While topical skincare can’t fully replicate the results of Botox or fillers, the right ingredients can work wonders to soften lines and plump your skin so that wrinkles will hide and you will have that dewy, plump glow. I’m actually putting this to the test right now. I’ve decided to embrace a 'no-Botox' period to see exactly what a dedicated topical routine can achieve on its own. Stay tuned for the results.

1. Argireline Solution 10%

Often dubbed 'Botox in a bottle,' it works by gently blocking the signals that tell our facial muscles to contract when we smile or squint. In the short term, this gives my skin a more relaxed, 'soft-focus' look. Long term, it's a preventative powerhouse—by keeping those repetitive expressions in check, it helps stop new lines from forming while significantly softening the depth of the ones I already have. It’s the perfect non-invasive wingman for my 'no-Botox' mission! Shop it here. Currently, it is $9.70 at Ulta.

What it does:

• Relaxes facial tension in expression lines

• Softens forehead lines, crow’s feet, smile lines

Why it works:

• Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-8) reduces muscle contraction signals

• Best for dynamic wrinkles (wrinkles that appear when your facial muscles move)

How to use:

• AM + PM

• Apply directly to forehead, between brows, around eyes

• Use before heavier serums

📝 Realistic result: softer lines, not frozen

2. Matrixyl 10% + HA

Collagen support = filler vibes

Think of the Matrixyl 10% + HA serum as a two-phase approach to anti-aging. The Hyaluronic Acid gives you that immediate win—it's a moisture magnet that instantly plumps the skin and smooths out fine lines for a dewy glow. Meanwhile, the Matrixyl is playing the long game. It acts as a messenger, signaling your skin to produce more collagen and elastin. So, while the HA makes you look great today, the Matrixyl is working behind the scenes to firm your skin and soften those deeper wrinkles for the long haul." Shop it here.

What it does:

• Improves skin firmness and elasticity

• Helps skin look plumper over time

Why it works:

• Peptides signal collagen production

• Hyaluronic acid adds hydration = fullness

How to use:

• AM + PM

• All over face and neck

• Layer after Argireline

Think: long-term structure support

3. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a humectant-based serum formulated to improve skin hydration, elasticity, and barrier function. Hyaluronic acid binds water within the epidermis, increasing moisture content and temporarily reducing the appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration. The inclusion of vitamin B5 (panthenol) supports barrier repair and enhances long-term hydration by improving the skin’s ability to retain moisture. This lightweight, non-comedogenic formulation is suitable for daily use and layers well with other active ingredients, making it effective for dehydrated, aging, or compromised skin. Shop it here. It is currently $9.90 at Ulta with a free gift with purchase if you spend $15.

What it does:

• Plumps fine lines temporarily

• Smooths texture immediately

Why it works:

• Draws moisture into skin

• Makes lines look less noticeable fast

How to use:

• On damp skin

• Seal with moisturizer

📝 This is your instant gratification step

4. Retinol 0.2%–0.5% in Squalane

Retinol 0.2%–0.5% in Squalane is a vitamin A derivative used to improve skin texture, tone, and signs of photoaging. Retinol works by increasing cellular turnover and stimulating collagen production, which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven pigmentation over time. The squalane base provides emollient support, improving tolerability by reducing dryness and irritation commonly associated with retinoid use. Lower concentrations (0.2%) are appropriate for retinoid-naïve or sensitive skin, while 0.5% offers a stronger effect for more experienced users seeking enhanced anti-aging and skin-smoothing benefits. Shop it here.

What it does:

• Stimulates collagen

• Improves texture, fine lines, and tone

Why it matters:

• Retinoids are one of the few proven anti-aging ingredients

• Helps maintain results long-term

How to use:

• PM only

• Start 2–3 nights/week

• Follow with a barrier-friendly moisturizer

⚠️ Reminder: no Argireline on the same night as retinol (pH issues)

5. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA plays a critical role in everyday skin health. A strong, well-hydrated skin barrier helps reduce water loss, minimizes irritation, and improves how skin responds to environmental stressors like cold weather, heat, wind, and active ingredients (think retinol or acids). When the barrier is functioning properly, skin looks smoother, feels more comfortable, and is less prone to redness, flaking, or sensitivity.

From a long-term standpoint, maintaining barrier integrity helps slow visible aging by reducing chronic low-grade inflammation and supporting consistent cell turnover. Simply put, this cream helps skin function the way it’s designed to — making it an essential daily moisturizer for anyone who wants healthier, calmer, more resilient skin, procedures or not. Shop it here. Free gift with purchase at Ulta.

What it does:

• Supports skin barrier

• Prevents irritation from actives

Why it matters:

• Botox/filler alternatives don’t work on compromised skin

• Barrier health = smoother appearance

Example Routine (Botox-Alternative Friendly)

Morning

1. Gentle cleanse

2. Argireline (targeted areas)

3. Matrixyl (full face)

4. Hyaluronic Acid

5. Moisturizer

6. SPF (non-negotiable)

Night

• Non-retinol nights: same as AM minus SPF

• Retinol nights: cleanse → retinol → moisturizer

At the end of the day, great skin doesn’t have to mean needles, fillers, or a medicine cabinet full of trendy products. Sometimes it looks a lot more like consistency, patience, and choosing ingredients that actually do something. That’s why I keep coming back to The Ordinary. It’s not flashy, it doesn’t smell like a spa, and it won’t look cute on your vanity — but it’s grounded in real science, backed by research, and it works. Oh and these serums/cream are all less then $10 each.

I love knowing exactly what I’m putting on my skin and why. If you’re looking for ways to support healthy, glowing, youthful skin without jumping straight to Botox or filler, these products are a solid place to start. Aging is a gift, but feeling confident in your skin is too — and you don’t have to choose one or the other.

XOXO,

SG

The Ordinary Products That Have a Botox or Filler Effect at a very affordable price.