Why do we get wrinkles?

Why do we get wrinkles?

Have you ever wondered why we get wrinkles and lines? On the Level 7 qualification (part of MAP7 Master of Aesthetics) we will look at the natural biological ageing processes, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors which cause wrinkles.

While wrinkles are a normal part of ageing, there are various preventive measures and treatments available to mitigate their appearance.

Wrinkles are a natural part of the ageing process and occur for several reasons:

1. Reduced Skin Elasticity: As we age, our skin loses elasticity because the production of collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep our skin firm and elastic, decreases. This loss of elasticity causes the skin to sag and form wrinkles.
2. Decreased Moisture: Older skin has fewer sweat and oil glands, which results in less natural oil production. This decrease in natural moisturization can make the skin appear more wrinkled.
3. Fat Distribution Changes: The layers of fat beneath the skin also diminish and redistribute as we age, leading to sagging skin and the formation of wrinkles, particularly in the face.
4. Exposure to Sunlight: Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun speeds up the natural aging process by breaking down the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers more quickly. This is known as photoageing, and it can lead to premature wrinkles and increased skin roughness.
5. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor diet, dehydration, and certain environmental exposures can accelerate the development of wrinkles. Smoking, for instance, can accelerate the ageing process of your skin, partly due to the reduction in blood supply to the skin.
6. Genetics: Genetic factors also play a role in how our skin ages, including the development of wrinkles. Some people may be more genetically predisposed to develop wrinkles at a younger age. 
7. Facial Expressions: Repeated facial expressions, such as squinting, smiling, or frowning, can lead to fine lines and wrinkles. Each time we use a facial muscle, a groove forms beneath the surface of the skin, and as the skin ages, it loses its ability to spring back into place.

How do we get rid of wrinkles in aesthetics?

As Aesthetic Practitioners, we are particularly concerned with the last point (Facial Expressions). While we can advise clients on their lifestyle choices and daily skincare routine, we cannot control this once they have left our clinics. We can however us products to treat wrinkles.

Wrinkles appear in areas between key muscles (such as either side of the procerus muscle) as well as areas of the skin effected by contracting muscles such as the pulling down of the eyes by the corrugator supercilii and hypertrophy lines across the forehead from the movement of the procerus. Lines are also formed from the interaction between difference muscles (such as the character muscles in the forehead interacting with the orbicularis oculi sphincter muscles around the eyes causing crows feet).

Botulinum Toxin – often referred to by “muggles” as Botox® (which is a brand name of neurotoxin Botulinum Toxin produced by Allergan pharmaceuticals, similar to how people say Hoover® when they mean vacuum).
We can use Botulinum Toxin injections in aesthetics to temporarily paralyse muscles for approximately 12 weeks. Precision placement of this product, with injection points suited to each individual client, can hugely decrease wrinkles and signs of ageing, it is one of the most popular products in the cosmetic world.

You will find on this page an educational short video talking you through the main facial muscles which cause wrinkles in the upper face. Here we are looking at a male client specifically and how we can use Botulinum Toxin to treat the lines.

As well as anti-wrinkle injections, Dermal Filler can be used to add definition to a client, giving a more youthful look.

In addition – Skin Boosters such as Hyal Seventy® and Profhilo® can be used to improve skin texture, elasticity and hydration. (Skin Booster injections are not covered on Level 7, this is an additional Advanced Aesthetics Course we offer).

For more information on training with the UK’s Leading Aesthetic Academy (and creator of the OFQUAL Regulated Level 5 and Level 7 Certificates in Aesthetic Practice) – fill out the form below: