Forehead wrinkles, as well as facial lines of other types, are a part of the intrinsic aging process and are largely determined by your genetics, states the American Academy of Dermatology. However, extrinsic factors such as sun exposure, smoking and even the way you sleep can also play a part in the development of forehead wrinkles.
Heredity and the Aging Process
The intrinsic aging process can begin as early as your mid-20s. The skin produces less collagen and elastin, which give the skin its elasticity and springiness. The result? Fine wrinkles and lines--along with skin that is dryer, thinner and more transparent. Some people notice signs of aging in their 20s, while others don't notice skin changes until they're in their 40s.
Photoaging
If forehead wrinkles seem to occur before their time, exposure to ultraviolet radiation may be the culprit, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sun exposure hastens the intrinsic aging process, breaking down the collagen and elastin fibers deep in the dermis. Photoaging is irreversible and usually takes place over a long period of time. Those with fair skin with a history of exposure to the sun show more signs of photoaging than darker-skinned individuals, in which case it may be limited to a few fine lines and an uneven complexion.
Facial Expressions
If you've been relying on facial exercises to avoid forehead wrinkles, now's the time to stop, because these actually increase wrinkles. Facial muscles are employed to form our expressions, which is why a series of lines and grooves appear on our face with every smile, frown or scowl. As skin begins to lose its elasticity, the grooves that are formed during expressions become permanent wrinkles and lines instead.
Sleeping Positions
Pressing your face against the same part of the pillow or mattress can also cause wrinkles over a period of time. Men are more likely to get forehead wrinkles from sleeping face down on the pillow (women tend to sleep on their sides and see sleep lines on their cheeks and chin instead). But people who sleep on their backs and don't make facial contact with a pillow don't develop these types of wrinkles.
Smoking
Smoking causes changes to occur in the body that speed up the aging process. The AAD cites research that indicates that those who smoke 10 cigarettes daily for 10 years are more likely to develop wrinkles and leathery skin.
Avoid Forehead Wrinkles
While there's nothing to halt the aging process completely, there are simple methods to avoid premature forehead wrinkles. The AAD advises eschewing facial exercises, stopping smoking and exercising appropriate protection against the sun, which includes foregoing tanning, applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and staying out of the sun when rays are the strongest--from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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