30 Women of All Ages Share Why They’ve Never Had Botox

To say I've been tempted to jump on the Botox bandwagon is an understatement. As a beauty writer and New Yorker who's nearing the bitter end of her 20s, it's safe to say that I'm surrounded by the seemingly untapped benefits of the wrinkle reducer.

More than half of my close friends and colleagues have gone under the needle, and most of the trusted skincare experts I interview on a constant basis talk endlessly about the long-term advantages of what's being called "preventative Botox." Basically, the idea is that if you prevent the muscles from moving at a young age, the cells "atrophy," or shrink after years of not being used. Thus, you don't develop those deep lines or wrinkles.

It sounds promising, and I'm definitely not one to turn down the chance to try something — especially if it's at no cost to me (a very lucky perk of working in this industry) — but there's just something about Botox that I'm not ready for. Along with this decision has come a great deal of anxiety. Am I missing out on an opportunity to try something I should be doing anyway? Are the few lines I notice on my face getting worse every second that I pass up the chance to let a doctor inject me with the stuff?

Encouragement from others to give it a try doesn't help. I know their comments are harmless, but when a friend said, "You should get Botox — just a little in your forehead," months before my wedding, how was I supposed to take it? Plus, it got me thinking, if these conversations are happening around women my age or younger, what are women a decade or two older talking about? And what is the next level once we're tired of Botox?

I also found myself constantly thinking about who might have gotten Botox and who was taking the all-natural route instead. Some say you can tell if people have had it done or not — but, truly, I'm no expert in detecting it. Sometimes I find myself looking at a beautiful older woman on the subway and I wonder, "Is her skin so nice because she's been getting Botox for years?" This is probably the most upsetting part for me — instantly assuming that because a woman has good skin, she's probably had work done.

We need to stop thinking that we need Botox or any other physically altering enhancement to be any more beautiful than we are in our natural state. For those who get Botox and like the results, all the power to them. The beauty world is clearly behind those who decide to indulge, and my opinion is that if it makes you feel more confident and happy in your own skin, go for it. I just personally choose to care for my skin in different ways (at least for now), mainly through the use of quality products, regular facials, and chugging down several glasses of wine — I mean water! — daily. And I'm far from alone.

I asked women of all ages — from their early 20s to their late 80s — who have never had Botox why they've avoided injections and what tricks of the skin trade they're using to care for their skin.

Alex Valentino, 22, Junior Account Executive in Lyndhurst, New Jersey

Alex Valentino, 22, Junior Account Executive in Lyndhurst, New Jersey

Skincare routine: “Other than my makeup during the day, I only use one product on my face at night, and that’s Rosehip Oil ($12). It’s super cheap — I get it off Amazon. I put one to two pumps on my face every night. At first my face feels very oily, but when I wake up, it’s all absorbed and my skin is left so soft and radiant."

Why I’ve never had Botox: “It seems like a lot of hassle for the sake of getting rid of a few lines and wrinkles. I’ve had many friends, my age and older, who routinely get it done and either they don't look natural, or I don’t notice a change in their face. It seems like a very easy thing to get addicted to. It makes me nervous that once people get it, they’ll start noticing other flaws. To me, if you're unhappy with your wrinkles and fine lines, there are other things to try first, such as moisturizers or other firming products.”

Open to it in the future? “Hmmm . . . I think I'll probably entertain the idea once or twice as I get older, but I don't think that I'll ever do it. My face might have imperfections, but at the end of the day it's me, and I wouldn’t want Botox or anything else to alter it forever.”

Carrie Wu, 24, Healthcare Communications Specialist in Boston, Massachusetts

Carrie Wu, 24, Healthcare Communications Specialist in Boston, Massachusetts

Skincare routine: “I’m fortunate to have very good skin. My face isn't oily — if anything, it just gets a bit dry in the Winter. I never breakout and rarely get pimples. I find the best way to take care of my skin is to eat healthy, exercise, and wash my face twice daily with soap and water. I moisturize with a generic lotion and use Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes ($8) if I’m wearing makeup.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I believe in all-natural beauty and aging; however, I think Botox is a personal choice. If it makes someone feel more confident and happy with their appearances, then I support them.”

