Wrinkles (Rthytides)
Youthful skin is full of healthy collagen and elastin fibers which act like āspring coilsā in the skin. The effects of aging and sun exposure cause a loss in the measure and function of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. With a reduced ārecoilingā ability, facial expressions such as laughing cause the skin to fold up and form wrinkles (dynamic lines). Upon repetition, these wrinkles become āetchedā onto the skin to form permanent lines, like those commonly found on the forehead and around the eyes and mouth.
The term ādry linesā is a bit of a misnomer. Early wrinkles can be improved temporarily by using a heavier moisturizer, as surface skin cells are plumped up making fine lines less apparent. However, it remains the loss of collagen and elastin fibers which cause these lines, and not dryness. Heavy moisturizers may clog up pores in susceptible skin. Emollients dubbed āCollagen creamsā may act as good moisturizers but cannot actually increase the true collagen content inside the skin.
Wrinkles: Treatment and Prevention
Treatment can be grouped under the following three approaches. Your doctor will work with you to design a treatment plan that suits your personal condition and needs:
1. Stimulate Collagen and elastin fiber production in the skin through:
AHA Treatments
Laser Facial
Thermage
Fraxel
2. Relax the muscles causing undesirable wrinkles, such as frown lines between the eyebrows, lines around the eyes, forehead lines and dimply chins, through the use of Botox.
3. Fill up resting lines, such as those on the forehead and around the mouth, with dermal fillers.
To delay the onset of wrinkles, following a healthy lifestyle, avoiding UV rays and adhering to a āsmartā skincare regimen are all recommended. To prevent frown lines from setting in, try to avoid unnecessary frowning, as the more you allow the frown muscles to work the stronger they become. Wear sunglasses and make sure you donāt squint / frown when you are reading, working on a computer or working on your blackberry!