Not all wrinkles are the same. It might be surprising to you but not all wrinkles are bad or signs of skin ageing. Some lines and creases on your face are formed by various facial expressions or when you move your expressive muscles. They mainly appear on your forehead, around your mouth, and on your cheeks, without them, your face would be expressionless. To understand visible signs of ageing you must understand the types of wrinkles, which are characterised into three distinct categories: dynamic, static wrinkles and gravitational folds.

3 types of wrinkles

Wrinkles are more noticeable around your eyes, cheeks, mouth, and neck. The factors mentioned above are responsible for increasing those creases and lines on your skin. There are 3 main types of wrinkles that you should know about:

1. Dynamic wrinkles

Dynamic wrinkles, also referred to as expression lines, are formed from repetitive facial movements and when you are expressing emotions, such as fear, worry, sadness, joy, or surprise. “Over time, these wrinkles tend to appear around the eyes, forehead, neck, and mouth. They are a part of natural ageing processes and are linked to decreased elastin and skin flexibility,” explains dermatologist Dr Rinky Kapoor.

Research in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal suggests that dynamic wrinkles may also form during sleep due to facial distortion from specific sleep positions, further accelerating the signs of ageing. They can be further exacerbated by genetics, a poor diet, or regular smoking. Dynamic lines are only visible when you are using facial muscles, which include the following types of wrinkles:

• Frown lines (between the eyebrows)
• Smile lines
• Crow’s feet
• Forehead wrinkles

Treatment: Botox injections are commonly used to relax and smooth facial muscles, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles.

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2. Static wrinkles

Unlike dynamic wrinkles, static wrinkles remain on the face even when your facial muscles are relaxed and you are not making any expressions. “They are caused by a decrease in collagen and elastin production, loss of skin elasticity, and prolonged exposure to UV radiation and pollution,” says Dr Kapoor. They are deeper and more pronounced, and are seen in areas such as the corners of the mouth, across the cheeks, and along the neck.

Treatment:Topical retinoids, dermal fillers, and laser therapy are some options for treating static wrinkles.

3. Gravitational folds

Also known as wrinkles folds, gravitational folds are caused by the downward pull on the skin over time. As you age, a decrease in skin elasticity may cause the lower part of your skin to sag, which includes cheeks, jawline, and neck. Factors like smoking and sunlight can also result in this type of wrinkle.

Treatment: Surgical interventions like facelifts and neck lifts are often used to address severe gravitational folds.

Health Shots recommends: 5 best anti-ageing creams for women to reduce wrinkles and fine lines

What causes wrinkles?

Wrinkles and fine lines develop on your face primarily due to a combination of factors, including:

• Ageing: As we age, our skin loses elasticity and becomes drier, making it more prone to wrinkling.
• Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight accelerate the loss of elasticity and damage collagen production, leading to premature ageing.
• Smoking: Smoking also contributes to wrinkles by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the skin.
• Facial expressions: Repetitive facial movements, such as squinting or smiling, can cause lines to form over time.

How to reduce wrinkles?

Here are 7 tips to keep in mind when it comes to preventing or reducing wrinkles and fine lines:

1. Wear sunscreen

Shield your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days. You should also seek shade when outdoors.

2. Drink water

Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Another way to keep your skin hydrated is never to forget to apply a moisturiser. Using moisturisers containing hyaluronic acid can help maintain skin elasticity.

3. Avoid smoking

“Quit smoking, avoid exposure to tobacco smoke, and limit alcohol consumption, as they accelerate skin ageing by depleting collagen and restricting blood flow,” advises Dr Kapoor.

4. Manage stress

Stress is one of the most common causes of premature ageing. So, to manage your stress levels, practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

5. Get sufficient sleep

Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your skin to repair and regenerate. It will help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and promote  a youthful complexion.

6. Healthy diet

“Consume a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote skin health and combat oxidative stress,” suggests Dr Kapoor.

7. Use retinoids

Incorporate retinoid creams or serums into your daily skincare routine to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

Apart from these tips, you may also consider regular facial massage, using gentle upward strokes to improve blood circulation and enhance the delivery of nutrients to the skin. This may be beneficial in delaying signs of ageing, but more studies are required to know the benefits of regular facial massage on your skin.