Open to it in the future? “Not unless it was for health reasons, like treating bad migraines.”

Allison Schmidt, 25, Freelance Writer in New Orleans, Louisiana

Allison Schmidt, 25, Freelance Writer in New Orleans, Louisiana

Skincare routine: “My skin is very oily and prone to allergic reactions and breakouts. I wash my face morning and night with Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser ($9). For whatever reason, my skin loves it. Since I have oily skin, I keep things light in the morning. I usually use an exfoliating toner like Pixi Glow Tonic ($35) post-cleanse. After that, if I'm feeling dry in some areas, I'll apply Bioderma Hydrabio Serum ($10), a light eye cream, Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel ($20), and a dedicated SPF. At night, I remove makeup with Bioderma Sensibio H2O ($11), wash with Vanicream, and then use more serious serums and exfoliants.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “Frankly, it's not something I want to spend my money on. Also, my mom and my aunts on both sides of my family have aged really well, and I’m 90 percent sure none of them have had Botox. Still, even though it's not something I want to do, I really don't like when people shame others for choosing to have cosmetic work done, including Botox. You should be able to do what you feel is right for your skin.”

Open to it in the future? “I'll try anything once, but I doubt Botox will become part of my skincare routine in the future.”

Rachel Ritlop, 28, Blogger at The Confused Millennial in Delray Beach, Florida

Rachel Ritlop, 28, Blogger at The Confused Millennial in Delray Beach, Florida

Skincare routine: “Every night before bed, I use Trader Joe's Tea Tree Facial Wipes ($18) followed by an anti-aging serum (usually Trader Joe's also), and a nighttime moisturizer. In the morning, I cleanse my skin with Yes To Calming Micellar Water ($4) and apply CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 50 ($13), since it goes on clear and light and has zinc oxide. I generally try to limit makeup and wear a hat when I go outside.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I'm proud of my skin because it's been my armor through life's obstacles. My laugh lines show that I've enjoyed life, and the wrinkles starting around my eyes and brow are a testament to my hard work and ability to overcome adversity. Our body is meant to age and I've seen so many people I'm close to drive themselves crazy trying to fight it.”

Open to it in the future? “Maybe for my underarms. Living in South Florida, it can get really hot and sweaty!”

Allison Zack, 29, Freelance TV Production Coordinator in New York, New York

Allison Zack, 29, Freelance TV Production Coordinator in New York, New York

Skincare routine: “I use Origins everything! I swear by every single one of their products. I wash my face every night before bed (I've missed maybe three nights a year, tops) and follow with a night cream. I love Origins Night-A-Mins ($44) or Origins Plantscription Anti-Aging Serum ($59). I also use an anti-aging eye cream. (The best results happen while you're sleeping!). I wash my face daily and follow with a day moisturizer and brightening eye cream. In addition to basic cleansing and moisturizing, I exfoliate and use a mask once a week, switching it up between rose clay, charcoal, and a peel.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I get nervous when I think of the harmful chemicals entering my skin. I also think I'm too young! I know they say 29 is the ideal time to start, but I honestly don't think I need it!

Open to it in the future? “I'm possibly open to it (never say never), but I know if I stick to my skin regimen now I probably won't ever need it!”

