Fine lines are the thin lines formed when the skin creases during a facial expression, such as a smile or frown. They are typically the first signs of skin aging and precede the formation of wrinkles. Technically, a fine line is simply a more superficial, very shallow wrinkle—and the biology behind its formation is exactly the same.
The formation of fine lines is caused by a variety of intrinsic and extrinsic aging processes, which are discussed below. However, heredity also plays a part, as do certain medical conditions such as Ehlers Danlos Syndromes, which can make the skin stretchy and fragile.
We begin to form fine lines as early as our 20's. This is the time when the body's production of collagen—the protein responsible for your skin's firmness and strength—starts decreasing by around one per cent every year. At the same time, production of its partner protein, elastin, decreases dramatically. As the name suggests, elastin is responsible for the skin's elasticity: its ability to not only flex and stretch, but also to 'bounce back' into shape afterwards.
Our skin also gradually begins to lose its ability to retain moisture as we age, too, making it dry and affecting its plumpness and resilience. The result? Our skin gradually loses its elasticity and firmness. It begins to sag, and its ability to bounce back gradually reduces, meaning that the lines created from facial expressions start to become indented.
This 'natural' or intrinsic aging is unavoidable, and for women, perimenopause and menopause bring fluctuating and falling hormone levels, which also reduces collagen and moisture in the skin.
Extrinsic aging, however, is something we have a certain amount of control over.
The formation of fine lines can be reduced or worsened by our skin's exposure to external factors linked to lifestyle and our physical environment.
The primary culprit of extrinsic aging is exposure to UV light from sunshine, which accounts for a shocking 80 per cent of wrinkles. UV light can break down collagen and elastin in our skin, making it weaker and less flexible. Tanning beds also emit harmful UV light, prematurely aging our skin.
The second biggest culprit is regular tobacco smoking. Smoking increases the production of an enzyme that breaks down collagen, and it and causes blood vessels to narrow, reducing the supply of oxygen and essential nutrients to skin cells. It also delays wound healing and increases the likelihood of infection. The smoke itself directly exposes the skin to heat and toxic chemicals.
Alcohol is another lifestyle factor affecting the skin, as it can affect blood flow and moisture levels, and environmental pollution can affect our skin too. Poor hydration and diet also have a negative affect on our skin health, and we need the right nutrients to build skin proteins and ensure a healthy blood supply to the skin.
By avoiding these factors, you can help to ensure your skin doesn't age prematurely.
Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, is a safe and effective treatment for your fine lines. However, there are a few cases in which it should be avoided:
Microneedling is also unsuitable for use of areas with Keloid scarring (raised or bumpy scars), and if you have rosacea, seek professional advice first. The suitability of microneedling for your condition may depend on the type of rosacea you have and what triggers it.
Microneedling creates minute wounds in the skin's surface. This process promotes the production of the skin proteins collagen and elastin as the skin rushes to heal the punctures.
Your microneedling sessions will usually be four to six weeks apart, and to reduce the minor side-effects, ensure you're well-hydrated in the days leading up to each session.
A device equipped with fine needles (around 0.5mm–1mm long) is moved over the treatment area. Afterwards, your skin may be a little inflamed or bruised, but this resolves within a few days. Try to avoid direct sunlight and strenuous exercise during this period so that your skin has the time it needs to heal.
You will need several sessions to see maximum results, but your smoother, firmer skin will be worth the wait!
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