It is natural for the skin to develop some wrinkling as a person ages. However, as Westside Aesthetics notes, the development of wrinkling around and under the eyes can be caused by repeated facial expressions and damage caused by sun exposure.
No one treatment is optimal for all types of fine lines and wrinkles. Indeed, if you have wrinkles under and around the eyes which are bothering you, you may want to consider several treatments.
Around Eyes
Wrinkles around the eyes, or crow's feet, can occur and deepen due to sun damage but they are largely the result of repeated facial expressions. For these wrinkles, Botox injections can be used. The botulinum toxin, which is injected into the wrinkle site, puts the nerve into a state of paralysis. The nerve will no longer crease the skin and the deep wrinkle will be reduced.
Under Eyes
According to WestsideAesthetics, Botox injections are not suitable for the delicate under eye area. The wrinkles in these areas are finer and occur because of sun damage. Resurfacing via laser treatment is therefore an optimal method. MayoClinic.com notes that the laser removes the surface epidermal layers of skin, thereby wounding the skin, and thus encourages collagen production at the site to create new, less-wrinkled skin.
Topical
Topical retinoid creams are available on prescription. These creams, derived from vitamin A, can be used for finer lines and pigmentation caused by sun damage, notes MayoClinic.com, but they will likely fall short as an effective treatment for deep wrinkles. These creams can also increase sun sensitivity and so it is important to wear sun block when applying. MayoClinic.com says over-the-counter wrinkle creams may have little to no effect.
Alternatives
If you have deep wrinkles that you find bothersome, consult your dermatologist about possible clinical treatments. According to MayoClinic.com, chemical acid peels and dermabrasion, which is skin erosion via a wire brush, remove the epidermal layers much like laser treatment does, and as a result, they promote new skin production. Soft tissue fillers are another temporary option while for the most advanced of cases, face-lift surgery might be appropriate.
Considerations
Using home treatment methods such as over-the-counter acid peels, natural remedies or cosmetic products are likely to be ineffective for deep wrinkle treatment. Results for Botox last several months before the paralysis wears off. Side effects are rare, but it can cause breathing and vision problems in the most severe cases. Laser treatment can result in swelling, bleeding and reddish sore skin. Results vary and nothing can ultimately stop the aging process.
Member Comments