Christina Heiser, 29, Beauty Editor and Freelance Writer in Astoria, New York

Christina Heiser, 29, Beauty Editor and Freelance Writer in Astoria, New York

Skincare routine: “If there's one thing I've learned from my seven-plus years of working in the beauty industry, it's that sunscreen is a must — even in winter! I'm also a skincare minimalist. In the morning, I like to use a purifying cleanser and follow up with a lightweight SPF since my skin is on the oily side and prone to breakouts. My favorites of the moment are the Savannah Bee Charcoal, Propolis, and Volcanic Ash Cleanser ($13) and the Glossier Invisible Shield Sunscreen ($34). At night, I cleanse my skin with Lumene Pure Arctic 3-in-1 Micellar Cleansing Water ($8) and follow up with the Glossier Super Pure Serum ($28), which contains zinc to help minimize breakouts and redness. I tend to get a few whiteheads on my chin and cheeks around my period, so I dab on a spot treatment with glycolic acid and sulfur, like Peter Thomas Roth Acne Spot and Area Treatment ($19), to manage that. Once a week, I use the Epicuren Pumpkin Apple Spice Peel ($50). It smells heavenly and makes my skin glow like no other product ever has (I get compliments on my skin whenever I use it!).”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I'm scared of needles! I can barely handle getting my flu shot every year. Plus, since I'm still in my twenties and don't have any wrinkles (yet!). It just isn't something I've given much thought to at this point in my life.”

Open to it in the future? “Although I'm scared of needles, I wouldn't totally rule out getting Botox in the future. I'm all about doing whatever makes you feel like your best self. For me right now, that's getting a good blowout and putting on a killer red lipstick. But down the line, if I feel that Botox would boost my confidence, I'd be open to giving it a try.”

Elizabeth Ann Shaw, 29, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in San Diego, California

Elizabeth Ann Shaw, 29, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in San Diego, California

Skincare routine: “I'm the discount queen who loves a good deal. I'm not extremely brand loyal to a particular skin care brand, but lately I’ve been purchasing Aveeno because they've been on sale at Costco and (shameless tidbit) I'm a big Jennifer Aniston fan. I typically wash my face with a soap-based cleanser when I shower — sometimes twice a day if I workout in the morning, too — and apply an SPF-based lotion in the morning and night. I also make sure to wear a hat if I'm going to be in the sun for a while. I'd say the number one reason my skin is in tip-top shape is related to my diet. I eat a predominantly plant-based diet because I actually love the taste of nature's candy. It's not to say I don't love sweets too, but the nutrient density of my diet plays a huge role in how I feel about my skin.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I've never been too concerned about my face. I struggle more with weight fluctuations due to infertility treatments.”

Open to it in the future? “I can’t say I’d never consider it because I've had friends who've done it and it makes them feel better. If a pal feels better after a round of Botox, who am I to judge? It's her life and as I like to say, you do you.”

Amelia Brantley, 30, Actor and Writer in Los Angeles, California

Amelia Brantley, 30, Actor and Writer in Los Angeles, California

Skincare routine: “From a very young age my grandma always told me to drink lots of water and wash my face to keep my skin healthy, which I'm so grateful for because now I have OCD-like discipline when it comes to washing my face every morning and night! I use Rodan + Fields Redefine Regimen ($200 — don't roll your eyes, the stuff REALLY works), and add in the RF Active Hydration Serum ($108) at night to give my skin a healthy, youthful glow that lasts through the next day. I only wear makeup for auditions and on set, and go makeup-free on my days off, which I actually prefer. I love the way my skin looks without makeup!”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I just don't need it. The products I use are anti-aging and keep me wrinkle-free. I'm still going out for young/mid-twenties roles, which made turning 30 kind of awesome.”

Open to it in the future? “I don't think so. I see my mom, grandma, and the other women in my family who are older and they all are beautiful. I think wrinkles and lines that come with age are honest and beautiful and I'm ready to embrace that when it happens.”

Courtney Richardson, 31, Founder and CEO of Do It for the Brand in New York, New York

Courtney Richardson, 31, Founder and CEO of Do It for the Brand in New York, New York

Skincare routine: “I take a daily multi-vitamin, drink water 24/7, exfoliate twice weekly, and always wear sunscreen. Yes, sunscreen! Although I'm a woman of color, there's this urban myth that we don't need it. The fact is that we do, so I make sure to apply it under my makeup no matter the season. Plus, add all of the above with the love of laughing and a sense of humor, and it makes for the perfect recipe to keeping my skin happy.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I love embracing my natural beauty, from the tiny curves where my smile meets the corners of my lips to my complexion and everything in between. Plus, my skincare routine is much more affordable than getting Botox!”

