Facial lines are simply a form of wrinkles, which are a product of aging, according to the National Institutes of Health. A combination of factors plays a role in their development. From thinning skin and sun exposure to heredity and lifestyle, they can all have an effect on the appearance of your skin. However, there are things that you can do to reduce facial lines, especially when they first start to develop.
Step 1
Apply a wrinkle cream each day. Though not all wrinkle creams are effective, those containing alpha hydroxy, copper peptides, retinol, kinetin and coenzyme Q10 can make a slight improvement in the appearance of facial lines, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor about a prescription-strength retinoid. Higher concentrations of retinoid, such as tretinoin, tazarotene or acitretin, have been proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the production of collagen. Daily use is necessary for best results.
Step 3
Use soft tissue fillers. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends this form of treatment for lines due to facial movements. Collagen, fat and hyaluronic acid are three of the most common types of fillers used today. Results are temporary, lasting upward of six months. Additional fillers are necessary to maintain the appearance of the skin.
Step 4
Try Botox. Injected along facial lines, Botox prevents the muscles from contracting, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, according to both the Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Dermatology. Much like soft tissue fillers, the results are temporary, lasting anywhere from three to four months.
Step 5
Consider skin rejuvenation. Skin rejuvenation includes a number of different procedures, such as dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and laser resurfacing. Each has its own set of benefits, including new skin growth, collagen production and elastin production. All three factors can reduce the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles. Consult a dermatologist about which treatment is right for you.
Step 6
Have a face-lift. Though this may be somewhat extreme for facial lines, especially if they're relatively fine, a face-lift can smooth out the skin and remove the lines from the face.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear sunscreen. Sunscreens or moisturizers with sun protection factors may not reduce facial lines, but they can help to prevent lines or wrinkles from forming due to the sun, as indicated by the American Academy of Dermatology. Lotions with an SPF of 30 or greater are the best.
- Pregnant women should never use retinols. Consult with a doctor or dermatologist about other skin creams or medications for facial lines. Most skin rejuvenation procedures can cause skin irritation, discomfort, redness and scabbing. These are all temporary in nature.
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