What are they?
Wrinkles are creases, lines or folds that form on the skin due to the natural aging process or exposure to external factors such as sun damage, smoking, pollution and poor nutrition.
How are they formed?
Wrinkles are a result of the gradual breakdown of collagen and elastin fibbers in the skin which are responsible for giving the skin its elasticity and firmness. As the skin loses its elasticity, it becomes less able to bounce back into shape after being stretched, leading to the formation of wrinkles.
Furthermore, as we age, our skin produces less oil and becomes drier, which can also contribute to the formation of wrinkles.
Can you avoid them?
To prevent the formation of wrinkles you can practice the following methods:
Protect your skin from the sun: always use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever you are outside.
Keep your skin hydrated: Moisturize your skin regularly to help maintain its elasticity.
Avoid smoking: Smoking causes premature aging and decreases blood circulation in your skin layers, which can lead to wrinkles. Also, important to note is second-hand smoking has the same effects on the skin.
Eat a healthy diet: Consume a diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Avoid repetitive facial expressions: Over time, repetitive facial expressions, such as squinting or frowning, can lead to the formation of wrinkles. These more difficult to avoid.
Practice good skincare habits: Always remove makeup at night, use gentle products that do not irritate your skin, exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells, and moisturize daily.
Can we treat Wrinkles?
There are several treatments available for wrinkles, including:
Topical treatments – Over-the-counter creams and prescription medications containing retinoids, antioxidants, and alpha hydroxy acids can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Botox/ Botulinum toxin injections – A Botulinum toxin is a chemical that is used limit movements of muscles. Botox injections can temporarily relax the muscles that cause wrinkles, such as crow’s feet and frown lines. They may be used beyond the face to treat other medical conditions such as over-sweating, muscle spasms, over-active bladder etc.
Dermal fillers – Dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid and collagen, can help to plump up wrinkles and restore volume to the face.
Chemical peels – Chemical peels use acid solutions to exfoliate the outer layer of skin and reveal smoother, younger-looking skin underneath. They may also promote natural production of collagen by the skin.
Microdermabrasion – Microdermabrasion uses a wand-like device to exfoliate the skin and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Laser therapy – Laser therapy can help to stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Different types of lasers can be used for different types of wrinkles.
Consult with your Aesthetic doctor or Dermatologist to explore these options for your skin.
VITO Med & Aesthetics
Dr Precious Garnett