Open to it in the future? I'm proud to say I've never had Botox and don't plan on it in the future. Don't get me wrong, procedures of any kind are fair game to anyone who wants or feels the need to have them done. But my skin has a lot more years to live and enjoy life, so I'm remaining Botox-free for now!”

Kristina Maury, 32, Digital Marketing Specialist in Los Angeles, California

Kristina Maury, 32, Digital Marketing Specialist in Los Angeles, California

Skincare routine: “In my early twenties, I read somewhere that sun exposure is the cause of 90 percent of visible aging. I freaked out and have been using sunscreen religiously ever since. A lot of African Americans don't use sunscreen. While it's true our that skin ages more slowly, and has some built-in protection (Thanks, melanin!), I figure it can't hurt to take extra precautions. I also do lactic acid peels a few times a month, especially right before I go on a date or to a special event. That makes your skin glow and look flawless. I'm not picky about face wash or moisturizer — I either buy what's on sale or use samples I get in my monthly beauty box subscription. One of my friends recently introduced me to Bio-Oil ($12), and now I pat a little into my skin before bed. It smells so good!”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I don't need it. I don't have any wrinkles and my mother looks like she's in her thirties. Also, the thought of a needle injecting something into my face is terrifying.”

Open to it in the future? “I don't think I’ll get Botox, but you'd have to ask me again in 10 years. Never say never!”

Nicole Brodie, 34, Fitness and Wellness Expert in Tel Aviv, Israel

Nicole Brodie, 34, Fitness and Wellness Expert in Tel Aviv, Israel

Skincare routine: “I never go to the beach without a hat and SPF 50+ on my face. I also eat a healthy diet, loading up on vital greens and healthy fats, and drink plenty of water, especially first thing in the morning. Fitness is a big part of my life. Getting those endorphins has a ripple effect on my skin. I take supplements: evening primrose oil and omega 3. That has really improved my skin, especially after years of acne. My skin is fairly sensitive, and I’ve found that a lot of products aggravate my skin. I do love rosehip spray — it’s super refreshing and hydrating. I have eye serums and creams, masks and moisturizers, but I only use natural products. With my busy schedule, I must confess that my skin routine is definitely inconsistent.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I’ve never felt I needed it and I would prefer to spend that money at a health food shop. I do my best to stay in a preventative frame of mind rather than wait for a solution. By all means, I think anyone who gets botox should not feel bad about it. We all need to do what makes us feel our best and confident in our own skin.”

Open to it in the future? “If at some point in my life I feel that my body doesn't reflect my mind and I can make some tweaks, I would consider it.”

Charell Star, 37, Blogger and Broadcast Journalist in New York, New York

Charell Star, 37, Blogger and Broadcast Journalist in New York, New York

Skincare routine: “SPF is my best friend. I also keep my skin moisturized, stay hydrated, and wash my face with Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Acne Wash ($7) morning and night. Farmacy Green Screen ($36) is my moisturizer of choice and it has SPF 30. I suffer from hyperpigmentation, so I also get a chemical peel with my dermatologist every year to improve acne discoloration.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I don't feel like I need it. I already look much younger than my age. No woman should ever feel like she has to opt for a beauty enhancement. We put too much pressure on ourselves when it comes to beauty. That being said, if it makes you feel more confident and doesn't break the bank, do you.”

Open to it in the future? “I'm not looking to try Botox anytime soon, but wouldn't swear it off.”

Ayana King, 38, Communications Manager in Wyandotte, Michigan

Ayana King, 38, Communications Manager in Wyandotte, Michigan

Skincare routine: “I wash my face with a mild soap in the morning and at night. I moisturize with Dolled Up's Vitamin C Beauty Oil ($12). I drink at least 64 ounces of water a day, use breathable makeup, and take a multivitamin and vitamin D supplement daily.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “My skin is pretty smooth and wrinkle-free. I've just never felt the need to have it rejuvenated.”

