What Are Wrinkles?
Wrinkles in the skin (aka skin wrinkles, cutaneous wrinkles, rhytides) are a common sign of ageing and can be defined as ridges or furrows on the skin surface.
Causes are multi-factorial: a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors are mostly the genetic background and cannot be altered. Extrinsic factors are sun exposure, smoking, alcohol, and nutrition – with sun (ultraviolet [UV] radiation) exposure being the main cause of extrinsic ageing.
Some studies show that UV radiation can be responsible for up to 80% of facial ageing (Uitto J,1997). These extrinsic causes can be reduced with effort, which can affect ageing signs such as wrinkles. Other factors that cause wrinkle formation include hormonal (especially oestrogen and androgens) influences and skin dryness.
Wrinkles and fine lines include signs of epidermal thinning, dermal-epidermal junction flattening, atrophy of the fat layer underneath the skin, skin laxity due to loss of collagen, and/or degradation of elastin. Accurately identifying these signs may help guide the appropriate management of wrinkles.
For more information on skin laxity and the procedures available at AEON Medical, visit our skin laxity treatment page.
Causes of Wrinkles
Wrinkles can be caused by a range of issues.
- Sun damage: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun is one of the main factors contributing to premature ageing. This UV radiation breaks down the collagen in your skin and affects the way your skin produces elastin. As the sun’s rays hit your skin, your body starts creating an enzyme called metalloproteinase. This impacts the way that your skin rebuilds and forms fibres, which can cause telltale sun damage, wrinkles, and also skin hyperpigmentation.
- Facial movements: The common lines that appear on your forehead and at the corner of your eyes are the results of everyday movements. Things you might not even realise you are doing like squinting or frowning create wrinkles over time.
- Smoking: When you smoke, your body produces less collagen. This causes wrinkles to form.
- Pollution: The smog particles and elements found in air pollution affect your skin every day as they break down collagen and affect your skin’s natural barrier.
- Ageing: As we get older, our skin is less able to hold onto moisture and heal itself.
Wrinkle Treatment Options
Treatment to remove wrinkles depends on the severity and type of wrinkles, as well as the patient’s skin type and medical history. While some wrinkles may not be completely eliminated, with proper treatment, certain treatments may help improve the appearance of wrinkles. Some treatments may also be used as part of an overall wrinkle management approach. It is important to seek professional advice from a qualified doctor for proper assessment and discussion of suitable treatment options.
Common types of wrinkle removal treatment options include: (Disclaimer: the following list is not exhaustive, and results are variable depending on the individual)
Lifestyle Modifications
Reducing or avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption may support overall skin health.
Sun Exposure Related Habits
Reducing tanning bed use, applying sunscreen appropriately, and limiting excessive sun exposure may support skin health. Using hats, protective clothing, and shade may help reduce sun exposure.
Routine Health Screening
To check for other health issues which may contribute to wrinkle formation.
Topical Cosmeceuticals
Mainly to provide skin hydration.
Botulinum Toxin A
Acts by relaxing the muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles, which, in turn, can cause static wrinkles.
Biostimulators
Examples include polynucleotides, hyaluronic acid based skin boosters, PLLA, PCL, and calcium hydroxylapatite, which may be used in certain aesthetic treatments
Energy-Based Devices (EBD)
Lasers, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), Alternating High-Frequency Ultrasound, RadioFrequency (RF), Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)/LED
Types of Wrinkles
Dynamic Wrinkles
Caused by repeated facial movements such as smiling, frowning, or squinting. They are commonly seen on the forehead, glabella, and crow’s feet area.
Sleep Lines
Caused by the pressure of skin against a sleeping surface (pillow, hand, etc). Commonly seen on the side of the forehead, cheeks, and/or jowls/chin. They are typically seen in locations that not related to facial expressions.
Static Wrinkles
These are visible even when the face is at rest and are commonly directly caused by the motion of the facial muscles during expression. They are commonly found in the location of dynamic wrinkles and aggravate over time. Once static wrinkles are formed in dynamic wrinkle locations, complete reversal is very difficult. Management options for neck wrinkles and frown lines may be discussed while the wrinkles are still dynamic. Prevention is an important strategy in wrinkle management.
Consult a Doctor for Wrinkle Assessment in Singapore
Medical consultation can help assess wrinkles and fine lines and guide suitable management options. At AEON Medical, Dr Jeslin provides consultation and treatment planning based on individual skin concerns and clinical assessment.
