Facelifts are one of the most transformative plastic surgery procedures, and the rejuvenated and refreshed look of a facelift makes it an attractive option for anyone looking to banish the wrinkling and sagging that comes with aging. But facelifts are generally reserved for patients in their late forties and beyond, and many people younger than that wish to replicate the toned and tightened look.
Enter facial tape. Usually made of latex, silicone, or polyethylene plastic, the tape can either be used to give a ‘snatched’ look during the day or employed at night to fight wrinkles. Sold everywhere from eBay to Amazon, facial tape further entered the lexicon when people began emulating the queens seen on RuPaul’s Drag Race, who often use tape to both secure their wigs and to lift the face.
But, make no mistake, the practice has been around for years. “Face taping is not a new technique and has been used for years as a potential solution for some people looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, specifically to provide an immediate lifting effect,” explains Dendy Engelman, MD, a board certified dermatologist in New York City. “It originally gained popularity in the film industry, when actresses would wear tape under wigs to make their skin appear more firm on camera.”
While this practice isn’t new, it’s mostly been an insider secret — which means there has been a lack of information about the longer term ramifications and risks of the seemingly instant lift. We’re breaking down what you need to know about the ins and outs of facial tape.
Using Facial Tape for an ‘Instant’ Facelift
Snatching your face with tape can be achieved by applying packing tape or another kind of thick tape on one side of your face (behind your ear), then pulling it across your head to the other side. Another option are kits that include a silicone tab on an elastic band, and are applied similarly to the packing tape method.
And while using these methods intermittently shouldn’t do too much harm for most people, there are still some risks. Dr. Engelman advises against using tapes for long periods of time because they can actually have the inverse effect. “Extended usage of these adhesive tapes could cause exaggerated stretching to the skin and actually accelerate signs of aging,” she cautions. “There could be increased skin laxity induced from tight taping techniques and/or prolonged wear.”
Using Facial Tape for Wrinkles
Using facial tape to tackle wrinkles is controversial, as most dermatologists and aestheticians agree that tapes, patches, and bandages will not effectively reduce, remove, or prevent wrinkles. Wrinkle tapes are said to work if you directly place them on, say, your crow’s feet or forehead lines and leave them on overnight, but the main issue here is that the smoothing effect only lasts as long as the tape is on. Once you wake up and remove the tape, you’re back to square one.
Another concern? While rare, some people can have a reaction to the tape. “The adhesive itself is not dangerous to your skin, though wearing it for prolonged periods of time can result in the skin not getting enough air or natural moisturization, which isn't ideal in any situation,” Dr. Engelman shares. “There are cases where people develop an allergic contact dermatitis to ingredients that make up the adhesive.”
Alternatives to Facial Tape
While facial tape can offer temporary benefits in a pinch, Dr. Engelman doesn’t suggest it as a long-term lifting or wrinkle-smoothing solution. “I would recommend readers try to avoid facial tape, certainly on a regular basis,” she says. Instead, consider the at-home and in-office options that offer lasting benefits. “If they are looking for real, permanent anti-aging solutions, there are many more viable cosmetic and medical treatments that will safely and truly provide greater reductions in wrinkle visibility,” she shares. An added benefit? “You don't want to be tugging so aggressively on the skin on a regular basis,” she adds.
Here are three at-home and in-office wrinkle-reducing solutions that will have you saying ‘so long’ to your facial tape:
Skincare
Yes, skincare has its limits, but starting a quality skincare routine before wrinkles and sagging start to show up is a recipe for maintaining flawless skin. In addition to a broad spectrum sunscreen, look for products that feature collagen and elastin-boosting ingredients (think: retinol and retinoids), brightening antioxidants (hi, vitamin C and vitamin E), and exfoliating hydroxy acids (i.e. AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs). Don’t know where to start? Check out our guides to the best skincare routine for your twenties, thirties, forties, and after 50.
