Fine Wrinkles - Definition, Causes and Treatments

Definition:

Wrinkles are the thin, creased, and sagging skin that is especially noticeable on the face, neck, and hands. Wrinkles are visible creases in the skin.  They are associated with aging changes in skin.  Frequent exposure to sunshine results in premature skin wrinkling.  The classification of wrinkles, also known as rhytids, is based on how deep into the skin the wrinkles extend. Fine lines are the result of changes in the upper dermis and may appear "etched" in the skin.

Fine lines and wrinkles arise because of irregular thickening of the dermis and because of a decrease in the amount of water held by the epidermis. This is mainly caused by sun damage and exposure to environmental toxins such as tobacco smoke.

The fine wrinkles are superficial and their removal is relatively easy through skin care, micropeels, and other simple treatments.

Causes of Fine wrinkles:

The possible causes of fine wrinkles are as:-

• Sun: It is the main cause of fine wrinkles. Ultraviolet UVA and UVB rays are the most damaging to the skin. Overexposure to sunlight has the same effect as superficial thermal burns. One of the main ways to delay wrinkles is to use sun block creams and lotions. Sun block also contains moisturizer which helps plump the superficial skin cells and minimize fine wrinkles.

• Hormones and wrinkles: Hormonal imbalances may also causes wrinkles.

• Loss of Elasticity: The most common cause of wrinkles is a loss in the elasticity of the collagen layer. Collagen is a connective tissue layer that supports the outer layer of the skin. As we age, there is a loss of collagen elasticity and support of the overlying skin. This causes facial wrinkling.

• Smoking: Smoking clearly decreases the microcirculation to the skin and increases the amount of facial wrinkles. Many chronic tobacco users have a marked increase in the number wrinkles around their mouth. Exposure to the sun or in tanning beds also decreases the elasticity of the skin, dehydrates the skin, and increases wrinkles in the skin. Harmful UVA and UVB solar rays deplete the skin of moisture and thin the dermal layer of the skin.

Treatments of fine wrinkles:

• Chemical peel treatments: These are performed on an out-patient basis. We will cleanse the treatment areas and then apply the chemical solution. A slight burning sensation felt for a short period of time, but the solution also works as a mild anesthetic. The depth of the peel will depend on the type of peel decided upon, but all peels reveal new, fresher, more youthful skin.

• Injectable collagen, is an animal protein filler material formulated for safe use in nearly all areas of the face, including the lips and crow's feet. Fine wrinkles are filled in by the material to reduce their visibility. The treatments are easily performed in the office and usually have minimal side effects.

• Microdermabrasion treatments, is also performed on an out-patient basis. An Aesthetician will clean your treatment area and then will use a jet sterile micro-crystals to gently exfoliate your skin. No anesthesia is needed. Pressure is adjusted for your skin's needs.

• Laser resurfacing: Laser resurfacing is a surgical procedure that uses an intense, pulsating beam of light to vaporize the outer layer of skin. Then, at lower power, the laser heats the underlying skin, which stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers. As the wound heals, new skin forms that's smoother and tighter.