Whether you are concerned about dynamic or static wrinkles, suitable treatment options may be discussed based on individual assessment.
At Aeon Medical, we understand that each individual’s skin is unique. Treatment plans are developed based on clinical assessment and individual skin concerns. If you would like to discuss suitable management options, you may arrange a consultation with the clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most wrinkle treatments are not permanent due to ongoing ageing and environmental factors:
- Botulinum toxin and filler treatments may require maintenance over time, depending on individual response and treatment type.
- Peels and microneedling may involve multiple sessions, with maintenance schedules varying according to individual skin condition and response.
- The duration of effect after laser resurfacing varies depending on individual factors, skin care, and sun protection habits.
- Consistent at-home skincare may help support ongoing skin maintenance.
- In Singapore’s climate, regular sun protection and appropriate follow-up care may be beneficial.
The timeline for the results of wrinkle treatments varies by the type of treatment used:
- Botulinum toxin may show visible changes after treatment, with duration varying depending on individual response.
- Dermal fillers may produce visible volume changes after treatment, with the final appearance settling over time.
- Duration of effect varies depending on the product used and individual factors.
- Chemical peels and microneedling may show gradual changes over time, with the number of sessions depending on individual skin condition and response.
- Laser resurfacing may show progressive changes over time, depending on individual healing and skin response.
- At-home skincare products may require regular and consistent use over time before visible changes are observed.
Wrinkle treatments carry potential risks, which vary depending on the procedure and individual factors, and may include the following:
- Botulinum Toxin: Temporary bruising, headache, or asymmetry (resolves in days).
- Fillers: Swelling, bruising, or rare lumps.
- Peels/Laser: Redness, sensitivity, or hyperpigmentation (rare with proper aftercare).
- Surgical Options: Scarring or infection (uncommon with modern techniques).
Here are a few, low-cost options:
- Topical tretinoin: These prescription creams help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. They work by increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. While not as effective as some in-office procedures, they are a good option for people who are looking for a non-invasive and affordable treatment.
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): These are also available over the counter and can help improve the appearance of wrinkles and sun damage. They work by exfoliating the skin, which can help to smooth out the appearance of wrinkles.
- Sunscreen: This is a non-negotiable essential for preventing wrinkles and other signs of ageing. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and never leave home without it.
- Facial massage: This can help improve circulation and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. You can do this at home or get a professional facial massage.
- Botox: This is a commonly used option in wrinkle management. It is a prescription medication that is injected into the facial muscles to relax them. This can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, especially around the eyes and forehead.
Preventive skin care may form part of an overall approach to wrinkle management. You can prevent wrinkles before they start to appear by avoiding the things that are hard on your skin. This means avoiding alcohol and smoking. Protecting your skin from the sun and using SPF is crucial. Hats and lightweight full coverage clothing can also make a lot of difference.
Your skin is often a reflection of your health, so it’s important to take care of yourself from head to toe. This includes basic things like drinking plenty of water and using a moisturiser regularly. Regular medical checkups and a healthy lifestyle may support overall skin health.
When people arrive at our aesthetic clinic looking for wrinkle removal treatment, they often wonder why they have more wrinkles than their friends. Sometimes that is just a self-critical perspective, while at other times, it is indeed a measurably true fact.
Different people are exposed to different levels of pollution, they drink different amounts of alcohol, eat different foods, sleep at different hours, choose to smoke or not, and, most importantly, subject their skin to different levels of sun exposure. These are all of the factors that we call extrinsic ageing.
Apart from extrinsic ageing, each of us has their own intrinsic ageing factors. This intrinsic ageing is genetically determined. We all have our own genetic clock that can’t be changed in the same way as extrinsic ageing. These are the reasons why some people tend to have more wrinkles than others.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is, in no way, intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We make no representation or warranty of any kind regarding the accuracy, availability, adequacy, or validity of the information or procedures outlined on the website. Always consult professional medical and aesthetic advice for your skincare and medical concerns.
References:
- "Skin Pigmentation Disorders", National Library of Medicine, https://medlineplus.gov/skinpigmentationdisorders.html
- Amin Mahmood Thawabteh, Alaa Jibreen, Donia Karaman, Alà Thawabteh, and Rafik Karaman, "Skin Pigmentation Types, Causes and Treatment—A Review", National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10304091/
- Seemal R. Desai, MD, FAAD, "Hyperpigmentation Therapy: A Review", National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4142815/
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