Wrinkles

Wrinkles are lines or creases on the surface of the skin. They appear as a natural part of aging, most frequently over the sun-exposed areas of the body (i.e., face, neck, dorsum of hands).

Skin texture is mainly determined by genetic factors and skin type. Environmental factors that promote wrinkling over the course of many years include recreational sun exposure and smoking.

Divided into 2 categories, fine and deep lines, and classified as atrophic, elastotic, expressional, and gravitational. Each type develops in specific areas and is characterized by distinct cutaneous alterations.

Treatments include medical treatments (antioxidants, tretinoin), cosmetic procedures (fillers, botulinum toxin injections, chemical peels), and surgical procedures (laser ablation, dermabrasion, rhytidectomy).

Treatments are generally more effective for fine wrinkles. Deep creases require more aggressive techniques, such as plastic surgery procedures.

Wrinkles are lines or creases of the skin that appear as a natural part of aging. The aging process produces loss of skin thickness and elasticity, resulting in progressive skin atrophy, laxity, and wrinkling. These cutaneous alterations are exacerbated by the actinic damage of chronic sun exposure. Wrinkles most frequently appear on sun-exposed areas (i.e., face, neck, dorsum of hands). Hyperdynamic muscular activity may also result in folding and creasing of the overlying skin.