3 Ways to Prevent and Treat Fine Lines and Wrinkles
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When I was 27, I became obsessed with my 11s. The tiny parallel frown lines (or glabellar lines) etched deeply in between my brows were likely due to years of squinting from the back of the class, and long days spent in the Florida sun sans sunscreen. (I have so, so much regrets.) I hated my 11s—and I wanted them gone. For good. Problem is, very few topical over-the-counter serums and moisturizers made a dent in smoothing out the prominent lines. What did help, though? The three treatment options, below:
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Sunscreen: If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a million times: One of the most effective ways to prevent wrinkles is to wear sunscreen. We all know the sun’s rays are harsh, like really, really harsh. While its UVB rays are typically what causes you to burn after a few hours at the beach, the UVA rays will, in the long run, cause line formation. So in order to get ahead of the emergence of said lines, start slathering on your sunscreen (ideally from an early age), using one with a formula of SPF 30 or above. You can find really great options for under $20, like the Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen Water Essence SPF50+ and the Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 36.
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Retinoids: Shout-out to my good friend, Tretinoin. This prescription drug, a topical retinoid cream, has been keeping my skin smooth (and breakout-free) for years. That’s because retinoids “increase skin cell turnover and are known to stimulate collagen synthesis,” dermatologist Sheila Farhang, MD, previously told Allure. In order to get a prescription, you’ll need an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist, which will cost you—with or without insurance.
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In-Office Procedures: The most obvious “solution” on this list is Botox. Neuromodulators, the injectable treatment that relaxes muscles in order to keep them taut and unmoveable, are extremely effective at smoothing out the look and feel of wrinkles. They’re also extremely effective at draining your bank account, as these types of cosmetic procedures, which should only be administered by a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon, typically aren’t covered by insurance and require three to four appointments per year, depending on the results you’re hoping to achieve.
This definitely isn’t an exhaustive list of everything that can be done to smooth fine lines if that’s something you’re interested in, but it’s certainly a great starting point!
Reader Question
Are LED masks really effective? Can you get the same results by using good quality products?
— asks Anonymous Allure Reader
As long as the LED light is red, then yes! Derms say the red light can stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and increase blood circulation. But don’t expect overnight results—skin-care devices, like LED masks, are a time commitment and need to be used on a regular basis in order to see any sort of desired changes.
Have a burning skin-care question? Send one in.
Editor's Pick
BEST OVER-THE-COUNTER RETINOL: Shani Darden Retinol Reform Treatment Serum
Smooths and brightens skin thanks to a potent combo of fine line-fighting retinol and exfoliating fruit extracts
Great for all skin types, including sensitive
Quick Tip
Keep your retinol and acids separate. Derms recommend using these active treatments every other night, respectively, in order to prevent unwanted irritation and flaking.
Book Club
Aesthetica by Allie Rowbottom
★★★★☆
A former influencer reverses all of her previous plastic surgery—all while learning to acknowledge and cope with past trauma. It’s dark, it’s relevant, and it really makes you rethink your relationship with social media. 😬
Originally Appeared on Allure
