Facial taping is a noninvasive technique for smoothing wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It involves applying tape to the face overnight to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It’s been used for decades to treat certain health conditions, like Bell’s palsy.

The goal of facial taping is to keep the facial muscles in place and prevent the formation of wrinkles. Most people who practice facial taping apply the tape at bedtime and sleep in it. At this time, no studies prove the safety or effectiveness of facial taping, and most experts believe the benefits are temporary.

It’s common to move your face during sleep—most people make facial expressions while dreaming. Facial taping may reduce the look of wrinkles and fine lines in the morning by keeping your facial muscles still overnight.

Taping can also smooth out your skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. However, these results will likely fade during the day. 

Wrinkles form as a result of repeated muscle movements, sun exposure, and environmental pollutants like cigarette smoke. As you age, your skin produces less collagen, a protein that gives skin its elasticity. Less collagen makes the skin less elastic and causes wrinkles to form. Skin also becomes thinner and drier over time, increasing the likelihood of fine lines and wrinkles.

Unfortunately, facial taping does not address these underlying causes of wrinkles. At this time, no clinical studies prove that facial taping works.

Botox and Dysport are injectable medications that contain botulinum toxin. These injections are effective at smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. They are also helpful for severe sweating, chronic migraines, overactive bladder, and other chronic (long-term) conditions. 

Botox and Dysport injections are effective wrinkle treatments because they weaken or paralyze certain muscles in the face. They do this by blocking certain nerves that control muscle movement.  These facial injections usually last anywhere from three to six months. 

Like Botox and Dysport injections, facial taping targets the facial muscles to prevent them from moving. However, the effects of facial taping are likely very temporary. 

You may be curious about facial taping. Many people consider it because it is a simple, inexpensive, noninvasive treatment option. Unlike Botox, facial taping can be performed at home with minimal cost or expertise. While this technique is still unproven, the risk of side effects is low. 

Several companies sell facial taping supplies. When performing facial taping, use products designed specifically for the face. Do not use regular scotch or masking tape. 

To try facial taping, take these steps:

1. Choose the area of your face that you would like to treat. The eye area, forehead, cheekbones, jaw, and neck are popular choices. 
2. Using your thumb and first finger, stretch the area of the skin to remove the wrinkles. 
3. Using your other hand, apply the facial tape to the stretched skin. Repeat as many times as necessary. 
4. If comfortable, sleep in the facial tape. In the morning, gently peel the tape off. Apply moisturizer to the skin to prevent dryness. 

No research studies have found side effects of facial taping. However, possible side effects may include skin irritation, acne, or a rash. This can happen any time you try a new product on your face. Facial skin can be sensitive, and small changes to your skincare routine may cause redness or irritation. 

Consider trying a small piece of facial tape on your skin before using it on a large area. Observe the area for any signs of irritation or allergic reaction.

Keeping the skin on your face covered every night may lead to clogged pores and acne. If you notice that your skin is breaking out, take a break from facial taping. 

Facial taping can cause skin damage if you remove the tape too quickly or forcefully. Pulling off the tape in a quick, rough motion may cause some of the skin to come off and lead to a skin lesion. When removing the tape, gently peel it off your skin and stop if you feel pain. 

Most dermatologists agree that lifestyle changes are an effective way to reduce signs of skin aging. Consider the following skincare precautions before facial taping:

• Avoid alcohol 
• Avoid smoking 
• Protect your skin from the sun
• Drink water throughout the day
• Engage in daily physical activity 

Facial taping is the practice of applying tape to the face to prevent the muscles from moving and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. At this time, no research studies have found that facial taping is effective or safe. 

While facial taping may reduce the look of wrinkles, the effects are likely temporary and will disappear later in the day.

Other noninvasive ways to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles include wearing sunscreen daily, wearing a hat in the sun, staying hydrated, eating a nutrient-rich diet, exercising every day, and avoiding cigarette smoke and alcohol.