“Dynamic lines” or wrinkles can also be referred to as “movement related” as they are caused by repeated movement such as frowning.
These facial lines and wrinkles occur as a result of repetitive actions such as smiling, frowning, squinting, and other expressions that involve muscle contractions. Over time, these movements can cause the skin to lose elasticity, resulting in fine lines and wrinkles.
Three of the most common areas where dynamic lines and wrinkles appear are
- Forehead – horizontal lines running across from side to side
- Frown lines – these often appear as a ‘number 11’ pair of vertical lines, starting between the eyebrows
- Crow’s feet or laughter lines – these appear around the eye area and often radiate out as a series of creases
However, they can occur in other areas of the face as well.
How to avoid dynamic lines & wrinkles
It isn’t possible to avoid dynamic lines and wrinkles forever, but you can take a few preventive measures to slow or minimise their appearance.
Firstly, be aware that smoking exacerbates the appearance of lines. They can appear earlier or more severe than in non-smokers. Sun exposure has a similar impact, so it’s essential to protect your skin from sun damage, as it can accelerate the aging process. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day and avoid excessive sun exposure.
Secondly, consider using skincare products that contain antioxidants and other anti-aging ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and increase collagen production.
Finally, it’s worth being mindful of your facial expressions. You don’t want to stop smiling and laughing, but you may want to try to avoid frowning, as that is a repetitive movement which can cause dynamic lines and wrinkles. Stress can contribute to premature ageing, so it may also help to practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
Treatments to Consider:
Top recommendation for dynamic lines
Anti-wrinkle injections (brand names Botox or Bocouture) are the top recommendation for movement-related wrinkles. These products contain a ‘neurotoxin’ that is injected into the muscles responsible for causing wrinkles. It temporarily paralyses these muscles, preventing them from contracting and creating wrinkles. Botox is commonly used to treat dynamic wrinkles in the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes (crow’s feet).
Other treatment options for dynamic lines
BOTOX (or Bocouture) are generally the best solution for dynamic lines as they deal with the repetitive movement causing them. However, it can also be helpful to consider treatments that boost the health and condition of the skin. There are other treatments that may be considered instead or as well, depending on the client’s preference and the nature of the concern. Treatments may even be combined in order to take advantage of greater benefits. Consider:
- Dermal Fillers – helpful for smoothing out deeper creases
- Chemical peels or Microdermabrasion – intensive exfoliation to resurface the skin, improve fine lines and boost collagen
- Dermaroller – microneedling treatment to boost collagen production
- TIXEL thermal fractional rejuvenation – heat energy treatment to stimulate cell renewal
