[Accidentally deleted] From a "Butter Face" to an 8: My Hardmaxxing and Softmaxxing Journey

(Reposting because I think a lot of people were interested but I accidentally deleted the OG post whilst replying to someone. Thankfully I wrote it in my notes app before!)

Over the last few years, I’ve made a HUGE transformation in my appearance. Growing up, I often felt like a “butter face” (everything looks good but-her-face). My face was average at best, but I’ve made some major changes and am now in the “refinement stage.” I’m sharing my journey to help others and to seek advice on my final tweaks. Over the last couple of years, people have been so much kinder to me, strangers have come up to me to call me beautiful, and people stare at me in public. I do think I have a certain air of confidence now which adds to my physical attractiveness but still, it's crazy to me to be treated like this. The little girl in me who just wanted to feel pretty would be so happy if she saw me today.

Lets begin!

Hardmaxxing

  • Rhinoplasty + Revision Rhinoplasty: In 2020, I had my first nose job, but it didn’t go well. The following year, I underwent a revision, and now my nose looks exactly how I wanted it. What I’ve learnt in my experience, is sometimes the more expensive doctor will not have the best results and doing your research on your plastic surgeon is SO important. Do with that what you will.
  • Buccal Fat Removal: I had this done nearly 3 years ago now. I’ve always had a bottom-heavy face, regardless of my weight, and my family retains facial fat with age. The procedure was minimal in downtime, and I love my new face shape.
  • Orthodontic Treatment: This made the biggest impact on my face and confidence. I had four premolars extracted to treat a mandibular protrusion which made my upper teeth look oversized, my chin look small, and my cheekbones flat. Although wearing braces for two years was annoying, the results were so worth it. Concerns about tongue space or fewer teeth showing when I smile have not been an issue for me whatsoever.

Softmaxxing

Acne Treatment:
I’ve struggled with acne for years. Accutane worked while I was on it, but the acne returned each time, albeit milder. A dermatologist recommended PanOxyl face wash (leave on for a minute before washing) and applying Benzac at night, which cleared my skin in just two weeks. I’ve tried everything from drugstore to luxury skincare, but this combo has been a game-changer.

Lip & Chin Filler:
I added 1ML of filler to my lips for volume and to my chin to balance its slight recession. I’m happy with the fillers for now but might consider a chin implant in the future.

Eyebrows:
Getting my eyebrows professionally threaded has been transformative. My brow technician has worked magic, and I can’t imagine going back to DIY.

Laser Hair Removal:
Absolutely worth it. I no longer need wax appointments, and ingrown hairs/bumps are a thing of the past. I’ve been using glycolic acid on old ingrown spots, which works wonders.

Hair Care:
To improve my hair’s thickness and health, I’ve been using henna powder (non-dye kind), cedar powder, mixed herbs, and oils for weekly DIY masks. Since January, I’ve noticed significant growth and thickness.

Gummy Smile:
I used to get Botox for my gummy smile, but after completing my orthodontic work, I don’t need it anymore.

Currently Working On

Lash Lifts:
I’m experimenting with lash lifts (LVL) and extensions. My natural lashes are long but flat but LVL doesn’t last as long as I would like. And I dislike how OTT extensions look when I’m not wearing makeup.

Acne Scars:
Planning on getting a chemical peel in the winter for hyperpigmentation. For now, I’m using glycolic acid.

Softlight Laser:
I currently shave my face to remove peach fuzz and wax my upper lip, but I’m planning to start soft light laser this winter.

Hair Frizz:
My natural hair is frizzy and wavy, and I live in a humid climate. I usually get blowouts to manage it, but I’m looking for a keratin alternative that will tame the frizz without making my hair permanently straight. I like volume and for my hair to have some life so chemically straightening it is not what I’m looking for. Any recommendations?

Body:

I’m happy with my body, I’m naturally blessed with curves (God bless those North African genetics), but I work out consistently to stay fit, active, healthy and toned. I put it in this category because I believe fitness is something you have to continuously work on throughout your life, even after reaching your goal weight/getting your goal body.

In conclusion, I’ve gone from a solid 6 to an 8, and I’m aiming for a 9 with these final tweaks. I hope my journey helps anyone looking to make similar changes, and I’d love any tips or advice for my next steps! Feel free to ask any questions I’m more than happy to answer and if anyone has any recommendations for hair treatments to reduce frizz please share them!