Wrinkles are creases or folds in the skin. Even babies have wrinkles but they are generally folds of skin which appear as wrinkles. Wrinkles can appear after immersion in water. However, the wrinkles on the face and especially surrounding the eye cause the most concern for many people.
Layers Of The Skin
- The surface, visible layer is called the Epidermis.
- Under the epidermis lies the middle layer known as the Dermis.
- Beneath this is the Subcutaneous layer, the third innermost layer.
As we age the dermis or middle layer looses it’s elastic quality. The dermis contains fibres called Elastin and a protein called Collagen, both of which prevent wrinkles and allow the skin to have that young, fresh look and feel. The skin is able to retain moisture and has the ability to stretch.
As time goes by the dermis gradually loses both Elastin and Collagen, causing the skin to become thinner and less able to retain moisture. The subcutaneous layer also begins to lose the fat that gives youthful skin that pleasant smooth look.
Wrinkles around the eyes, known as crows feet, and the brow also become visible due to the contraction of minute muscles just beneath the skin surrounding the area.
Main Causes Of Wrinkles
- Genetics – Age can cause crows feet and furrowed brows, however, the chance of developing wrinkles early in life is more likely if your parents did.
- Sunshine - Squinting in poor light or strong sunlight will hasten the advent of wrinkles. Those who spend much of their time in the outdoors will inevitably develop wrinkles earlier in life then those who work indoors.
- Uncorrected vision impairment can hasten the wrinkling process.
- Smoking – Smoking encourages wrinkles as the face screws up to stop any smoke getting in the eyes. Smoking also results in a reduced supply of blood to the skin.
The skins natural oil is called sebum, and some people will have more and others less sebum and/or collagen, the elastin quality will also vary from person to person so wrinkles can appear at an early age on the unfortunate or be delayed well into middle age. Its all down to genes and lifestyle.
How To Treat Wrinkles Around The Eyes
The earlier you start using a very light moisturising cream on the delicate eye area the better. There are many anti wrinkle creams specifically targeted for the eye area. Ingredients vary but any light cream will give back moisture to the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Surgical Treatments For Wrinkles
Botox -
This is growing in popularity amongst men and women of all ages. It works by injecting small doses of Botulin Toxin into the wrinkles. Botox is mainly used on the forehead and around the eyes. It is very effective but only lasts a few months and will need to be regularly topped up. If not, the wrinkles will come back.
Dermal Fillers – Temporary or long lasting.
This is a minimally invasive procedure which will plump the injected area and can erase fine lines and lift the brow area.
Types of Fillers
- Hyaluronic acid
- Restylane
- Patients own fat
- Collagen
Dermabrasion
A surgical procedure which requires a local anaesthetic. The upper layer of skin is scraped or sanded away using a specialised instrument.
Microdermabrasion
This is a gentler version of the above, but uses a spray of microcrystals to remove the outer most layer of skin. Fine lines and wrinkles are reduced.
Chemical Peels
A peel will improve the appearance of the skin. A chemical solution is applied to the area and left for up to ten minutes before being washed off. Fine lines and wrinkles will diminish and softer, smoother skin left in their place, although the skin will be red for a while and may sting.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser treatment for wrinkles has now replaced dermabrasion to a large extent due to its ability to target specified areas more accurately and precisely. Recovery time may be as long as 30 days and it is essential to have this treatment performed by a qualified physician to avoid infection or scarring.
Brow Lift
Please read for more information. Restore That Youthful Look With An Eyebrow Lift
