Do Frownies Really Work?
Frownies facial patches have been around for more than a century, but these old-fashioned wrinkle patches have recently become even more popular. Especially for people looking for natural, non-invasive ways to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (A.K.A.: the no botox crowd). Instead of injections, Frownies offer a simple approach that you can incorporate into your nighttime skincare routine.
But do Frownies really work? If you’ve been wondering whether sticking patches to your forehead before bed can actually make a difference, you are not alone. I get asked about Frownies so often! So let’s dive into what kind of results you can realistically expect can help you decide whether they are worth adding to your skincare routine.
Do Frownies Really Work?
Yes (for the most part), but the results are not a magic replacement for botox. Frownies are designed to hold the skin in a smooth position while you wear them, limiting repeated movement of the facial muscles in the areas where expression lines form. The company describes the patches as acting like a splint or cast over the skin and underlying facial muscles.
Some people notice a smoother appearance after wearing Frownies, while longer-term results depend on consistent use. Frownies recommends wearing the patches nightly for about 30 nights initially, followed by several nights per week for maintenance.
I’ve only used them on my forehead and between my brows (the 11’s) and I do notice a difference when I wake up and peel them off. But as I move my face throughout the day, the lines tend to creep back in. Though I will say, the lines seem less overall when I’m using Frownies consistently. I also have found that I furrow my brow while sleeping so these do keep my 11’s smoother.
Of course, you’ll have better results using them along with foundational skincare products like moisturizer, skin serum, eye cream, and even eye gels.
For more guidance on creating an effective routine, see this guide to how to build skincare routine.
What Are Frownies?
Frownies are facial patches made from unbleached kraft paper and a water-activated, starch-based adhesive. They are a non-invasive alternative for people who want to address the appearance of expression lines without injections.
The wrinkle patches are placed over areas where repeated facial expressions contribute to lines, such as the forehead and between the eyebrows. Frownies work by helping hold the skin in place while you sleep.
How Do Frownies Work?
They Limit Facial Movement
By holding the area in a smooth position, the patches can limit some of the repetitive movement of the facial muscles that contributes to expression lines.
They Smooth the Appearance of Lines
When the skin is held flat for several hours, fine lines can appear less noticeable. This is one reason people may see a difference after wearing Frownies overnight, although individual results vary.
Consistency Matters
Frownies recommends regular use, particularly when first starting. The company recommends nightly application for 30 nights before transitioning to less frequent maintenance use. I see the best results when I’m using them regularly.
Keep Expectations Realistic
Frownies are not designed to tighten loose skin or completely erase wrinkles. They are best thought of as a non-invasive tool that may help smooth the appearance of expression lines.
If you enjoy facial massage as part of your routine, you may also want to explore the gua sha massage benefits and how facial massage can complement your overall skincare routine.
How To Apply Frownies:
Prepare Your Skin
Start with clean skin and apply your usual skincare products. If you use a moisturizer, allow it to fully absorb before applying Frownies so the patches can adhere properly. I usually just lightly apply moisturizer in the area I apply the patches. (Frownies advises against applying the patches over broken, irritated, or damaged skin.)
Moisten the Shiny Side
Separate the patches along the perforations and moisten the shiny side with Frownies Rose Water Hydrator, warm water, or I use whatever rosewater I happen to have. The moisture activates the starch-based adhesive.
Apply the Patch
Once the patch becomes tacky, gently hold the skin smooth and apply the patch to the desired area. Frownies recommends overlapping patches to create a continuous cast over the forehead. Avoid pulling or overstretching the skin as you apply them. Sometimes I have to hold the edges down for a few second so they don’t peel up.
Wear Consistently
Frownies recommends wearing the patches overnight or for at least three hours.
Remove Gently
When you are ready to remove the patches, thoroughly soak them with warm water to dissolve the adhesive. Then gently slide your fingers underneath to lift them away rather than pulling them off dry. Thats the official recommended way though I may be guilty of just ripping mine off sometimes lol.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frownies
What Are Frownies Made Of?
Original Frownies facial patches are made from unbleached kraft paper and a water-activated, starch-based adhesive.
Can You Reuse Frownies?
The original Frownies facial patches are designed for single use. This is different from some Frownies products, such as their under-eye gels and serum patches, which are specifically designed to be reused.
How Long Do Frownies Last?
An unopened box of Frownies facial patches can keep indefinitely (just store in a cool, dry place). One box contains 144 individual patches, although the number of applications depends on how many patches you use each night.
Are Frownies Pregnancy Safe?
Frownies states that its original facial patches are pregnancy and breastfeeding safe because they contain no active ingredients and are made from paper and vegetable-starch adhesive. However, pregnancy can make skin more sensitive, so you may want to go slow and try one or even cut a little off of one to test it,
Are Frownies Toxic?
In my opinion, no. The original patches contain unbleached kraft paper and a water-activated starch-based adhesive. Frownies also states that its patches are latex- and silicone-free and have undergone testing for irritation and sensitization.
How Long Do Frownies Take To Work?
Results vary. Some people may notice a smoother-looking appearance quickly, while others need consistent use over several weeks. Frownies recommends nightly use for 30 nights when starting, although its application guidance notes that full skin-cell turnover can take up to 12 weeks.
Ultimately, Frownies are easy to use and probably worth considering if you are looking for a simple, non-invasive addition to your skincare routine. Just keep your expectations realistic: wrinkle patches aren’t the same as injections, but they may be a useful tool for temporarily smoothing the appearance of expression lines.
*Post contains affiliate links. All opinions are always my own
