Plastic Surgeon Addresses Viral TikTok Claiming Flax Seed Can Replace Botox

A TikTok video that claims a flax seed mixture can replace Botox has gone viral with more than 6 million views. But is there any truth to the claim?

The Blast spoke to a New York City facial plastic surgeon and facelift expert to see what value this "at-home Botox" treatment actually offers.

TikTok creator Victoria Benitez shared a video that shows her using a flax seed mixture on her face and claiming, "This is Botox."

"This is Botox that you make at home, honey," she said in the video. "And the best part, it's two ingredients - flax seeds and water."

Benitez also said you can also put the mixture in your hair and use it as a natural shampoo. As she's slathering the mixture on her face and in her hair, she said, "My skin right now is having a freaking party, the fatty acids are getting in there."

She then explained the many benefits of flax seeds, including giving your skin a glow and being anti-inflammatory which will reduce any redness.

Many viewers dropped into the comments to discuss this information.

"My dad has been using this forever on his hair. He is 74 and has a full head of hair with zero balding," one person wrote.

Another added, "This stuff is great, but I’ll check back with you when you’re 47 to see if it’s as good as Botox."

Dr. Konstantin Vasyukevich, a facial plastic surgeon and facelift expert based out of New York City, gave his take on the claims in the viral TikTok video.

"Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. While putting flax seed mixture on your skin will leave you with a radiant glow, it cannot penetrate deep enough to mimic Botox in the same way," Dr. Vasyukevich told The Blast exclusively. "Botox works by temporarily paralyzing muscles to reduce wrinkles, while flax seeds primarily support skin health through nutritional benefits."

Dr. Vasyukevich said that for someone who doesn't want to get Botox but would like a similar outcome, there are some things that can be done at home.

"For those seeking Botox-like outcomes without the procedure, a consistent skincare routine is key! Focus on ingredients like retinoids for fine lines, hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for skin brightness, and incorporating peptides, which stimulate your skin to make collagen," he explained.

"Consistently using a gua sha tool in an upward formation can be used to reduce puffiness and inflammation, which can help to create a fresher look."

Dr. Vasyukevich also suggested starting a good skincare routine in your early 20s to "help skin age gracefully and delay visible signs of aging."

"A proper daily skincare routine using a cleanser, exfoliation, facial toner, and moisturizer will help protect, repair, and maintain healthy radiant skin," he said. "Prevention is key, and incorporating products with antioxidants, retinoids, and sun protection can help maintain youthful skin."

For anyone interested in getting Botox, Dr. Vasyukevich said the best time to start is when you begin to see fine lines or wrinkles, which can happen in the mid-20s or early 30s, but varies based on genetics, sun exposure and skincare practices.

"If considering Botox, consistency is key to maintaining the results of your treatments," he said. "Injections typically range from every three to six months, with individual variations based on lifestyle and desired outcomes."

Dr. Vasyukevich said that TikTok skincare hacks can be both helpful and hurtful and it's crucial to approach TikTok skincare advice with caution and consult with a dermatologist before trying anything new.