I Tried the Wrinkle Patches That TikTok Calls an Alternative to Botox on My Over-40-Year-Old Skin
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In the past few years, my skin concerns went from acne to aging. No longer do I have to deal with big ol’ cystic pimples, but now that I’m over 40 (allegedly), I’ve become extra aware of fine lines and wrinkles. Don’t get me wrong, aging is a blessing and I try to think of my lines as like the rings on a tree (especially the ones on my neck), symbolizing my life’s journey! That being said, I dabble in Botox and wish my forehead wrinkles weren’t as deep (or static!), and, like many other women my age, I have a pretty serious skincare routine that focuses on hydration and wrinkle prevention.
Since I’m due for a Botox appointment, I’ve noticed my lines look more prominent lately. So, I need a quick fix! That’s where SiO Beauty Wrinkle Patches come in. People (especially on TikTok) like to call wrinkle patches “Botox alternatives,” which immediately piqued my interest. In the past, I’ve used chest wrinkle patches (specifically the SiO Beauty Chestlift) and had great results, so I was excited to see how the other patches would work on my skin. (Oh, and in case anyone didn’t know, Britney Spears has used the BrowLift previously!)
What are the SiO Beauty Wrinkle Patches?
In recent years, wrinkle patches have gained popularity as a non-invasive, easy-to-use option for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. SiO Beauty was founded by Gigi Howard in 2014 when she wanted to find a solution to her deepening chest wrinkles. The answer was silicone patches. Made from medical-grade silicone, the same material used in healing treatments for scars, SiO Beauty Wrinkle Patches work by creating a microclimate on the skin’s surface, locking in moisture and helping to plump the skin. There are SiO Beauty Wrinkle Patches for specific areas common for wrinkles, such as the forehead, eyes, smile lines, chest, and neck.
The Benefits of Using SiO Wrinkle Patches, According to an Expert
Since the SiO Wrinkle Patches create a moisture-trapping barrier on the skin, they help restore and retain hydration. Of course, having properly hydrated skin is one of the most effective anti-aging tools—plus, dry skin can make fine lines and wrinkles even more noticeable.
The SiO patches are also soft and flexible like “a second skin,” making them comfortable enough to wear overnight or for several hours during the day. While typical face creams and serums can take a while to bring noticeable results, the SiO Beauty Wrinkle Patches are instant. Skin can look smooth, supple, and more plump. Even more, with regular use, the patches may help prevent the appearance of future wrinkles.
Before testing the SiO Wrinkle Patches myself, I wanted to get an expert’s opinion on the general concept of silicone patches, so I reached out to Dr. Melanie Palm, MD, MBA, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Art of Skin MD in San Diego, CA. Dr. Palm explained that silicone patches create an occlusive environment that improves hydration, prevents water loss, and boosts collagen production by increasing blood flow to the area. “By helping the skin retain water, they offer a temporary plumping effect that makes the skin look smoother,” she said. However, Dr. Palm pointed out an interesting risk. “While silicone patches are safe to use daily or nightly, their occlusive nature can sometimes lead to breakouts,” she said. “It’s important to patch test silicone patches first before using them for extended periods of time, as the adhesive on the back of the patch can sometimes cause an allergic reaction for those with sensitive skin.”
What about the whole “Botox alternative” thing? I asked Dr. Palm how effective the patches compare to other wrinkle treatments. “Silicone patches provide noticeable short-term benefits, but I wouldn’t recommend them as a permanent solution,” she said. “Over time, the skin is still able to crease and fold, thus causing wrinkles. Therefore, while silicone patches are a useful addition to a skincare routine, especially the night before a special event, other treatments might be necessary for long-term wrinkle reduction.”
How I Tested SiO Wrinkle Patches
I tested a variety of patches (as you’ll see below) two ways: overnight as I slept and during the day for five hours while I worked at my desk. I graded them on different factors, including application, how they felt on my skin, efficacy (whether I saw a difference in my wrinkles), and cost.
SiO Eye & Smile Lift
Because the skin underneath our eyes is thinner and more delicate, removing the patches was a bit jarring (I hate seeing my skin pulled), but they warn you to make sure your skin is taut for removal. I had a bit of a learning curve doing that. Also, I noticed a slight visible line where I removed the patches, but it disappeared pretty quickly.
Pros: Dermatologist-approved, cruelty-free, each patch is reusable up to 10 times, patches are pregnancy-safe
Cons: Need to take extra care for removal, slight visible line where the patch was under my eye (but went away quickly), eye & smile set only contains one pair (so you can’t treat both areas simultaneously)
SiO BrowLift
Pros: Reusable up to 10 times with proper aftercare, easy to clean, hypoallergenic, helped makeup go on easier
Cons: Might leave pitting (but goes away quickly), may not work against deepset wrinkles
SiO NeckLift
Pros: Can reuse patch up to 10 times, nice for daytime use, since it protects neck when looking at phone, with consistent use it can keep more wrinkles from forming
Cons: Patch can get caught in long hair while sleeping, may be the least comfortable of the patches due to placement
SiO Facelift
Pros: Each patch is reusable up to 10 times, convenient set of patches for all major areas
Cons: Pricey, but the cost per wear makes them worth it, can’t use skincare underneath the patches, which some people may not like
My Overall Thoughts
Overall, I’m a fan of the SiO Beauty Wrinkle Patches. They made my skin look instantly brighter, especially the under-eye area, which is one of my biggest concerns. Because they’re a temporary fix, I wouldn’t say they’d replace anything from my current skincare routine, nor would they totally replace Botox. Still, there is an upside, as they are fantastic for prepping for a big event or day when you want your skin to look amazing and your makeup to go on more effortlessly.
I am curious about long-term use, and whether my wrinkles could improve over time. The only thing is, you can’t use any products underneath the patches, and I love my skincare routine. The best approach would most likely be to alternate between the patches and regular moisturizers and serums—I’m wondering if others have had good results that way. I also want to say that the ChestLift is an amazing product, and I honestly wish I had tested it for this review as well! It’s been years since I’ve used it, but that patch was a miracle for my chest wrinkles.
The SiO Beauty Wrinkle Patches might seem pricey initially for something that’s not your typical skin care product. Still, if you take care of them properly, they can be used up to 10 times, and using Girl Math makes them an incredible steal.
