WRINKLE MANAGEMENT
Wrinkles in our skin are unavoidable. While we cannot stop these wrinkles, we can take control of how quickly they progress and how prominent they become.
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What are wrinkles?
Wrinkles are folds or lines that form in your skin. Our constant movement in our faces, hands, and necks result in formation of wrinkles.
There are two types of wrinkles, dynamic and static wrinkles. Dynamic wrinklesform as a result of muscle movements. Static wrinkles are present even when you are not forming any facial expressions.
To learn about the common areas of wrinkles and what to call them, see our blog article: What To Call Those Wrinkles.
Why do wrinkles form?
There are three main reasons why our skin wrinkle.
Physiology of the Skin
As we age, our skin loses some of its elasticity and becomes thinner. We also lose moisture in our skin as we age. In addition, genetics can play an important role in how prone we are to developing wrinkles. Wrinkles will appear on our skin as it loses moisture, elasticity, and thickness.
Movements
The creases and folds that develop as a result of movement – especially in our faces. Even the most youthful skin wrinkles with facial expressions. Our smiles, frowns and other expressions fold our skin many times each and every day. With age, these wrinkles set in and become a constant feature of our face.
Environmental Causes
Many environmental causes can result in skin wrinkling faster and deeper. Sun exposure, smoking, dehydration, and even some medications can contribute to the escalation of wrinkles. Areas that are most exposed to the sun will likely be the first areas to show signs of wrinkles.
What Can I Do to Improve Wrinkles?
Although you cannot prevent wrinkles, you can take control of how your skin ages. Dr. Henry Lee in New Providence NJ recommends the following:
Lifestyle Changes
If you smoke, please stop. Use moisturizers to keep your skin from drying. Wear protective clothing when going outside and apply sunblock throughout the day if you are planning to be outside. It is important to note that it is never too early to practice sun protection (although, babies younger than 6 months should not use sunblock). Aside from skin wrinkles, employing good sun protection practices can help prevent skin cancers.
Topical Intervention
Topical lotions – including topical retinoids, vitamin A, and hyaluronic acid (HA) – can help reduce and smooth wrinkles on your face. Lee Aesthetic Center carries the essential skin care products for your everyday needs.
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Minimally Invasive Procedures
Botox® is a popular procedure that is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles. Botox® (Botulinum Toxin Type A) is FDA approved and is used to prevent certain muscle movements that cause wrinkles. It is injected in small doses to targeted areas. Botox® can greatly reduce wrinkles in the upper face, including the crow’s feet (wrinkles outside of the eyes) and the glabella (region between your eyebrows). Dr. Henry Lee offers Botox® injections at his New Providence, NJ office.
Soft tissue fillers, including collagen, hyaluronic acid, and fat, are used to fill or plump up skin, which can help to smooth out wrinkles. Common areas for soft tissue fillers are nasolabial folds, marionette lines, lips, and cheeks. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Henry Lee in New Providence, NJ to see if soft tissue fillers can help reduce your wrinkles.
Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are other procedures that can revitalize skin by altering the outer layers of skin and stimulating cell growth in the underlying layers.
Laser and radiofrequency therapy can be used to stimulate development of collagen using focused light or radiofrequency energy. There are a variety of lasers or radiofrequency devices used to achieve smoother, reinvigorated skin.
Finally, chemical peels can smooth wrinkles and generate smoother, refreshed skin.