Botulinum toxin injections, better known as Botox, relax the muscles in the face to smooth out lines and wrinkles, such as crow’s feet and frown lines.
While it’s a tried, tested and now very popular method to reverse signs of ageing, TikTok users have gone crazy for an entirely natural alternative.
“Flaxseed Botox” has amassed more than 30.1 million views on the social media platform, with many videos detailing how to replicate the DIY Botox potion that costs next to nothing to make.
The solution is comprised of two tablespoons of flaxseeds and two cups of water which are heated and then simmered to thicken before being cooled down. The mask is then sieved, applied to the skin and left until completely dried, after which it is washed off.
The cheap remedy has been praised for producing instant results, but according to Alexandra Mills-Haq, medical aesthetician and skincare expert www.amaesthetics.clinic, they’re not for the reasons you may think.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, she said: “Flaxseeds are known for their potential health benefits, but when it comes to treating wrinkles, the evidence is somewhat limited.
“Flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to overall skin health.
“Inflammation is thought to play a role in skin ageing, so it’s possible that consuming flaxseeds as part of a balanced diet could have a positive impact on skin quality.”
Alexandra continued: “Additionally, flaxseeds contain lignans, which are compounds with antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to neutralise free radicals, which can damage skin cells and contribute to the ageing process. By reducing oxidative stress, antioxidants may help to combat the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.”
The benefits don’t stop there though. Flaxseeds also contribute to protection against oxidative damage thanks to their anti-ageing vitamin E content, which makes them a popular topical ingredient in many moisturisers.
The omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil can help to improve the skin’s barrier function and may have a hydrating effect, even when applied as a mask.
Despite these potential benefits, however, Alexandra pointed out that it’s important to note that there is no definitive scientific evidence proving that flaxseeds can directly reduce wrinkles.
She explained: “Skincare and ageing are complex processes influenced by a variety of factors including genetics, sun exposure, lifestyle, and overall health.
“While flaxseeds may offer some skin-healthy nutrients, they are not a guaranteed solution for wrinkles”.