Open to it in the future? “I wouldn't discourage anyone from getting Botox if they feel it would enhance their beauty. But for me, I think aging is a natural process that should be embraced. I work in senior living, so I see women in later life, loving, and appreciating the skin they're in. It's encouraging. I think adopting their attitude early on has given me a positive outlook on aging — wrinkles, gray hair, and all!”

Sophia V. Antoine, 38, Certified Life and Relationship Coach in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Sophia V. Antoine, 38, Certified Life and Relationship Coach in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Skincare routine: “I deep clean my once a week with tea tree oil and black seed oil. On the other days, I just use water. I drink a gallon of lemon water five to six days a week and very little juice or soda.

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I want to show my daughter how to embrace the aging process. I want to show her that it isn’t a bad thing and she doesn’t have to endanger her health to remain beautiful as she ages.”

Open to it in the future? “I remember when Botox became popular in the early 90s. I saw the women on the talk shows — they were horrific. I was put off and never wanted to try it. Even though I know that they were exaggerations, I still don’t care to try it.”

Nadia Jones, 40, Lawyer-Turned-Blogger and Marketing Executive in Jacksonville, Florida

Nadia Jones, 40, Lawyer-Turned-Blogger and Marketing Executive in Jacksonville, Florida

Skincare routine: “Hydration is key! When I was in high school, I read an article in a teen magazine about the importance of moisturizing to prevent wrinkles. I thought it was the easiest thing I could do to help my future self. Since then, I moisturize my face morning and night. I also try to keep my makeup light and try to go makeup free during weekend errands or at the gym. When I do wear makeup, I invest in higher quality brands for my foundation and powder.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I don't think enhancements like botox or plastic surgery is a bad thing, or detract from a woman's beauty; however, there’s nothing more beautiful to me than a woman confident in her natural skin. Also, I love aging and sharing my age. Most people believe experience and credibility comes with age. When I practiced law, I was often mistaken for the student intern. As the law professor, my students thought I was a classmate. Today, as I'm pitching new business to clients, speaking at events, or presenting to executives, I enjoy the look on peoples' faces when they realize that I’m not in my early twenties. In fact, I usually try to include some point of reference to my early career 15 years ago. The look on everyone's face is priceless and makes me chuckle!”

Open to it in the future? “Sure! The beauty of aging is that you earn the right to change your mind whenever you want. Let's see how the next decade treats me!”

Amanda Goldstein Marks, 40, Co-Producer and Host of Sis & Tell Podcast in Decatur, Georgia

Amanda Goldstein Marks, 40, Co-Producer and Host of Sis & Tell Podcast in Decatur, Georgia

Skincare routine: “There are times I wake up in the morning and it looks like I've perfected the smokey eye, when in reality, I've fallen asleep with my makeup on. I do have a skincare regimen, but don't always follow it because . . . life (and falling asleep while snuggling with one of my kids!). About 75 percent I wash my makeup off with Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes ($7), use the Clarisonic and a couple of pumps of Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash ($7) to wash my face, apply Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner ($8), and then Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Sensitive Skin Lotion with SPF 15 ($10). I apply Laneige Water Sleeping Mask ($25) weekly and will randomly use Retin-A on my forehead. I'm very expressive with my eyebrows, so my most obvious wrinkles are on my forehead. At the beach or pool, I always sit in the shade and wear sunscreen on my face along with an oversized sunhat I like to call my beach sombrero.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I’m afraid of needles and potential side effects. Plus, I'd rather spend my money elsewhere like on a really good date night with the husband, a bathing suit I feel great in, or 20 cases of LaCroix.”

Open to it in the future? “I’m open to having it in the future, but would want to do more research on potential side effects.”

Tara Nelson, 43, The Skincare CEO from Denver, Colorado

Tara Nelson, 43, The Skincare CEO from Denver, Colorado

Skincare routine: “I'm in a pretty hardcore love affair with Rodan + Fields. They have something for everyone. My go-to products are the Reverse Regimen ($219) and Active Hydration Serum ($108) in the morning and the Redefine Regimen ($200) with eye cream at night. Use premium skincare and stick to it. Consistency is key.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I've always been very natural and wear very minimal makeup. But when I turned 40, became suddenly divorced, and re-entered a dating world I didn't recognize, I won't say I didn't consider changing up some things. It was pretty terrifying. Thankfully, instead, I discovered and commenced the aforementioned love affair with Rodan + Fields. Also, I'm super scared of ending up on Botched or something. It's just not worth it when there are such life-changing products out there.”

