Expert opinion on facial contouring devices: Effectiveness explored
In the world of beauty and skincare, face wraps have been gaining popularity as a quick fix for facial sculpting and skin tightening. However, it's essential to understand their limitations and potential risks before jumping on the bandwagon.
Dr. Peter Bittar, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, and Dr. Michelle Lee, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, both emphasize that face wraps do not produce long-term structural changes or meaningful tightening of the skin in people who have not undergone surgery.
These wraps, often found on platforms like Amazon, mimic post-surgical compression garments used to reduce swelling after procedures like facelifts or neck liposuction. While post-op compression has a clear clinical function, using such wraps outside this context is primarily cosmetic and temporary. The perceived lift or "snatched" look disappears once the wrap is removed.
Medical experts warn about several potential downsides of regular or improper use of face wraps. Skin irritation or allergic reactions to the materials, disruption of facial circulation, possible weakening of facial muscles, and rare instances of discomfort such as a choking sensation or reflux if worn too tightly are all potential risks.
Leading dermatologists recommend more effective alternatives such as topical skincare ingredients (e.g., retinol) and in-office treatments for firming and contouring, rather than relying on compression wraps which lack evidence for efficacy. Skincare products with ingredients like retinoids and peptides can help with skin elasticity, providing a more sustainable solution.
For instance, the SkinBetter Science InterFuse Treatment Cream, the Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster, the RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Retinol Face Serum, and the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Retinol Cream are all previously recommended skincare products that can help with skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
In-office procedures such as lasers, fillers, bio-stimulatory injectables, fat removal, or surgical lifts are typically needed for a significant impact on the shape of the face and neck. A low-sodium diet can also help reduce overall facial puffiness.
Face sculpting bands, also known as compression garments, are primarily used in post-operative recovery following facial plastic surgery to reduce facial swelling and promote tissue healing.
In conclusion, while face wraps may temporarily smooth or tighten the face’s appearance through compression, they do not result in lasting sculpting or anti-aging benefits and carry modest risks related to skin and muscle health if overused. It's always best to consult with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon for professional advice on the most effective skincare and beauty solutions.
Sources: [1] NBC Select [3] Bethany Heitman, NBC Select contributor and journalist regularly covering topics like beauty, home, and lifestyle who debunks popular skin care trends and online fads.
Dr. Peter Bittar and Dr. Michelle Lee, both dermatologists and plastic surgeons, assert that face wraps do not bring long-term structural changes or significantly tighten the skin of individuals who have not undergone surgery. Instead, they recommend topical skincare ingredients like retinol and peptides, such as the SkinBetter Science InterFuse Treatment Cream, Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster, RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Retinol Face Serum, and Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Retinol Cream, for addressing skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