Injectables
Once you have your skincare regimen down, you may want to consider how professional treatments can fit into your routine. Cosmetic neurotoxins, like Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin®, reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. When injected into an affected area (horizontal forehead lines, glabellar lines, crow’s feet, etc.), they temporarily limit muscle contractions, which, in turn, prevents the face from forming lines. Results generally last three to four months. It is increasingly common for patients in their late twenties and early thirties to begin routine neurotoxin treatments as a preventative measure to ward off deeper wrinkles down the road.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
The most invasive option of the bunch can also yield the most dramatic results. Ablative lasers — the gold standard in laser skin resurfacing — create a controlled burn to the skin to stimulate the natural healing process, which jumpstarts elastin and collagen production and, eventually, produces new skin cells. These powerful lasers can treat everything from sun damage and pigmentation to scarring and deep wrinkles.
FAQs
Face taping does work as an immediate strategy to reduce fine lines and wrinkles; however, the technique can cause irritation in the short term and even create more visible signs of aging in the long term, according to plastic surgeons.
Does face taping actually work? ›
Face taping does work as an immediate strategy to reduce fine lines and wrinkles; however, the technique can cause irritation in the short term and even create more visible signs of aging in the long term, according to plastic surgeons.
Is facelift tape bad for your skin? ›
Using Facial Tape for an 'Instant' Facelift
Dr. Engelman advises against using tapes for long periods of time because they can actually have the inverse effect. “Extended usage of these adhesive tapes could cause exaggerated stretching to the skin and actually accelerate signs of aging,” she cautions.
What is the best medical tape for face taping? ›
When it comes to medical adhesive tape that's strong, durable, and flexible, zinc oxide tape (sports tape) is the answer.
Does face taping reduce wrinkles? ›
Face taping, a beauty hack that's trending on TikTok, claims to get rid of wrinkles and smooth out fine lines. Experts say that face taping does not get rid of wrinkles and fine lines, but it can be a temporary way to slow the rate at which wrinkles form.
Do celebrities use face lift tape? ›
Although face tape is mainly used by celebrity makeup artists on social media, the effect of seeing subtly enhanced faces like these is rarely discussed, particularly in regard to our self-esteem.
What are the side effects of face tape? ›
“The tape can take off the stratum corneum, the outer layer of your skin,” he explains. “You're also using toxic glues on your face, which can cause dermatitis or irritation to the skin. You could also cause an allergic reaction.” There's a risk of causing blisters, too, which can lead to scarring.
Do actresses use face tape? ›
“From drag performers to movie stars, face taping has been used to help instantly lift the skin and disguise wrinkles in strategic places. By taping the face up in certain vectors, you can give an instant facelift effect.”
Why do celebrities put tape on their face? ›
Face-lift tape has been used by makeup artists for decades as a way to create temporary lift and complement makeup looks. “Face-lift tapes were perfected in 1969 by makeup artist and hairstylist Mark Traynor and have been used ever since,” says celebrity makeup artist Allan Avedaño.
Does face tapping increase collagen? ›
Just five minutes a day of regular tapping:
plumps the face and smoothes wrinkles by stimulating collagen production; normalizes the activity of oil and sweat glands.
Adhesive paper tapes such as Micropore are proven to reduce the possibility of scars becoming raised and are effective in applying gentle and constant pressure to the incision, protecting and supporting the wound. Taping the scar also has the advantage of providing UV protection while in the healing phase.
How long do you leave face tape on? ›
Dr. Vasyukevich agrees and says the tapes are good for a three minute video but should not be worn longer than a few hours.
How often should you use face tape? ›
We recommend that you do daily Facial Taping for 30 days to get the best results. After that, taping can be done a few times a week.
Where do you put face tape for wrinkles? ›
The method is pretty straightforward: users are applying tape to areas of the face where they wish to reduce the appearance of wrinkles or fine lines (mostly on their foreheads) and wear the tape overnight to prevent movement.
Can tape damage your skin? ›
Superficial skin damage can occur when adhesive products are used. Skin stripping and tension blisters are the most common problems associated with taping. Many of these injuries may be prevented by correct use including careful attention to skin preparation, choice of tape, and proper application and removal of tape.
Do you put makeup on face tape? ›
If you're set on trying face tape, Vincent recommends applying it on clean, bare skin. "For the best grip, use a toner or witch hazel to remove any oils that could interfere with the adhesive," she says. "Then, apply your complexion makeup as usual, going over the face tape.
How can I rebuild collagen in my face naturally? ›
Eat a healthy diet high in nutrients including vitamins A11 and C. Follow a daily skin care routine that includes sunscreen and topical retinol. Avoid smoking, as research shows that tobacco smoke reduces the production of collagen and elastin.
