They’re some of the first signs of ageing we notice, and often the first signs of ageing we seek to treat.
Fine lines and wrinkles are caused by the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin. As we age, our bodies slow down the production of collagen and our skin begins to lose its strength and elasticity over time.
While their causes are the same, fine lines and wrinkles are different, and so too are the ways in which they are treated.
What are fine lines?
Fine lines are shallow, superficial creases that appear on our faces as we age and are normally found around the areas where we show expression, such as the eyes, mouth and forehead.
While fine lines tend to appear gradually and can initially be quite faint, they may eventually turn into wrinkles over time as our skin loses its elasticity.
What are wrinkles?
Wrinkles are deep lines that appear on the face as we show expressions, such as laughing, frowning or smiling.
Wrinkles can also appear on other parts of the body, typically areas that have been exposed to the sun, including the hands, neck, chest and back.
Wrinkles are caused by the ageing process, but their severity can depend on other factors such as sun exposure, smoking, dehydration, some medications, and genetics.
Fine lines vs wrinkles: what’s the difference?
Fine lines are essentially the start of wrinkles. Fine lines are close to the surface of the skin, while wrinkles are deeper and more pronounced.
Unlike fine lines, which typically appear on the face, wrinkles can appear on other parts of the body.
Both fine lines and wrinkles develop as we age, and both can be treated to reduce their appearance.
What are the best treatments for fine lines?
The treatment you choose for fine lines depends on where they appear and their causes.
Topical treatment is often the first approach to treating fine lines. Sun exposure is one of the most prolific external causes of wrinkles and fine lines so it’s important to use a high SPF sunscreen, such as SPF 50, in the first instance. The addition of retinoids to stimulate collagen synthesis and slow down collagen breakdown, which is mainly caused by sun exposure, is a must-have in your skin care toolbox. Thirdly, a powerful antioxidant is needed to neutralise free radicals caused by sun exposure and other pollutants. The most extensively tested and effective antioxidant is L-ascorbic acid, also known as Vitamin C.
Anti-wrinkle injections are a quick and easy treatment for fine lines, are safe and come with no down time.
Dermal fillers add volume to areas where it has been lost, and depending on the type of filler used, can also lift and hydrate the skin. Specialist fillers also stimulate new collagen production, helping to tighten skin and add volume, and can improve fine lines in certain areas.
What are the best treatments for wrinkles?
Anti-wrinkle injections are quick and easy and can visibly reduce the appearance of wrinkles. They work by blocking signals from the nerves to the muscles, making wrinkles relax and soften.
Dermal fillers are also a powerful way to replace volume loss in the face to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance, and some can also lift mildly sagging skin and hydrate the skin. In Australia, the most commonly used fillers are composed of hyaluronic acid, which is naturally produced by our bodies.
Specialist dermal fillers can also stimulate the skin to produce new collagen. At Bass Coast Skin Doctors, our specialist non-hyaluronic acid fillers promote collagen stimulation, as well as offer the lifting and volumising benefits of standard hyaluronic acid fillers.
Tixel skin rejuvenation is a treatment that uses thermal energy to target particular areas of the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. During a Tixel skin rejuvenation treatment, a handpiece is moved across the skin to create tiny injuries which triggers a natural healing response in the body, thus generating new collagen which can result in fewer wrinkles.
Talk to the skin experts at Bass Coast Skin Doctors
At Bass Coast Skin Doctors, we understand the difference between fine lines and wrinkles, and during a consultation will identify the specific needs of each and formulate an individual treatment plan for you.
Are you looking for a skin clinic that offers anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers near San Remo or Phillip Island? Bass Coast Skin Doctors can help.
Book a consultation today and find out about which treatments will best work for you. Call (03) 5618 7007 or book an appointment online.