As you age, your skin loses elasticity and sun damage becomes more evident. According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated, wrinkles can be classified into four groups: mild, moderate, advanced and severe. Mild and moderate wrinkles can often be treated at home using nonprescription wrinkle creams or topical retinoids such as tretinoin. Deeper wrinkles will require more aggressive medical help.
Step 1
Talk to your doctor about dermabrasion and chemical peels. These procedures get rid of the upper layer of the skin and the wrinkles and discoloration present there. As new skin grows, it's usually pink and softer and without the wrinkles.
Ask your doctor about the dangers and benefits of the different types of chemical peels. For deep wrinkles, you will probably need a phenol peel. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, phenol can treat coarse facial wrinkles, but requires a longer recovery period.
Step 2
Look into injectables. Botox might help with wrinkles near the forehead, mouth or eyes, especially if you're just looking to smooth the area rather than make the wrinkles disappear completely. For wrinkles on other areas, such as around the lips, fillers might be more effective. Ask your doctor for a filler if you want to completely smooth out deep furrows. Both injectables can cause redness in the area and some swelling.
Step 3
Consult with a plastic surgeon about a face lift. According to MayoClinic.com, a face lift is more common in people over 40 and can be subtle or dramatic, depending on the condition of your skin and the amount and depth of your wrinkles. Face lifts are appropriate for deep creases near the mouth and nose, but will not take care of forehead or eye wrinkles. If you have deep wrinkles on those areas, talk to your doctor about eyelid surgery or a forehead lift.
Step 4
Ask your doctor about laser resurfacing. While laser is mostly used to soften wrinkles and enhance the production of collagen, the University of Maryland Medical Center says it can also be used for deep wrinkles around the mouth. Laser works best when it's used to treat deep lines on specific places rather than over your whole face.
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