Wrinkles – on linens, in time, on our skin,… we generally don’t love them. However well-earned these markers of our maturity are, they don’t have to define how we look. In fact, deep expression lines like frown lines and brow furrows that stay put, regardless of our mood, can make us look unhappy or tired even when we feel otherwise. In this article we explain the different types of wrinkles we encounter on our skin and how to treat them non-invasively for a refreshed and rejuvenated appearance.

Expression lines or dynamic wrinkles.

These wrinkles are found in the areas of facial expression such as the eyes, forehead and mouth. These wrinkles form when the muscular tension created by repeated expressions pulls lax skin inwards. This skin laxity is characterized by a thinner dermis due to sun damage and intrinsic aging.

Static wrinkles.

The wrinkles and folds that remain constant on the skin’s surface are referred to as static wrinkles. These lines are not influenced by muscular movement and are the result of sun damage and the natural aging process. As the dermis deflates and the desquamation process slows down, the firmness of the skin begins to be compromised. Hollows form in the cheeks and under the eyes while the naso-labial fold deepens.

The best non-invasive wrinkle treatments.

Understanding the cause for a particular wrinkle is essential to its treatment. At Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare we have a wide-range of treatment solutions to address and correct wrinkles. Below you will find of summary of effective therapeutic treatments to smooth fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful appearance.

Topicals.

While the effectiveness of in-office treatments can not be replicated at-home, what we apply to our skin on a daily basis makes a big difference to the quality and health of our skin. Two topical treatments that are Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare mainstay recommendations for wrinkle treatment and prevention are vitamin C and retinol.

Vitamin C provides anti-oxidant protection and helps to stimulate collagen synthesis which is vital to skin integrity.
Vitamin A or retinol activates and regulates the cell renewal process which helps to smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

Neuromodulators.

Deep expression lines such as crow’s feet and frown lines can be readily softened and smoothed with a neuromodulator treatment such as BOTOX COSMETIC®. This involves targeting specific muscles with the neuromodulator treatment, which works to relax the expression line. Once addressed, the expression lines are noticeably smoothed for a more refreshed look. Neuromodulator treatments are a temporary solution, as the treatment is metabolized by the body over a period of 3-4 months, at which point a follow-up session is required to maintain results. Research has shown that there are long-term benefits for wrinkle prevention when regular neuromodulator treatments are administered, making this solution an excellent anti-aging method.

Fillers.

A second non-invasive injectable approach to wrinkle treatment is the administration of hyaluronic acid fillers to replace lost volume in the skin. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is found naturally in the skin. It helps to retain moisture and supports the healthy function of the skin cells and tissues. When used for cosmetic purposes, filler treatments such as Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® can address concerns with nasolabial folds, hollowness under the eyes, cheeks and temples, marionette lines around the mouth and more. A filler treatment can also be administered in conjunction with a neuromodulator treatment to address expression lines. The filler substance acts to restore lost volume and has been shown to stimulate natural collagen synthesis in the skin. Filler treatments can last anywhere from 6 months to a year. This will vary according to the individual and the area and type of filler treatment provided. The final result is improved and youthful facial contours.

Microneedling.

Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare offers microneedling with the SkinPen. This non-invasive treatment involves rolling highly refined needles over the skin, penetrating rapidly into the epidermis and dermis of the skin. The depth of penetration can be adjusted according to each patient’s needs and the desired treatment outcome. The micro-wounds created by the needle puncture stimulate a healing and renewing response in the skin, thereby activating collagen synthesis. Regular microneedling treatments help to smooth wrinkles and fine lines and improve the overall texture for rejuvenated skin.

Thermage®.

In as little as one treatment, Thermage® can noticeably tighten the skin and smooth expression lines and static wrinkles. The treatment involves the penetration of heat via radiofrequency waves to activate collagen synthesis and cell renewal in the dermis of the skin. While an initial firming is noticed due to mild erythema or swelling from the treatment, improvements are gradual, with the final results of a Thermage® treatment developing over a period of up to six months as the new collagen is formed.

As you can see, there is a wide range of effective non-invasive wrinkle treatments to choose from. To find out which approach will best address your skin’s needs, Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare invites you to book a complimentary consultation with Bethany, our medical aesthetician. Call 905.901.9545 or email [email protected] to request an appointment.