Wrinkles, Frown Lines,
Forehead Lines & Crows Feet.
What causes wrinkles and frown lines?
Wrinkles are a natural part of the aging process and occur as the skin loses its elasticity over time. They are the permanent visible lines seen on the skin surface. Frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet lines are the ones that seem to concern individuals the most.
Frown lines are the vertical and horizontal lines that form between the eyebrows. Forehead lines are the horizontal lines that run across the forehead. Crow's feet are the lines that radiate from the outer corners of the eyes.
Movement of facial skin is a physical response to emotions and occurs from infancy throughout life. All facial expressions, like smiling or frowning, are the result of contraction of certain facial muscles that cause facial skin to crease or line temporarily. These lines are called 'dynamic' lines. When we are young, immediately after a facial expression, the skin returns to normal and there is no sign of that facial expression left on the face.
Over time, with aging, permanent facial lines (wrinkles) form due to repetitive contraction of facial muscles combined with a natural decline in collagen and elastin production in the skin. Sun exposure directly damages the skins collagen, speeding up wrinkle formation. The problem with having permanent frown lines Is that you look angry whether or not you feel that way.
What can you do about wrinkles and frown lines?
The best treatment for reducing the appearance of frown lines, forehead lines and crow's feet is botulinum toxin, commonly referred to as Botox. Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botulinum toxin works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter responsible for muscle contraction. When injected into specific muscles, it temporarily paralyzes them, smoothing out the overlying skin and diminishing the appearance of wrinkles.
The treatment process for frown lines, forehead lines and crow's feet with botulinum toxin is relatively quick and straightforward. A skilled cosmetic practitioner will carefully administer a few small injections into the targeted areas. The injections are typically well-tolerated and cause minimal discomfort. However, a topical anaesthetic or cold pack may be used to numb the area beforehand if desired.
What else do I need to know?
Following the treatment, it takes a few days for the effects to become noticeable, and the full results are achieved within a couple of weeks. The duration of the effects varies from person to person but generally lasts around three to four months. As the effects gradually wear off, muscle contractions and wrinkling gradually return, prompting individuals to consider subsequent treatments to maintain their desired appearance.
It's worth noting that any injection into the skin can cause temporary mild discomfort, redness, mild swelling or bruising. A mild headache after the treatment is also possible. Drooping of an eyebrow or eyelid is a rare adverse event, and much less likely to happen if you choose an experienced well-trained injector with a thorough knowledge of facial anatomy who is not under any pressure to rush your treatment.