Open to it in the future? “Nope. I don’t foresee any altering my face or body in any way except maybe firming up and becoming more flexible by starting a yoga practice — but I think I might like tacos too much!”

Christie Maruka, 47, Fashion Stylist and Wardrobe Consultant in Wall, New Jersey

Christie Maruka, 47, Fashion Stylist and Wardrobe Consultant in Wall, New Jersey

Skincare routine: “I’m pretty simple. I keep my skin hydrated by drinking lots of water and wash my face twice daily with Dove — I’ve used it all my life. After washing my face, I always apply a Vitamin A eye cream along with Chantecaille Bio Lifting Serum ($216), which I love! Pricey but worth it.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I don’t have a desire to take away my facial expressions. When I’m smiling I want you to know I’m happy. When I’m mad, I want you to know. Also, the idea that I’m injecting botulism into my face, even though you can't catch it that way, just doesn't sit well with me. I’ve seen friends and clients have bad reactions or allergies to it and it was not a pretty sight. I’m going to embrace my fine lines and future wrinkles with open arms and wear them proudly.”

Open to it in the future? “No. I simply plan on doing my best with applying sunscreen, drinking lots of water, moisturizing my face, getting the proper amount of sleep, and keeping things natural and simple.”

Cindy Mich, 48, Author and Journalist in New York, New York

Cindy Mich, 48, Author and Journalist in New York, New York

Skincare routine: “My skin is typically very dry. Over the last 10 years, I’ve typically utilized the following on my skin: a combination of handmade soap from various artisans, plus Suave. That’s it. No specialized creams or prescriptions.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I work in the entertainment field and have seen many friends get Botox in attempt to preserve their outer physical beauty. It saddens me to see so many women find themselves desperate to appear as if they’re not aging and using a course of cosmetic Botox as a fix all. Life finds us all aging and, one day, all dying. I know some women who’ve suffered negative consequences from Botox, such as droopy eyelids.

Open to it in the future? “No. I am who I am, flawed and all. These stretch marks, extra fat, and wrinkles are signs of life, love, sadness, sorrow, and birthing of live humans. These are things I can say I lived through and can tell the tale! I don’t want a doctor to alter or add to them.

Stephanie McDonald, 49, Talent Consultant and Business Owner in Charleston, South Carolina

Stephanie McDonald, 49, Talent Consultant and Business Owner in Charleston, South Carolina

Skincare routine: “I remove my makeup with coconut oil-based face wipes and then apply argan oil as my moisturizer instead of a commercial brand that may include alcohol as a drying agent. I have oily skin, so it seems counterintuitive to apply oil, however I find that my skin doesn’t produce as much oil when it’s kept very moisturized. I also live in a very humid climate most of the year, so having the oil in my pores before I apply my makeup keeps it from soaking in or sliding off in high temps.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I don’t like the way it looks. I’m all about smiling and don’t like when I see people whose muscles are frozen in place by toxins.”

Open to it in the future? “Only for medical purposes — never to reduce wrinkles.”

Stacey Mitchell, 52, Health and Wellness Coach in Downingtown, Pennsylvania

Stacey Mitchell, 52, Health and Wellness Coach in Downingtown, Pennsylvania

Skincare routine: “Exfoliation is key, whether wet or dry. I exfoliate with a small buff sponge that you get in the local discount store and use a moisturizer with an SPF. I also apply something around my eyes — it's my secret weapon to help alleviate fine lines and wrinkles in that area. It's my own blend of organic coconut oil, organic almond oil, and local beeswax that I make and put in a stick form. It's easy to apply from the stick and soothes this area well. I drink a ton of water, eat healthy foods, exercise, and don't drink or smoke. Sounds boring for some, but for me, it's a way of life that pays dividends!”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “ I’m happy with my fine lines and wrinkles. They’re a part of me and my life's challenges or happy times. Also, I'm afraid of putting that stuff in my face — yikes!”

