The face that could launch a thousand ships is something most of us would limit within the pages of Iliad. But in our day to day activities there is a cause of worry for the rest of us who fall short of Helen’s face: fine line and wrinkle.

It is not surprising that at some point we fear aging and the thought of looking old. Fine lines and some wrinkles are the primary signs that one is undergoing the aging process. Wrinkles, or what scientists call rhytids are a result of the skin losing its elasticity. The largest organ in the body is the skin and it is sectioned into three parts: the hypodermis, dermis and the epidermis. The hypodermis, also called the subcutis, is the deepest layer containing loose connective tissue and fat. Its primary purpose is for the body’s insulation and to hold on to nutrients that the other layers of skin rely on. The second layer, known as dermis, is rich in collagen and gives the skin its characteristic elasticity and strength. Lastly, the epidermis which forms the outermost part of the skin is responsible for regenerating and providing the skin’s characteristic color. All these layers contribute to one’s youthful longevity and intrinsic aging. Scientists in the know say that intrinsic aging is impossible to terminate. As the skin ages, it loses its elastic properties and the gradual breakdown of collagen hastens this as well. However, extrinsic aging, or that type of aging caused by external factors like sun exposure, constant muscle movement, gravity, surgery, skin diseases and smoking may be controlled to at least retard the aging process. 

When the aforementioned factors kick in, fine line and wrinkle appears. The dermis begins to thicken irregularly and the epidermis’s ability to hold water lessens. Several types of wrinkles become bothersome, such as the crow’s feet, as they are usually called, which emanated from smiling and the movement of muscles in the eyelids. Another type of wrinkle known as the frown lines which can be found between one’s eyebrows are caused by two muscles - the supercilii and procerus – which react in times when an individual is angry or concentrating on something.   Lastly, there are the worry lines appearing on the forehead when the frontalis muscle contracts during the raising of one’s eyebrows.  

There are several treatments available for fine line and wrinkles. Experts agree that the cheapest and primary treatment for these troublesome creases is avoiding too much sun exposure. That hat you just bought from a tiny store could go a long way when you wear it to avoid being exposed to the sun. Wearing sunscreen when going out is also helpful, as well as hydrating yourself all the time. If the following basic precautionary measures fall short of your expectations, there are other non-invasive treatments available like derma fillers which contain properties that enhance collagen production and make those wrinkles plump so they will appear smoother. Finally, for people with deep set wrinkles and furrows, filler injections and facelifts are said to be advisable because they produce dramatic results almost instantaneously. Whichever treatment you choose bear in mind that the skin is like any organ in the body: it requires your constant care and attention.