Wrinkles and Fine Lines

What are wrinkles and fine lines?

At Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, we understand that wrinkles and fine lines are areas of concern for many seeking to maintain a youthful appearance. These lines are most common around areas with more movement, such as the crinkling of the eyes, furrowing of the forehead, crepy skin on the neck, or the barcode lines around the lips.

Wrinkles, which are typically deeper than fine lines, form through the repetitive tensing of facial muscles. Over time, this constant muscle activity imprints a mark on the skin due to repeated movement.

Understanding these processes is crucial in addressing and treating signs of ageing effectively. Modern dermatological advances offer a variety of treatments that can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, restoring a more youthful and refreshed look.

What are the signs of wrinkles and fine lines?

These signs often manifest in areas where the skin experiences more movement or is naturally thinner, including:

• Forehead hyperlinearity: more visible especially in dehydrated skin.
• Frown lines: these can give a persistently concerned or angry appearance, which is evident without frowning.
• Crinkly under-eye skin: the thin skin around the eyes shows fine lines, which are more noticeable when smiling or applying makeup.
• Mouth wrinkles: smiling can accentuate loose skin and wrinkles around the mouth.
• Upper lip lines: also known as barcode lines, upper lip lines are etched wrinkles above the lips that can occur even if there is no history of smoking.
• Horizontal neck lines: prominent horizontal neck lines, also known as “tech neck”, are attributed to the modern habit of frequently looking down at devices.

Addressing these signs early on with appropriate skincare and treatments can significantly impact your skin's health and appearance. At Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, we tailor treatments and preventive measures to combat these common signs of ageing, aiming for a refreshed and youthful skin profile.

Who is at risk of wrinkles and fine lines in Singapore?

Our skin loses about 1% of collagen each year after we turn 30, and elastin diminishes at a rate of 0.1% per year, too. At the same time, natural moisturising factors are reduced, leading to dry skin. In general, drier and thinner skin with ageing manifests as fine lines and sagging. 

Specific factors can heighten the likelihood of developing these signs prematurely or more profoundly.

• Sun exposure: sun exposure can degrade collagen and elastin, sometimes causing elastin to clump ineffectively, leading to a leathery and yellowish appearance. 
• Smoking: smoking narrows blood vessels, limits nutrient flow to the skin, speeds up the breakdown of collagen and elastin, and hastens the appearance of ageing with reduced elasticity in the skin.
• Genetic predisposition: some individuals are more genetically inclined to experience early signs of ageing.
• Nutrition: a diet lacking essential nutrients can speed up the skin's ageing process, emphasising the need for a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
• Environmental exposure: air pollutants can damage DNA and proteins, fuel inflammation, and stiffen collagen and elastin, making them more prone to breakdown and contributing to premature skin ageing.
• Hydration: proper hydration is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and plumpness. Dehydration, often exacerbated by excessive alcohol and caffeine intake, can lead to dry and prematurely aged skin.

Understanding these risk factors allows us to adopt a proactive approach to skincare, emphasising the importance of sun protection, a healthy lifestyle, and adequate hydration to mitigate the risk of premature skin ageing.

How are wrinkles and fine lines diagnosed?

At Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, the diagnosis of wrinkles and fine lines involves a detailed visual examination of the skin. This examination assesses the skin's texture, presence of lines and creases, elasticity, and any signs of sagging. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of your medical history, including factors like sun exposure, smoking habits, and genetic predispositions, plays a critical role in identifying the root causes of these signs of ageing.

This thorough evaluation forms the basis of a personalised skincare plan designed specifically to target your concerns, aiming to minimise the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines effectively. Regular follow-up assessments are vital in monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment plan, allowing for any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal results.

What are the treatment options for wrinkles and fine lines?

Treating wrinkles and fine lines will vary among individuals, depending on how deep the wrinkles are. Treatment options at Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic include:

• Botulinum toxin injections: botulinum toxin injections are a highly effective method for relaxing facial muscles and reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles. This treatment suits forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines.
• Polynucleotide treatment: polynucleotide treatment targets the skin’s natural healing capabilities to enhance elasticity and hydration, offering a naturally rejuvenated look.
• 5-point bioremodelling hyaluronic acid injection: this treatment boosts the skin’s collagen, elastin, and fat production, improving skin turgor and reducing fine lines.
• Dermal fillers: dermal fillers restore lost volume and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines; they are particularly effective around the mouth, cheeks, and under the eyes.
• Chemical peels: gentle peels stimulate renewal and promote cell turnover, improving overall skin texture.
• Laser resurfacing: lasers such as MOXI laser, pico lasers, and fractional carbon dioxide lasers utilise laser technology to stimulate collagen production and rejuvenate the skin, thus reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Topical retinoids: prescription creams containing retinoids enhance cell turnover and improve overall skin texture.

Frequently asked questions

Can wrinkles and fine lines be prevented?

Fine lines and wrinkles occur naturally as we age. Preventing them altogether may not be possible. However, we can certainly slow down or improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with consistent skincare and sun protection. Additionally, maintaining good hydration levels, avoiding habits such as smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption will reduce the rate of fine lines and wrinkle formation. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants can also contribute to skin health.

At what age do wrinkles and fine lines typically appear?

Wrinkles and fine lines often manifest in the late 20s to early 30s. This timing correlates with the body's gradual decrease in collagen production—about 1% less collagen per year —and a yearly loss of elastin by 0.1%. Influenced by genetic factors and external contributors such as sun exposure and lifestyle choices, the ageing process plays a significant role in developing these early signs of ageing.

How long do treatments for wrinkles and fine lines last?

Treatments for wrinkles and fine lines vary, but the effects typically last several months. The longevity depends on the specific treatment method and individual factors such as skin type, lifestyle, and overall health.