Skincare TikTok is at it again. The latest trend to make the rounds? Baby Botox. Before you close this article in outrage, let me explain. Baby Botox has nothing to do with actual babies. To put it simply, it’s just a smaller dose of Botox. Next, you may be wondering how it differs from regular Botox, just why TikTok users can’t stop raving about it, and what you should know before trying it. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered on all of the above. I asked nurse injector Revay Plunkett of Revay Aesthetics to give us the inside scoop on this latest trend. For all her insight and favorite products to help results last, read on below. 

For those who are wanting a bit more information on baby Botox and how it differs from regular old Botox, here’s the scoop. Baby Botox (also known as mini tox) is simply a smaller dose of Botox. “It’s a small strategic dose of neurotoxin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles while still retaining facial movement,” explains Plunkett. “Baby Botox is popular with younger patients whose wrinkles are only starting to form and required a smaller dose. Regular Botox is just a neurotoxin for someone who is older with deeper-set lines and wrinkles.”

Honestly, once I understood this, it all made sense why TikTok loves it—you receive the benefits of Botox without losing all movement in your face, which, let’s be real, we’ve seen happen one too many times to folks. It’s also great if you’re interested in dipping your toe into the world of Botox before receiving a full-dose treatment. Plunkett elaborates on why TikTok is in full craze mode over it. Hint: It’s perfect for those in their early 20s. “Baby Botox uses the same botulinum toxin solution as standard Botox treatment. The difference is the technique in which it is used. The best way to describe it is that a baby Botox treatment is preventative, and [a regular] Botox treatment is corrective,” she says.

I’ll be totally honest. Even though I’m a beauty editor and love a good TikTok trend, I don’t actually get or recommend getting Botox, sorry. Obviously, it’s everyone’s own personal choice what they would like to do, but I think it’s also important to talk about the risks and potential side effects that come with getting a treatment like this. When it comes to Botox, they aren’t great—that’s why I’m not a huge advocate for it. Plunkett says, “Baby Botox may be less risky than Botox, but there is still a risk of undesirable side effects, as there is with any cosmetic procedure.”

“Common side effects include swelling or bruising at the injection site, headache or flu-like symptoms, muscle weakness, dry mouth, and dropping of the eyebrows. In rare cases, severe side effects can occur such as neck pain, fatigue, allergic reaction, blurred vision, nausea, dizziness, or vomiting.” Botox is also a neurotoxin, meaning it’s a synthetic substance that affect nerves and can cause muscle weakening. Although it’s generally considered safe, you’ll definitely want to proceed with caution here.

In terms of cost, the good news is that baby Botox is a bit cheaper than regular Botox due to it being administered in a lower dose. “[If getting] 30 to 50 units of baby Botox, it will cost you around $390 to $650, depending on your region and what type of neurotoxins used. One hundred units of Botox will cost around $1300,” Plunkett shares. Lastly, in order to help treatments last longer, Plunkett recommends investing in a solid retinol cream or serum and products made specifically for helping expression lines. For a few of her recs and other products to try, keep scrolling below.

“This is a great option because it’s made specifically for dealing with expression lines.” —Plunkett

“It’s good to incorporate retinol to prevent any new lines from forming. The Alpharet Overnight Cream by Skinbetter Science is our favorite!” — Plunkett

This gel-serum is a gentle encapsulated form of retinol that works to soften fine lines while minimizing irritation. It’s a personal favorite of mine since it’s so gentle but still extremely effective.

As far as budget retinols go, L’Oréal offers a good one. It’s incredibly hydrating with pure hyaluronic acid and the addition of vitamin C to the formula provides the skin with an instant dewy glow.

Formulated with retinol tri-active technology and niacinamide, this night cream supports cell turnover, minimizes wrinkles, and reinforces the skin’s natural protective barrier.

For those with sensitive skin who can’t use regular retinol, try this retinol-alternative from Biossance. It contains bakuchiol, a plant-based ingredient that has similar effects and properties that retinol does but doesn’t irritate the skin.

Neutrogena’s youth-promoting cream has two star ingredients, retinol and hyaluronic acid, to help your baby Botox results last a bit longer.

This organic serum uses spilanthol, a plant-based extract that has similar effects on fine lines and wrinkles as Botox without added risks or side effects. It reduces muscle contractions in the face to help tighten and smooth the skin. This is an option I’ll definitely be trying, TBH.

This higher-strength formula from Paula’s Choice is for seasoned retinol users. It’s effective and contains other soothing ingredients like oat, willow bark, and licorice extract.

Don’t be fooled by the odd brand name—buyers are raving about this budget collagen and retinol cream. 

Hydrate and rejuvenate your skin overnight with this luxe cream with retinol, niacinamide, and antioxidants. It helps diminish the appearance of fine lines, boosts the skin’s barrier, and fights free radical damage.

Up Next: Hyaluronic Acid vs. Retinol: Derms Explain Which One Is Better