Although the general onset of wrinkles is a natural part of the aging process as is thinning and drying of the skin, lifestyle and environment also have a big role to play. Medical News Today notes that heavy drinking, smoking and excessive ultraviolet ray exposure can all cause premature wrinkling. Effective treatments exist which can help reduce the appearance of various types of wrinkles.
Injections
Botox is a toxin which paralyzes the muscles in the wrinkled area. The Mayo Clinic explains that botox flattens wrinkles by blocking the chemical signals from reaching the muscles. It is suitable for use on crow's feet, frown and forehead lines.
Soft-tissue fillers plump out the wrinkles by injecting fat or collagen directly into the crevice. They are often used for marionette lines going from the nose to the mouth.
Wounding
The Mayo Clinic notes how chemical peels, heated lasers and dermabrasion---a process using an abrasive wire brush---all use techniques which wound the skin by removing the top layer of skin cells called the epidermis. Removing this layer shocks the body into recovery and producing more collagen to create new, less wrinkled skin. The removal of this layer also reduces the superficial depth of the fine lines and wrinkles.
Effects
The positive effects of both botox and soft-tissue fillers last only a few months. Side effects to the injections can be redness, swelling and bruising. More serious side effects of botox---although rare---are breathing problems, vision impairment and seizures, notes the Mayo Clinic. Heated lasers and chemical peels can cause redness, irritation and bleeding which lasts several days. A pinkish complexion can last for months in the case of dermabrasion.
Anti-Wrinkle Creams
The Mayo Clinic is dismissive of the effects of non-prescription anti-wrinkle creams like those sold by cosmetics companies. They are not regulated and tested by the Food and Drug Association and so do not need proof to back up their claims.
Topical retinoid creams available by prescription may have a positive effect on fine lines, concedes The Mayo Clinic . Look for tretinoin, sold as Renova or Retin-A, and tazarotene, sold as Avage or Tazorac.
Considerations
Face-lift surgery may be the best option for the more severe cases of wrinkling. The surgery involves the removal of skin and tissues from the lower face and jaw line and stretching the remainder in order to tighten skin and muscle, notes The Mayo Clinic.
Try to prevent wrinkle development by wearing sunscreens or moisturizers with SPF protection daily. If you have wrinkles which you find bothersome, consult your doctor to help decide the best treatment for your case.
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