There is nothing more frustrating in the fight against aging than fine lines and wrinkles. To understand how to minimize their effect, one must realize that not all types of wrinkles are the same.

Unwelcome wrinkles are classified as either dynamic or static, depending on how they form. Dynamic lines are visible during facial expressions like laughing, smiling, or squinting. Static wrinkles are present always, etched in the skin over time.

Most patients begin to realize dynamic wrinkles in their mid-30s. Static lines become more likely later when a person reaches their 40s or 50s. Because treatment is different between the two, it’s crucial to identify each type so you and your doctor can select the most potent solution

Knowing the Difference

The easiest way to recognize the difference between the two is to know the meaning of the different terms. Static means stationary. Dynamic implies movement. Dynamic wrinkles appear when underlying tissue moves during facial expressions. When you laugh or smile, lines may form near the eyes (crow’s feet) or on the forehead. You may also recognize vertical lines between the brow or around the mouth. If these lines disappear when your face relaxes, they are dynamic.

Static lines are evident whether the underlying tissue moves or not. When your face is relaxed, and the wrinkles are visible, this type is static. Static wrinkles form when the body’s collagen and elastin production slow down. Collagen is a natural component which supports the skin by reinforcing its underlying tissues. Elastin promotes skin tightness or elasticity.

Causes

Although static wrinkles are part of your skin’s natural aging process, advanced collagen and elastin reduction can be elevated by smoking, environmental factors, and too much sun. When the skin begins to age and loses its vital support structure, dynamic wrinkles like crow’s feet, smile lines, and frown lines become static. These lines become etched in the face permanently where the skin is repeatedly creased or stretched.

Static lines often form in areas where dynamic wrinkles are common. They also show up in other areas not affected by muscle movements like the cheeks and neck. Neck bands and nasolabial folds are common static wrinkles which are not associated with dynamic lines.

Treatments

The skin care professionals at Montante Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics recommend utilizing Botox early in the aging process. This neuromodulator will relax small muscle groups which cause dynamic wrinkles making them disappear overnight. By continuing a Botox regimen, dynamic lines are prevented from becoming static, ensuring years of retaining your youthful facial skin.

Static wrinkles require restoring skin support and structure. During the aging process, underlying tissues may drop or change position, causing static wrinkles to form. Facial fillers like Juvederm or Voluma are ideal to “fill in” lost volume causing the skin to tighten and smooth away those deep lines and creases. Because it replaces hyaluronic acid, natural sugar which helps the skin retain moisture, it rebuilds connective tissue and damaged skin.

Start Today

If you are looking to restore facial beauty by softening static wrinkles which have been forming for years, or you wish to treat those dynamic wrinkles which are beginning to form around your eyes and mouth, we can help. Contact us to schedule a consultation and begin the process to regain or maintain your natural beauty.

Call us today at (804) 325-4795 to schedule a consultation