Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Wrinkles are creases in the skin. They are also called rhytids.
Considerations
Most wrinkles come from aging changes in skin. Many things in the environment will speed up the ageing process.

Frequent exposure to sunlight results in early skin wrinkles and dark areas (liver spots). It also increases the chances of getting skin cancer. Exposure to cigarette smoke can also make the skin wrinkle sooner.

Causes

• Common causes of wrinkles include:
  Genetic factors (family history)
• Normal aging changes in the skin
• Smoking
• Sun exposure

Home Care
Stay out of the sun as much as possible to limit skin wrinkles. Wear hats and clothing that protect your skin and use sunscreen when you are outside. Avoid cigarette smoke.

When to Contact a Medical Professional
Wrinkles are not usually a cause for concern unless they occur at an early age. Talk to your health care provider if you think that your skin is getting wrinkled faster than normal at an early age. You may need to see a skin specialist (dermatologist) or plastic surgeon.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit
Your doctor will ask questions such as:

• When did you first notice that your skin seemed more wrinkled than normal?
• Has it changed in any way?
• Has a skin spot become painful or does it bleed?
• What other symptoms are you having?
• When did you first notice that your skin seemed more wrinkled than normal?
• Has it changed in any way?
• Has a skin spot become painful or does it bleed?
• What other symptoms are you having?

References
Habif TM. Light-related diseases and disorders of pigmentation. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 19.

Rohrer TE, Wesley NO, Glogau R, et al. Cosmetic Surgery. In: Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Schaffer JV, et al, eds.Dermatology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa:Mosby Elsevier; 2012:chap 152.

How it works