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None of us can avoid the lines and creases that characterize our faces over time. Chances are, you may have heard a dermatologist in Houston say, “we can turn back the clock, but we can’t stop it.” And that’s true. But aging isn’t the only culprit when it comes to wrinkles.
For example, the kind of wrinkles minimized by BOTOX® Cosmetic injections are caused by tiny muscles constantly contracting and relaxing as you change facial expressions. Those movements, over time, create what are called dynamic wrinkles. BOTOX works by temporarily immobilizing those muscles.
Sun exposure is another well-known influencer on when it comes to how quickly your skin begins to show signs of aging. The importance of applying sunscreen daily and taking other precautionary steps — such as wearing a hat when outdoors and using antioxidants— is a theme we repeat at our practice to every patient who walks through our doors. Not only does sun protection help keep skin looking youthful, it helps prevent skin cancer. Plus, there’s some evidence that the sun may cause BOTOX to break down faster as well.
In addition to muscle contractions and sun exposure, a number of other factors can influence the development of facial wrinkles, including some that few people think about:
1. Your sleep position: Sleeping on your side can make you more prone to wrinkles than sleeping on your back. Constant pressure on the side of your face gradually breaks down collagen — an essential element for smooth skin.
2. Weakening eyesight: This is related to the dynamic wrinkles mentioned earlier. If your eyesight is poor, chances are you squint much of the day. Those muscles that cause you to squint also cause wrinkles — especially frown lines (the vertical lines just above the bridge of the nose that are sometimes called the “11s.”)
3. Your diet: Most people know that eating a healthy diet is good for the skin. But you may not be aware that brightly colored fruits and vegetables are especially important. They are rich with antioxidants, the heroes in the fight against damage caused by free radicals. Look for foods with vitamins C, A, and E, which are all potent antioxidants.
4. Hydration: Hydrated skin is healthy skin. Drinking plenty of water every day is a simple way to help your skin retain its youthful, glowing appearance.
If you’ve already got more wrinkles than you’d like, there are a number of anti-aging treatments we offer that effectively minimize them. Simply contact us using the online form or calling the office to learn more.