Why wrinkles form
Wrinkles are normal lines, folds or creases that develop as skin ages; treating them is optional, which makes "antiaging" a rather opinionated name for a product category. Skin produces cells more slowly and loses collagen, the protein that gives skin structure, and elastin, which helps it stretch and recover. Aging skin also retains less moisture, which makes "rejuvenation" a very formal word for keeping water around. Repeated facial movements contribute to forehead lines, frown lines and lines around the eyes. Sun exposure accelerates these changes, and smoking reduces the production of new collagen. Treatment can improve their appearance, but there is no way to entirely prevent wrinkles from forming.3
Start with sunscreen and moisturizer
Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day on skin not covered by clothing. Broad spectrum means protection against UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply at least every two hours, more often when swimming, sweating or toweling your skin. Add shade, a wide brimmed hat and protective clothing rather than relying on sunscreen alone.14
Use moisturizer every day. Moisturizer can soften the look of some fine lines by trapping water in skin, a less dramatic job than the word "rejuvenation" suggests. If your skin is dry, wash with mild soap and warm rather than hot water; hot baths and too much soap can worsen dryness.14
Sun protection still matters after wrinkle treatment, including on cloudy or cold days. Without it, ongoing ultraviolet damage can undermine results and increase treatment side effects. Stop using tanning beds. Much sun damage is permanent, but treatment and sun protection can reduce some visible signs.2
Consider a retinoid for lines and texture
Retinoids are vitamin A derived ingredients that can reduce lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture. Retinol is available in products sold without a prescription; prescription retinoids are another option dermatologists use for wrinkles. These are products applied directly to skin at home. Ask your healthcare provider whether a retinoid is suitable for you, and follow the specific product or prescription instructions rather than borrowing another product's amount or schedule.5
How to introduce a wrinkle product
- 1Test a small amount on your inner forearm twice daily for four to five days, even if the product says "hypoallergenic." If there is no reaction, the product is likely safe to try on your face.
- 2Apply the product as directed. Using more than directed can cause clogged pores, a blotchy complexion or other unwanted effects.
- 3Limit the number of wrinkle products you use. Combining several can irritate skin and make signs of aging more noticeable.
- 4Stop a product that stings or burns unless it was prescribed by your dermatologist. For a prescribed product, follow your dermatologist's guidance about these effects.
- 5Allow time before judging results. Moisturizer can plump fine lines immediately, but most products need at least six weeks, and some take three months.
Choose products by more than the claim
An "antiaging" claim on a cosmetic is not a requirement for human testing, which is a lot of confidence for a word in quotation marks. Many wrinkle products are cosmetics rather than drugs and do not need FDA approval before sale. A dermatologist or primary care doctor can help you choose safe, effective products.4
Which treatments suit which wrinkles?
| Treatment | What it does | When to discuss it |
|---|---|---|
| Botulinum toxin injections, such as Botox | Block signals that make treated muscles contract. | For lines caused by muscle movement, including frown lines and lines around the eyes. |
| Fillers | Fill in or lift deep wrinkles and folds. | For wrinkles that remain when your face is at rest, especially around the mouth, nose and chin. |
| Microneedling | Creates tiny skin wounds that stimulate collagen and elastin during healing. | For fine lines and wrinkles. |
| Chemical peels | Use a chemical solution to remove upper skin layers. | For wrinkles, including those accompanied by discoloration. |
| Laser resurfacing | Uses concentrated light to reduce facial wrinkles and skin irregularities. | For lines around the eyes, forehead or mouth. |
| Facelift surgery | Removes excess skin and fat and tightens underlying tissue. | For a surgical approach to wrinkles and excess facial or neck skin. |
A dermatologist can combine treatments when different signs of aging need different approaches. Choose a board certified dermatologist for an assessment of your skin type, health and treatment goals. Results depend heavily on the skill and knowledge of the person performing the procedure. The assessment also includes checking for skin cancer before cosmetic treatment.2
What to discuss before a procedure
Discuss your current skincare, medicines and supplements before treatment so your provider can check for interactions. Possible complications include allergic reactions, swelling, bruising, pain and scarring. Ask whether your chosen treatment needs repeat procedures to maintain results; some do. Recovery instructions depend on the procedure, so follow the plan for the treatment you actually receive.35
See a dermatologist if a consistent skincare routine has not produced the improvement you wanted. Seek medical assessment for a new growth, a sore that does not heal or a bleeding mole rather than treating it as another sign of aging. Skin cancer is rarely painful, so pain is not a useful reason to wait.14
Where this answer comes from
- 1Wrinkle remediesaad.org
- 2How dermatologists treat sun-damaged skinaad.org
- 3Wrinkles & Fine Lines: Types, Causes & Preventionmy.clevelandclinic.org
- 4Skin Care and Agingnia.nih.gov
- 5How to Get Rid of Wrinkles: Retinol, Fillers & Other Treatmentsmy.clevelandclinic.org
