Wrinkles (Rhytides)

Article from the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery 

As skin ages, it changes. With time, skin develops wrinkles, lines and furrows. How these changes impact an individual depends on his or her inherited tendency (genes) and their exposure to environmental factors.  It is important to remember that inherited skin qualities can be treated, and much of the exposure to environmental facors can be prevented.

Fine lines

Fine lines and wrinkles arise because of irregular thickening of the dermis and because of a decrease in the amount of water held by the epidermis. This is mainly caused by exposure to the UV radiation of sunlight and exposure to damaging chemicals, such as from smoking cigarettes.

Furrows

Deeper lines or furrows are described as either “dynamic” when they appear as different muscles move, or “static” if they remain unchanged with muscle movement. Eventually, dynamic lines become static furrows. Some furrows are so common that they have been given their own namees: 

 •“Crow's feet” appear around the eyes. These are due to smiling and activity of the eyelid muscles.

•“Worry lines” appear on the forehead. These are due to contraction of muscle used when raising the eyebrows

•“Frown lines” appear between the eyebrows are due to contraction of muscles when concentrating or angry.

•“Smile lines” frame the lips. These are due to the contraction of muscle due to smiling.

Treatment Options

There are a variety of cosmetic products, medications and procedures that can lead to younger looking skin. These are often combined for best results. 

•Physician grade clinical skin care

  & Topical Retinoids (Retin A, Renova)

•Chemical Peels

•Laser skin rejuvenation

•Laser resurfacing

•Botulinum Toxin (Botox)

•Dermal Fillers (Resytlane, Sculptra, Radiesse, Evolence)

 Wrinkle Prevention

The most important step you can take to avoid the premature development of wrinkles is the regular use of a sunscreen SPF 35+ that contains anti oxidants, and diligent practice sun protection habits.

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 Images courtesy of Gerald Goldberg, M.D.

 © 2010 Vivacare.   Last updated April 18th  2010.