle movement. It’s also the first peptide that specifically targets expression lines such as forehead lines, frown lines, and smile lines.
How Does Argireline Work?
Argireline blocks the release of the neurotransmitter catecholamine, which is responsible for telling the muscles to contract, and stimulates the production of collagen. When muscle contraction is reduced, wrinkles and fine lines are smoothed out. The mechanism of Argireline is very similar to Botox. It targets Snap-25 which is a protein that Botox also targets. Argireline has been shown to be particularly effective in smoother skin by reducing forehead lines, crow’s feet, and smile lines.
Benefits of Argireline.
As a result of the natural aging process, the skin becomes less firm and fine lines and wrinkles appear. As we age, the body produces less of two kinds of proteins – collagen and elastin – which are responsible for plump, firm, and smooth skin. Therefore, when collagen and elastin production decrease, the skin begins to sag and becomes looser.
This further accentuates the dynamic wrinkles that set in over time. As we mentioned above, the growth factors of dynamic wrinkles are those creases that are caused as a result of muscle contractions from making facial expressions.
When you are young, the smile lines, crow’s feet, or forehead creases that form when you smile or frown will go away when your face is relaxed. But repeatedly making those facial expressions cause the lines to become etched into your skin. For this reason, a wrinkle smoothing cream or procedures are best when they stimulate the production of collagen and elastin or work to prevent the contraction of dynamic wrinkles. That is where ‘Botox in a bottle’ comes in.
Some benefits of using ‘Botox in a bottle’ include:
Prevent Wrinkle Formation:
Argireline inhibits nerves from communicating with muscles and instructing them to contract, resulting in fewer wrinkles.
Stimulate Collagen Production:
Collagen is essential for the skin as it keeps it supple and makes it stretch; however, as the skin ages, it loses the ability to produce or utilize some of its natural peptides.
Collagen also forms a network within the skin on which new cells can grow. It also helps repair the skin by replacing dead cells (this process is called skin cell turnover). A study shows that using Argireline twice a day for six weeks can help aging skin increase collagen production.
Maintain Skin Hydration
Argireline also enhances collagen function, which, in conjunction with skin-smoothing effects, helps to boost skin moisture.
Differences Between Botox and ‘ Botox in a bottle ‘ – Argireline.
While Botox and Argireline work in similar ways, there are some important differences to note:
- Botox is injected into the muscles while Argireline is applied to the surface of the skin.
- Botox works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles while Argireline relaxes the muscles by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters.
- Botox lasts for three to six months while Argireline typically lasts for six to eight weeks.
- Botox can have some side effects like bruising or swelling at the injection site while Argireline is generally well-tolerated with few reported side effects.
- Another difference between the two products is the cost involved with treatment. The serum or series of products required for ‘Botox in a bottle’ treatment costs much less to purchase than a Botox treatment. Both Botox injections and ‘Botox in a bottle’ treatments involve continuous use so which you choose involves your own cost-benefit analysis.
Ultimately, neither product is necessarily better than the other – it is about making a determination about which product is best for you.
Side Effects of Argireline?
There are no known negative effects of this chemical. If you’re still concerned due to sensitive skin, though, you may conduct a skin test for a few days on a small region to ensure that you aren’t allergic to it. Or discuss it with your dermatologist before adding it to your skincare routine.
How To Use Argireline?
This peptide is best suited for targeted usage on deep creases or folds that have developed as a result of repeated muscular activity – the wrinkles around the eye area, the deep wrinkles between your brows, and the forehead wrinkles are all ideal spots. The final formulation of each product may differ greatly, follow the product instructions for how often to apply it.
Ingredients May Interact With Argireline.
It is generally considered best not to mix acids with peptides as they may reduce the efficacy of peptides.
Certain ingredients require a particular pH for the skin, which is a measure of how alkaline or acidic a product is. Certain acids can change the pH of the skin and neutralize the effect of Argireline.
It can also damage your skin barrier. This is more of a preventative measure, so it is best to clarify with a dermatologist if unsure.
Types of Argireline Solution.
- Most water-based solutions use a mix of water and hyaluronic acid, allowing for easy skin penetration.
- Oil-based serums utilize oils as their base, making them occlusive. This causes a barrier around the skin that doesn’t let moisture escape but also prevents other ingredients from penetrating the surface.
For best absorption of Argireline serum, choose a water-based solution and apply it before or after other similar solutions but always before cream or oil.
Find Your ‘Botox in a Bottle’ – The Ordinary Argireline 10% Solution
When beauty product influencers on TikTok say ‘Botox in a Bottle’, they are often referring to a product by a brand called The Ordinary, which contains the peptide Argireline solution 10%.
The Ordinary Argireline 10% Solution is a lightweight serum that targets the appearance of dynamic facial lines.
What are the benefits of The Ordinary Argireline 10% Solution?
- Targets the appearance of dynamic facial folds (also known as fine lines and wrinkles).
- Particularly ideal for around the eyes and across the forehead.
- Lightweight serum can be layered under other heavier serums.
- The concentrated formula only requires a few drops.
- It only costs (US) $8.
What Are The Key Ingredients in The Ordinary Argireline 10% Solution?
- A proprietary solution of Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, controlled studies have shown that Argireline improves the appearance of facial areas prone to developing dynamic folds, including around the eyes and in the forehead area.
- Studies have shown that the water content of formulations does impact the utility level of topical Argireline and specifically that higher water content results in better utility.
- This formulation is water-based and avoids oils, esters and silicones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Argireline take to work?
Argireline may start showing results within the first month of consistent use (twice per day).
How do you use Matrixyl and Argireline?
You can mix Argireline with Matrixyl (another peptide that works great on wrinkles and fine lines). Consult your dermatologist to learn about the ideal mixing ratios.
Can you mix Niacinamide and Argireline?
Yes. It is considered safe to mix Niacinamide and Argireline as their pH levels (above 5) are similar.
Which is better, Argireline or Retinol?
It depends on your skin’s condition and age. While retinol can improve pore function and fade discolouration from sun damage, it may not be as effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Argireline, on the other hand, is specifically designed to target those areas.
Does Argireline extend botox?
Yes. Argireline has been shown to extend the effect of Botox treatments.
Can you apply Argireline on the sensitive skin around the mouth?
Yes. You can apply Argireline around the mouth to smoothen the lines appearing around it.
Conclusion
‘Botox in a bottle’, or Argireline, is a peptide that can be found in serums and creams. It is designed to target dynamic facial lines and wrinkles. Argireline may start showing results within the first month of consistent use.
You can mix it with other products, like Matrixyl or Niacinamide. Argireline extends Botox treatments and can be applied around the mouth, the eye areas, and the forehead. ‘Botox in a bottle’ is an affordable, effective way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Try it for yourself and see!
Argireline may not work for everyone, so consult your dermatologist if you have any concerns. And don’t forget to use sunscreen!
Do you have any questions about ‘Botox in a bottle’? Let us know by reaching out!
