We all heard the cliché: wrinkles are the map of the soul. But most would prefer not to remember the past in this way. What can be done about it? First of all, we should understand how wrinkles are formed. Further more, those who want to reduce their wrinkles will be able to explore the therapeutic possibilities.
Aging
Wrinkles are a consequence of the aging process. With age, the cells divide more slowly, and the inner layer, called the dermis, begins to thin. The elastin network (the protein that gives the stretch of skin) and the collagen fibers (the main supportive proteins in the skin), which support the superficial layers, becoming weaker or ruptures (sliding over each other) may cause wrinkles. With age, the skin loses its elasticity, is less able to maintain its hydration, the secretion of the sebaceous glands decreases, and the skin takes longer to heal. All these factors contribute to the appearance of wrinkles.
Contraction of facial muscles
Wrinkles between eyebrows (fringe wrinkles) and wrinkles that start at the corners of the eye are formed due to contractions of the facial muscles. Shivering, frowning, eye-browping, and other facial expressions tend to accentuate these wrinkles. Over time, these expressions contribute to the appearance of the double chin and can cause the skin to wrinkle around the eyes.
The effects of the sun
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation may cause early aging of the skin. Ultraviolet radiation that causes photoluminescence destroys collagen fibers and causes excess elastin formation.
When ultraviolet radiation destroys skin tissues, an enzyme called metalloproteinase is produced. This enzyme generates and reshapes new collagen. During this process, some healthy collagen fibers are destroyed, resulting in disorganized fiber formation called sun scars. Wrinkles are formed when the reconstruction process takes place continously, without ceasing.
Smoking
Healthy skin is continually regenerating. While the old collagen is destroyed, another is formed. The researchers observed that smoking causes a sharp decrease in collagen production. This in turn causes wrinkles.
What are the therapeutic alternatives for wrinkle reduction?
There are a variety of therapies that can be done without a prescription, including various creams or lotions. Also, your doctor mai prescribe retinoids treatment.
Other types of lasers, known as non-ablative lasers, can also be used to treat wrinkles. These lasers act by warming the dermis and stimulating collagen secretion. This technique, which does not affect the superficial layers of the skin, has a short healing period. However, the results are not as spectacular as the ablative lasers, which remove layers of skin.
Botulinum toxin and other types of injections are additional techniques that can be used to reduce wrinkles.
Patients will determine the appropriate type of treatment together with the doctor. Each patient should be assigned a certain type of treatment, depending on various factors that the doctor will take into consideration.
Removing superficial layers to reduce wrinkles can be a good way to regain the smoothness of your skin and look younger. Dermabrasion (removing cutaneous scratches) and chemical peeling are two of the usual methods used in remodeling the skin. Facial remodeling using the ablative laser is another technique that, like dermabrasion or chemical peeling, requires a longer healing period.
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