Expression lines are creases that form on the face when we make repeated facial expressions while smiling, frowning, squinting, or raising our eyebrows. When we are young, these lines are barely noticeable and disappear when the facial muscles relax. However, as we age, the skin loses elasticity and collagen, causing these lines to become more pronounced and permanent. Apart from ageing, factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and genetics can accelerate the formation of these lines and wrinkles. If you are also noticing these lines, here’s how to get rid of expression lines.

What are expression lines?

Expression lines or wrinkles, are creases that form on the face due to repeated facial expressions. Smiling, frowning, squinting, and other gestures over time cause these lines to deepen. While they are a natural part of ageing, these lines may also be formed due to various other reasons, including sun exposure and lifestyle factors.

Causes of facial lines

There are several factors that can lead to facial lines, some of the most common ones you should know:

1. Ageing

Expression lines, such as fine lines and wrinkles, are a natural part of ageing. According to a 2020 study published by Bentham Open Access, skin collagen, and elastin synthesis decrease by 1 percent each year, leading to disorganisation of connective tissue. This depletion of collagen and elastin causes the development of wrinkles in the skin. It may make your skin look saggy.

2. Genetics

Our genes decide how fast and visible our expression lines become. Research published by Frontiers in Ageing explains that ageing is influenced by both inherited intrinsic factors and extrinsic or environmental factors. Intrinsic ageing happens naturally because of your genes, causing degeneration of cell function and the skin’s support structure to weaken over time.

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3. Lifestyle factors

Environmental factors such as air pollution, sun exposure, and, smoking can also take a toll on your skin, showing signs of ageing, as per a study published by Frontiers in Ageing. Here are some environmental factors that may cause expression lines:

• Inadequate rest and sleep can weaken skin regeneration and repair processes.
• Tobacco smoke damages collagen and elastin fibres, accelerating wrinkle formation.
• Insufficient hydration reduces skin elasticity and promotes wrinkles.
• Consuming junk or oily foods deprives the skin of essential nutrients for elasticity.
• Inactivity can lead to poor blood circulation, making your skin prone to skin-related problems such as dryness, acne, etc.
• Excessive alcohol dehydrates the skin and impairs collagen production.
• UV radiation and sun exposure break down collagen and elastin, causing premature ageing and lines.
• Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which accelerates skin ageing and wrinkle formation.

Types of expression lines

Expression lines are natural since they appear when your facial muscles are used while speaking or talking. There are 5 types of expression you may notice on your face:

1. Frown lines

Frown lines, also known as glabellar lines, appear between the eyebrows and nose when you frown or give someone a death stare.

2. Lip lines

Lip lines, commonly known as smoker’s lines, are the vertical lines that form around your mouth. They appear when you move your mouth to speak, smile, breathe, and eat.

3. Smile lines

Smile lines, also known as laugh lines, extend from the sides of your nose to the corners of your mouth. They usually emerge when you laugh or smile.

4. Forehead lines

Forehead lines or wrinkles, are another type of expression that may cause horizontal lines on the forehead. They usually occur when you are tense or in deep thought.

5. Crow’s feet

Crow’s feet are found at the outer corners of the eyes and occur when smiling. They become more visible as you age.

How to get rid of expression lines?

Here are 10 tips to follow to get rid of expression lines:

1. Keep yourself hydrated

To have young and glowing skin, proper hydration is crucial. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin elasticity by keeping it hydrated from the inside out.

2. Use a moisturiser daily

Do not leave your skin without moisturiser. Dermatologist Dr Rinky Kapoor says, “To keep your skin well hydrated and nourished, using a moisturiser is essential. You may use gel-based hyaluronic acid moisturiser to reduce the appearance of fine lines.”

3. Protect your skin from the sun

UV rays from the sun can accelerate the ageing process and lead to the formation of expression lines, according to the Better Health Channel. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF daily, even on cloudy days. Wearing a hat and sunglasses can also provide additional protection.

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4. Use retinoids

Retinoids are powerful skin ingredients for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They work by stimulating collagen production and promoting cell turnover, resulting in smoother, younger-looking skin. Use it after consulting with a dermatologist.

5. Practise facial exercises

Facial exercises can help strengthen the muscles underlying the skin, reducing the appearance of expression lines. “Incorporate exercises such as forehead lifts, eye squeezes, and cheek lifts into your daily routine to target specific areas prone to wrinkles,” suggests Dr Kapoor.

6. Get sufficient sleep

Lack of sleep can contribute to the formation of expression lines and exacerbate existing ones. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your skin time to repair and regenerate. Use silk pillowcases to reduce friction and prevent creases on your skin while sleeping.

7. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol Consumption

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can accelerate skin ageing and contribute to the formation of wrinkles, including expression lines. Quitting smoking and moderating your alcohol intake can help improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.

8. Eat a balanced diet

Your diet plays an important role in how your skin will look. “To reduce the signs of expression lines, consume a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals,” recommends Dr Kapoor. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet, and limit your intake of processed foods and sugars, which can contribute to inflammation and skin ageing.

9. Stay relaxed and manage stress

Chronic stress can lead to the overproduction of cortisol, a hormone that can break down collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to the formation of wrinkles. Practise stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature to promote relaxation and overall well-being.

10. Use topical treatments

“Incorporate anti-ageing skincare products into your daily routine that contain ingredients such as retinoids, peptides, antioxidants (such as vitamins C and E), and collagen-boosting ingredients like niacinamide,” advises Dr Kapoor. These ingredients can help stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of expression lines over time.

Follow these tips and keep your skin young and glowing!