What Are Wrinkles?

When people are younger, they often take their smooth and line-free skin for granted. But, as they enter their late 20’s and early 30’s, many women and men begin to notice wrinkles forming across their forehead, in between their brows, and at the outer corners of their eyes.

While acknowledging that these lines are a sign of aging, many individuals may wonder: What are wrinkles?

Continue reading to learn all about wrinkles, include the types, causes, and best treatment options.

What Are Wrinkles?

Wrinkles are lines, ridges, and creases that develop in the skin due to the natural aging process or other environmental factors. They can present as fine lines or deeper, more pronounced etchings.

What Are the Two Types of Wrinkles?

When asking, “What are wrinkles?” individuals may be unaware that there are two types – dynamic and static.

Dynamic wrinkles are lines that result from facial expressions. Each time underlying facial muscles contract to smile, frown, squint, or express surprise, they wrinkle the skin above. When we are younger, skin is more flexible and quickly returns to a smooth and supple state.

However, as we get older, collagen and elastin levels decline, and skin is more susceptible to static wrinkles. Static lines are deeper facial grooves that are present even when the face is at rest.

What Causes Wrinkles?

There are a number of factors that can lead to the formation of wrinkles. To start, the natural aging process, including loss of collagen, elastin, fat, and hyaluronic acid, all play a significant role. As these essential components decrease, they reduce skin’s protective barrier and result in increased photo damage.

Additionally, environmental agents can wreak havoc on skin and accelerate the aging process. They can include exposure to harmful UV rays through tanning beds, sunbathing, and outdoor sports and activities.

Smoking is another behavior that can cause women and men to develop them earlier in life, as it leads to reduced blood supply to the skin.

Alcohol is also a common culprit because it dehydrates the skin, making it more likely to crease and form lines.

Wrinkle Treatment Options

Fortunately, patients have a wide range of treatments to choose from, including retinoids, dermabrasion, laser and energy-based procedures, Botox, chemicals peels, dermal fillers, and surgical intervention.

Learn More About Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

If you would like to learn more about wrinkles and how you can counteract the aging process, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our highly skilled and experienced providers.