Wrinkles, a natural part of aging, are prevalent among individuals, especially those with sun-exposed skin, such as the face, neck, hands, and forearms. With repeated sun exposure, wrinkles can become pronounced and deep, especially on the back of the neck. Genetics mainly determine skin structure and texture, but factors such as sun exposure, pollutants, smoking, and hormonal status also contribute to wrinkling.

What Causes Wrinkles?

There are several factors that contribute to the onset of wrinkles. Aging is the biggest culprit, as the production of collagen and elastin proteins in the skin slows down over time, making it less elastic and more prone to sagging and wrinkling. Sun exposure is another major factor, as UV rays break down collagen fibers and contribute to the development of abnormal elastin, causing wrinkles and fine lines. Smoking also accelerates the aging process of skin by reducing blood supply, which can lead to dryness and wrinkles. In order to prevent or reduce wrinkles, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun, quit smoking, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

Facial expressions can also cause wrinkles, with small muscle contractions leading to prominent lines on the forehead and around the eyes. Pollutants in the environment can also enter pores and break down collagen. 

What are the Types of Wrinkles?

Dynamic Wrinkles

Dynamic are caused by muscle activity in the face. Over time, facial expressions that require muscle contractions, such as frowning or smiling, train the muscles to contract in certain ways. This eventually causes deep lines to form on the face, affecting not only the appearance but also the resting facial expression. The most common types of dynamic wrinkles are crow’s feet and frown lines. 

Static Wrinkles 

Static wrinkles are the pesky lines that remain visible on the face even when your facial muscles are relaxed. They are often caused by natural aging and prolonged sun exposure. As we grow older, the production of collagen in our skin slows down, which leads to a loss of elasticity. Simultaneously, sun damage can cause irreversible harm to the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and discoloration. These wrinkles start as small creases in the skin but progressively deepen, making us look older than we are. 

What are the Best Non-surgical Treatments for Wrinkles?

BTX Injections 

BTX injections are a popular non-surgical wrinkles treatment in Singapore. These injections work by relaxing the muscles that cause wrinkles, such as those around the forehead and eyes. BTX injections are also used to treat medical conditions like migraines and overactive bladder. The effects of BTX injections usually last for three to six months and treatment should be repeated to maintain results. 

Profhilo

Profilo is a skin remodelling treatment that is highly effective at improving wrinkles and fine lines. The injectable treatment contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin, stimulates collagen and elastin production, and tightens the skin. Unlike other fillers, Profhilo is not used to fill in specific areas, but is rather more suited for improving skin texture and elasticity. The treatment is popular due to its almost-instant and long-lasting results, with improvements in skin quality lasting for up to six months. A course of two treatments, repeated every six months, is recommended to maintain the results. 

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are injectable substances used to plump up and fill in wrinkles on the face. By injecting these fillers just under the skin, they can create a smoother and more youthful appearance. There are various types of fillers available such as hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, and polymethylmethacrylate. The results of dermal filler injections are typically seen right away and can last for months or even years. It is important to discuss the various options with your healthcare provider and to be aware of possible risks such as infection, bleeding, or bruising. 

HIFU

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a promising non-surgical wrinkles treatment in Singapore. It works by using ultrasound energy to encourage the production of collagen, resulting in firmer and less wrinkled skin. HIFU has been found to be safe and effective for facial lifting and refining wrinkles, with results visible within a few months after treatment. However, HIFU may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with severe sagging skin or certain medical conditions. The procedure can provide many aesthetic benefits, including tightening sagging skin, lifting cheeks, eyebrows, and eyelids, and improving skin elasticity. Though the cost of HIFU is significantly lower than surgical facelifts, repeated treatments may be needed to maintain the desired results.