Open to it in the future? “I'm not sure I’d ever feel comfortable getting Botox, but I may consider other options, like micro-dermabrasion or laser treatments.”

Liza Baker, 52, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Liza Baker, 52, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Skincare routine: “I apply fine grain apricot kernel scrub plus vegetable or goat milk-based soap in the morning, a gel cleanser in the evening, and moisturizer twice daily. I use cruelty-free, paraben-, SLS-, petroleum-, and phthalate-free products whenever I can. I don't necessarily adhere to a particular brand, but insist that the products be as organic, ethical (both in terms of human and animal rights), and plant-based as possible. I live in Michigan, so I rarely use sunscreen unless I know I'll be in direct sun for extended amounts of time — otherwise, I count it as Vitamin D. I never wear foundation, and rarely wear other makeup.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I've never thought it was necessary. Do I ever look in the mirror and think, ‘Who is that woman with gray hair and lines on her face?’ Yes. Do I ever think, ‘Wow, she looks awful?’ Nope. My hair went gray in my thirties and I've never had the money or time to spend coloring it — more importantly, I've never had the desire. I feel the same way about my skin and all the anti-aging treatments out there. To me, there's nothing wrong with looking your best as long as it's your best, and not based on what friends, ad agencies, and pharmaceutical and anti-aging industries tell you is beautiful. Beauty comes from within and exists in all ages and stages of our life.”

Open to it in the future? Absolutely not.

Susan Gold, 57, Consultant in Los Angeles, California

Susan Gold, 57, Consultant in Los Angeles, California

Skin care routine: "In the morning and every evening I use a spinner brush with cleanser, toner, Vitamin C and argan, oil, fade cream, and in the evening a retinol cream."

Why I've never had Botox: "I want to know the woman I will become as I age."

Open to it in the future? "No, absolutely not."

Leslie Levine, 58, Writer and Publicist in Northbrook, Illinois

Leslie Levine, 58, Writer and Publicist in Northbrook, Illinois

Skincare routine: “I use Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser ($10) in the morning and at night. I apply Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer ($8) in the a.m. before using Lancôme foundation ($47) with SPF. Also, at night, after cleansing, I use L'Occitane Ultra Rich L'Occitane Comforting Cream ($34).”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “The thought of someone putting needles in my face is terrifying. I had a horrible skin as a teenager. I mean horrible. I used every kind of cream and prayer to get rid of my acne. Throughout my twenties, I thought I’d never have good skin, so now that it’s pretty good I'm so grateful. Also, philosophically, I just feel like I've earned my wrinkles and would rather use that money to buy more lipstick and get more pedicures.”

Open to it in the future? “I guess I'm open to it, but have no plans to use it. I have only admiration for people who do get Botox.”

Rhonda Rees, 58, President of a Public Relations Company in Agoura Hills, California

Rhonda Rees, 58, President of a Public Relations Company in Agoura Hills, California

Skincare routine: “I’ve had regular monthly facials for the last 30 years. My go-to esthetician is the best in the business and handles A-list celebrities and other clients. She has a fabulous skin care product line that I use religiously and I follow her recommendations to the letter. In addition, I eat a healthy, high-antioxidant diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and try to drink plenty of water. I’ve never smoked and don't drink or take drugs.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I don't feel I need it and I'm concerned that people who do so are injecting themselves with poison.”

Open to it in the future? “No.”

Anne P. Mitchell, 59, Attorney in Boulder, Colorado

Anne P. Mitchell, 59, Attorney in Boulder, Colorado

Skincare routine: “I'm very careful about what I put in, and on, my body. I believe beauty starts on the inside, and my skin seems to agree. I'm a strict vegetarian, don't smoke or drink, and have never been a sun worshipper. I also only use cruelty-free, vegetarian or vegan, and ideally organic products on my face. I stay hydrated, don't use harsh cleansers on my face, and wear very little makeup. If I’m not wearing makeup, I simply cleanse with water, using a washcloth for gentle exfoliation, and finish with a moisturizer. This has kept people guessing my true age for years (they are always shocked when I tell them how old my kids are). While water alone has been my friend for years, my current skin care regimen follows the 10-step Korean method.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “Putting toxins in your body in order to look better? Never! Plus, you can almost always tell when someone has had Botox.”

