From the Research
Forehead wrinkle patches like Schminkles are not effective for treating wrinkles long-term, and medical treatments like Botox injections or prescription retinoids are more effective for significant and lasting wrinkle reduction. These silicone patches work by physically flattening and smoothing the skin while you sleep, preventing the muscle movements that cause wrinkles, and potentially increasing hydration to the skin's surface. They typically need to be worn for 1-8 hours (often overnight) and used consistently over time. While some users report visible improvements after regular use, the effects are temporary and fade once you stop using the patches. For more significant and lasting wrinkle reduction, medical treatments like Botox injections (which temporarily paralyze the muscles causing wrinkles) 1, prescription retinoids (like tretinoin 0.025%-0.1%), or professional procedures such as laser therapy or microneedling would be more effective. Some studies suggest that focused cold therapy may also be an effective and safe alternative to popular wrinkle-reducing treatments 2. Additionally, a refined injection pattern accommodating the lower frontalis has been shown to be an effective and safe technique to treat horizontal forehead lines with botulinum toxin type A 3. It's also worth noting that the severity of wrinkling at the forehead is related to the degree of ptosis of the upper eyelid 4. Wrinkle patches may be a good option for those seeking a non-invasive, temporary solution or as a complement to other anti-aging treatments, but they cannot replace the results of medical interventions for persistent wrinkles. Key points to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of forehead wrinkle patches include:
- The temporary nature of the results
- The need for consistent use
- The potential for increased hydration to the skin's surface
- The comparison to medical treatments like Botox injections or prescription retinoids
- The consideration of alternative treatments like focused cold therapy or a refined injection pattern with botulinum toxin type A.