Expression lines (or dynamic wrinkles) are types of wrinkles that are caused by repeated movement of facial muscles. Repeated facial expressions, like smiling, frowning and squinting, lead to the formation of lines that become more pronounced. There are many types of wrinkles and lines, but expression lines refer specifically to forehead wrinkles (frown lines), smile lines and crow's feet. In this article, we'll discuss in detail expression lines, what causes them, what can exacerbate them, and how to visibly reduce their appearance through your skincare.
WHAT CAUSES EXPRESSION LINES?
Expression lines, or dynamic wrinkles, commonly seen around the eyes, mouth, and forehead, are caused by the repeated contraction of the muscles in the face. When these underlying facial muscles contract, they pull on the skin, causing it to fold and crease. While these wrinkles only appear when making facial expressions (such as smiling, frowning or squinting), over time, these creases can become permanent. Expression lines are just one type of wrinkle that manifests on the face. The other types include:
- Static wrinkles: Static wrinkles are present even when your face is at rest. Static wrinkles form as the skin begins to lose its elasticity and sag as we age. Static lines include marionette lines, nasolabial folds, and necklines.
- Wrinkle folds: Wrinkle folds are caused by sagging skin that cause deep lines in the skin, particularly nasolabial folds.
- Compression wrinkles: Compression wrinkles happen when the face is compressed against something for a long time, such as when the face is pressed against your pillow while sleeping.
- Elastic creases: Elastic creases are a result of sun exposure, smoking and pollution and usually occur around the upper lip, cheeks, neck and decolletage.
WHAT FACTORS INFLUENCE THE FORMATION OF EXPRESSION LINES?
Ageing
Expression lines and wrinkles are a natural part of the ageing process. As skin elasticity declines and our skin cell turnover slows down, the skin begins to sag and lose volume which leads to fine lines and wrinkles forming. While ageing is the primary cause of wrinkles, there are other factors that can lead to wrinkle formation and more pronounced wrinkles.
Environmental factors
Environmental factors that can contribute to the development of expression lines include sun exposure, smoking, and pollution.
- Sun exposure and sun damage can affect the skin moisture barrier and damage the skin's collagen and elastin, which can impact skin laxity that affects skin laxity.
- Smoking can damage the skin's collagen and elastin, and it can also slow down the skin's natural repair process.
- Pollution can damage the skin's collagen and elastin and affect the skin’s moisture barrier, which can exacerbate wrinkles.
Lifestyle factors
- Skin dehydration, either from poor skincare habits or because of not drinking enough water, can cause the skin to lose its elasticity, leading to wrinkles and fine lines.
- A poor diet contributes to development of wrinkles, as certain nutrients are essential for the production of collagen and elastin.
- Sleep deprivation and a poor sleep cycle can dehydrate the skin and affect skin cell renewal, which can impact the skin’s elasticity.
Genetics
Genetics can also play a role in the development of both static and dynamic wrinkles. Some people are more likely to develop wrinkles than others, simply because of their genes.
HOW TO MINIMISE EXPRESSION LINES
Fine lines and wrinkles are a natural part of ageing and the decline in the skin's natural collagen production, so it can’t be prevented or avoided altogether. But there are some things you can do to minimise their formation and visibly reduce their appearance.
Sun protection
Sun exposure is one of the biggest contributors to expression lines, so it is important to protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.
Avoid smoking
Smoking damages the skin’s collagen and elastin and can contribute to the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
Get enough sleep
When you are sleep-deprived, skin can become dehydrated and lose its elasticity, leading to the formation of expression lines and wrinkles.
Address dynamic wrinkles with your skincare
A consistent anti-ageing skincare routine can help to minimise the appearance of expression lines and dynamic wrinkles, as well as reduce the risk of photoageing.
SKINCARE FOR EXPRESSION LINES
There are a few active ingredients that can help address expression lines and static wrinkles. These include:
- Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from environmental aggressors and harmful free radicals that contribute to premature ageing.
- Peptides (namely collagen peptides) can promote collagen production to maintain the skin’s elasticity and support smoother skin.
- Hyaluronic acid serums can help to improve the appearance of expression lines by plumping up the skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
- Retinol is a form of vitamin A that can help to improve the appearance of expression lines by stimulating cell turnover and restoring collagen production. Retinol can also help to improve the skin's texture and tone.
- Sunscreen plays an essential role in protecting the skin from harmful UV rays that can affect collagen production that contributes to dynamic wrinkles. Always include a broad-spectrum sunscreen in your daily skincare routine.
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