Wrinkles are a normal part of aging as the skin becomes drier, thinner and less elastic over time. UV exposure, smoking and repeated facial movements such as smiling and squinting can all contribute to early or deep wrinkling. A history of skin disorders or poor nutrition can also cause premature aging, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Treatment depends on the severity of your wrinkles, their location and your personal preference.
Topical Medications and Creams
Over-the-counter wrinkle creams containing retinol, coenzyme Q10, antioxidants, alpha hydroxy acids or kinetin might improve the appearance of wrinkles slightly when used over long periods. However, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate these products, which means there is no guarantee of their effectiveness. Topical retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A, can reduce fine lines and shallow wrinkles when used daily over long periods. These medications are available by prescription and can cause sun sensitivity, redness, dryness, burning and itching.
Skin Resurfacing Procedures
Dermabrasion uses a rotating brush to sand away the top layer of skin to minimize wrinkles and allow new skin to grow. Microdermabrasion, which is similar to dermabrasion but produces more subtle results, uses aluminum oxide crystals and a vacuum suction device to sandblast the skin's top layer. Chemical peels work by burning away the top layer of skin using an acid. Different strength peels are available for different degrees of wrinkling, and side effects depend on the strength and location of the peel.
Laser skin resurfacing uses a beam of heated light to destroy the skin's epidermis, or outer layer. This type of procedure also heats the layer of skin below the epidermis, called the dermis, thereby stimulating the growth of collagen fibers to actually improve the firmness of the skin. Recovery from laser resurfacing can take several months.
Filler Injections and Botox
Injections with collagen, fat or hyaluronic acid are effective at filling in wrinkles to improve appearance. Injectable fillers typically work best on deep wrinkles and might require follow-up treatment every few months to maintain results. Temporary redness, bruising and swelling near the injection site are common side effects of the procedure, according to the Mayo Clinic website.
Injecting botulinum toxin type A, or Botox, into specific muscles under the skin blocks the signals that tells muscles to contract, thereby tightening the skin and giving it a smoother and less wrinkled appearance. Botox injections work best on wrinkles between the eyebrows and on the forehead, and the procedure offers the added benefit of preventing new wrinkles from forming during the time your muscles are immobilized, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. You must repeat botox injections every few months.
Surgery
If other wrinkle treatment options have failed to improve your appearance, your doctor might recommend a facelift. This surgical procedure removes excess fat and skin from the neck and lower face and tightens connective tissue and muscle to smooth out your skin and get rid of wrinkles. Results generally last up to 10 years, but recovery can take many weeks, according to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery. Moreover, like all surgery, a facelift poses some potentially serious risks, including scarring, infection, skin loss, numbness, skin discoloration and blood clots.
References
- MayoClinic: Wrinkles
- American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Understanding Various Treatments of Facial Wrinkles
- MayoClinic: Wrinkle Creams: Your Guide to Younger Looking Skin
- American Academy of Dermatology: Wrinkles
- Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery: Facelift Surgery - It's Back (and Better than Ever!)
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