Open to it in the future? “Absolutely not!”

Lorraine Miano, 59, Certified Integrative Health Coach in Wake Forest, North Carolina

Lorraine Miano, 59, Certified Integrative Health Coach in Wake Forest, North Carolina

Skincare routine: “My skin regimen includes eliminating processed foods from my diet and incorporating more organic fruits and veggies. I limit alcohol to the weekends and drink mainly filtered water. Eating this way also helps balance my hormones, which is important for perimenopausal and menopausal women. As far as what I put on my skin, I use a high-quality organic sunscreen when going to the beach and stay mostly under an umbrella. My daily routine is to wash my face in the morning and evening with a organic cream cleanser followed by a toner, vitamin infused serum, moisturizer, and eye cream. I'll use a scrub or mask once or twice a week and a pumpkin enzyme peel once or twice a month. All of my makeup is organic and free of toxins.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I’ve been concerned with side effects and the potential to have an expressionless look. As a health coach, I'm constantly looking at limiting the toxins we’re exposed to in our environment. Why would I want to inject myself with more?

Open to it in the future? “At this point in time, I don't see myself having Botox treatments. I'll continue with my healthy lifestyle habits and spend those dollars on better quality nutrient dense foods.”

Vicki Lindgren Rimasse, 62, Communications Specialist in North Arlington, New Jersey

Vicki Lindgren Rimasse, 62, Communications Specialist in North Arlington, New Jersey

Skincare routine: “I drink a lot of water — at least 10 glasses a day, without fail. In lieu of heavy foundations, I use tinted moisturizer. I always put sunscreen on when sitting in the sun.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “Simply put: it looks fake. Although my face is far from perfect, and there are things I wish I could change, I don’t want to look plastic.”

Open to it in the future? “If the method is perfected when I’m a little older, then perhaps. But I want my face to move when I laugh.”

Cynthia MacGregor, 73, Freelance Writer and Author in Palm Springs, Florida

Cynthia MacGregor, 73, Freelance Writer and Author in Palm Springs, Florida

Skincare routine: “I wash my face once a day, but otherwise I leave it the hell alone. I also believe cigarette smoking is detrimental to having good skin, and have never had a cigarette in my life.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I don't feel I need it. I have minimal wrinkles and feel that, at my age, I'm entitled to the few small wrinkles I have. I’ve inherited good skin. My mother never had anything done either except for a lift to drooping eyelids that were impinging her vision. I do have some physical issues, though they’re not age-related, but despite them, I feel great. I’m one of the happiest people you’ll ever meet. As I frequently say, there’s no one in the world I’d want to trade lives with.”

Open to it in the future? “Undecided.”

Gayle Carson, 79, Talk Show Host, Author and Speaker in Miami, Florida

Gayle Carson, 79, Talk Show Host, Author and Speaker in Miami, Florida

Skincare routine: “In the morning, I wash my face with a creamy cleanser and add moisturizer when I go to the gym. When I get back and shower, I wash it again, do a treatment with a skin stimulator, add a serum, moisturizer, and then my makeup. At night, I take off my makeup with a foam cleanser and washcloth followed by a grainy substance and a brush. Then I add serum, night cream, and that's it. Yes, it takes time, but, hey, my look is important in my line of work.”

Why I’ve never had Botox: “I’ve had lots of surgeries (16, to be exact) and am a three-time breast cancer champion, so just didn't want any more poking and prodding.”

Open to it in the future? “If I knew it would make a big difference and could afford everything it took, maybe, but it would have to be proven to me. And, think about it, I’ll be 80 in six months so . . . do I really want to start now?”