What stimulates collagen in face? ›
Slather on a vitamin C serum in the morning. The vitamin is an antioxidant that protects the collagen in your skin against UV damage, says Chwalek. More than that, she says, it triggers collagen formation and stabilizes the collagen proteins in skin.
How can I speed up collagen in my face? ›
Eating foods that contain vitamin C and antioxidants, avoiding smoking, limiting caffeine intake, and protecting the skin from sunlight may all help preserve collagen or boost its production.
How does the doctor remove surgical tape? ›
Medicated tape or adhesive bandage can readily and painlessly be removed from the patient by moistening the bandage with a little pure ethyl acetate held in absorbent cotton, by sopping lightly over the entire surface of the bandage or tape.
Micropore Surgical Tape (White, 3-inchx10Yards), 4 Rolls First Aid Tape (Pack of 4)
| Brand | Micropore |
|---|
| Material | Paper |
| Elastic | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Size | 3-inchx10Yards |
3 more rowsMedical tapes are used to secure dressings. Medical tapes are commonly called surgical tapes.
Is Shape Tape for mature skin? ›
This new formula is suitable for all skin types, but is especially nourishing for dry or mature skin.
Is tarte face tape foundation good for mature skin? ›
Their trademarked Tape Technology also makes skin look smoother. It has a matte formula so it looks natural. It's ideal for all skin types, including mature skin.
Are shape tapes worth it? ›
Shape Tape is a perfect concealer. It's very full coverage yet the formula is lightweight. You can cover blemishes easily and blend out the concealer seamlessly and with no dryness or flaking on the skin. They really nailed this formula and it truly is hydrating for providing such an opaque coverage.
How do you hide face tape? ›
Hairstyling is the best method for concealing the section where the tape meets your hairline and attaches to the elasticized band." Celebrity makeup artist Tarryn Feldman says alignment is key, which is why it's important to make sure you're applying the tape to the exact same area on each side of the face.
Does face tape work for double chin? ›
The face lifting tape is designed to instantly lift sagging skin around the face, effectively enhances the skin firmness, hiding double chin, and create a V-shape face. It will work perfectly with your makeup, great face lifter tape for women.
How long does face tapping take to work? ›
Proponents say major evidence of skin tightening, improved skin tone, as well as a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, is apparent after four weeks of tapping for just five minutes a day.
What are the benefits of face taping? ›
By wearing it overnight, the tape should ideally constrict muscles and limit their motion, preventing you from frowning or making other line-inducing expressions in your sleep. It's also said to reduce and prevent lines caused by sleeping on your side and stomach.
How long does face lift tape stay on? ›
Aguilar, on the other hand, recommends wearing it for a shorter amount of time so as not to pull on the skin or risk irritation. "If someone is going to use face tape, I recommend not leaving the tape on for more than three hours, or removing it as soon as it begins to tingle, itch, or become uncomfortable," she says.
EFT tapping has been extensively studied in people with PTSD and trauma and has been found to be an effective treatment for some, when received as a therapeutic approach from a licensed practitioner.
How many times a day should you do tapping therapy? ›
Lower intensity issues may only require four or five rounds to provide relief, while more intense issues may take 10 or 12 rounds. Intense or chronic issues are best addressed through consistent tapping over time. The benefits are cumulative, meaning you will get the best results by tapping everyday.
Can you rebuild collagen in your face? ›
Collagen levels decrease with age and, unfortunately, there's no way to prevent this. The good news is that there are several cosmetic treatments that can rebuild or restore collagen.
Can face tape get rid of double chin? ›
All you need to do is gather the skin around the nape of the neck, tape one end, pull it back and tape the other end. The tape can be easily covered by your hair. Genius, isn't it? Before you apply the tape, clean your neck and keep it dry for the tape to stick.
How many years does a thread lift take off? ›
How long does a thread lift last? Results from a thread lift are temporary, lasting from one to three years. Over time, the threads dissolve, and your body absorbs them. If you like your results, you can have another thread lift procedure.
How do you remove Kinesio tape from your face? ›
Because K-Tape is much stronger than a regular band-aid, it is a little trickier to remove.
...
How to Remove K-Tape
- Pour or rub baby oil directly on the tape.
- Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Peel it off slowly while gently tugging the skin in the opposite direction.
