A condition caused by atrophy of elastic tissue changes in the skin. Some develop in the normal course of aging, but severe wrinkling comes from repeated exposure to the sun. No cream, oil, or facial exercise can permanently smooth or remove. Only cosmetic surgery can produce a long-lasting effect on the appearance.
A fold in the skin.
Skin damage ranging from fine lines to deep furrows. Wrinkles have three primary causes: aging, sun exposure, and smoking. With age, the skin becomes thinner and produces less oil. Collagen and elastin, fibrous proteins in the dermis (the middle layer of skin), normally provide the skin with strength and elasticity. These fibrous proteins tend to weaken with age. Repeated sun exposure and smoking also can damage the fibers, leading to premature wrinkling and sagging.
A natural furrow in the skin commonly associated with ageing. Wrinkles are most prominent on the face and other exposed body parts. Overexposure to sunlight causes premature wrinkling. Cosmetic preparations may temporarily improve excessive wrinkling, but a face lift, which stretches the skin using surgery, can improve a person’s face for up to five years.
A crevice, furrow, or ridge in the skin.
Wrinkles are creases in the skin and are generally considered a normal part of the aging process. They occur due to a decrease in skin elasticity. Premature, pronounced wrinkling is often the result of excessive sun exposure or smoking.
While no treatment can permanently bring back the skin’s elasticity, some derivatives of vitamin A are thought to help reduce wrinkles. A facelift can temporarily smooth out wrinkles by pulling the skin taut, although the results typically last for approximately five years.