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As seen in The Express
The Express takes a look at how to tackle frown lines with expert advice and guidance from Dr Ross Perry – London GP, cosmetic doctor and founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics.
The writer looks at why we get frown lines as well as what we could do to help improve them in a feature entitled:
‘I’m a skin expert – here are my tips for getting rid of frown lines’
What are frown lines?
Frown lines are the vertical lines which develop between the eyebrows and nose. They’re sometimes referred to as the ‘number 11’ lines, as may patients have a pair of almost symmetrical lines.
How do frown lines develop?
They develop due to the movement of two facial muscles – the procerus and corrugators.
The Express spoke to skin expert, Dr Ross Perry, who explained:
“These muscles control certain facial expressions and can be seen on anyone young and old when we ‘frown’. However, when we’re young these immediately disappear after we stop frowning.
“As we age, however, and we lose collagen in the skin, these lines become deeper and more visible and can remain visible on someone’s face permanently making one look angry in appearance.”
Will frown lines get better?
As Dr Perry told the Express, frown lines are usually there for good after a certain age. However, there are ways of lessening their appearance and lifestyle does have a role to play. Dr Ross says:
“First off, frown lines can be genetic unfortunately, but equally they can also be caused by lifestyle.
“Stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, alcohol, cigarettes and UV damage all go towards having fine lines and wrinkles and frown lines are also up there on the list- and once the damage is done it’s very difficult to reverse.”
Tips for improving frown lines
Dr Perry says:
“It’s important therefore that from a young age (early 20s) we look after the skin, use SPF year round, eat a healthy balanced diet of fresh fruit, vegetables, vitamins and minerals which will help to give skin a ready supply of antioxidants.
“Antioxidants help skin to repair and maintain itself by mopping up harmful atoms, known as free radicals. Make sure you’re using a good thick moisturiser in the winter and wearing SPF year-round.
“To stop frown lines getting worse or becoming more prominent, try to find ways to keep the upper facial muscles more relaxed. And if you find yourself frowning, try to stop the habit.”
Dr Ross Perry agreed that massage can be helpful in a limited way. He suggests massaging the face with an anti-ageing vitamin C serum, using the balls of your hand and massage vertically up and down the front line area. However, he warned:
“This will help reduce the deeper frown lines a little but unfortunately, won’t make much of a difference other than a slight reduction in appearance.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1840073/how-to-get-rid-of-frown-lines.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Botox, also known as botulinum toxin, is a highly effective treatment for smoothing out frown lines. Botox is a neurotoxin that can be injected into the muscles to temporarily paralyse them, repressing or stopping their action. This can help to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines caused by repeated facial expressions, such as frown lines.
How does Botox work for frown lines?
Frown lines, also known as glabellar lines, are formed when the muscles between the eyebrows contract repetitively, such as when frowning or squinting. Botox works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that causes muscles to contract. When muscles can’t contract, the frown lines soften and become less noticeable.
Benefits of Botox for frown lines:
- Smoothes out frown lines: Botox effectively reduces the appearance of frown lines by relaxing the underlying muscles.
Improves facial contour: By softening frown lines, Botox can subtly enhance the overall contour of the face. - Provides temporary results: Botox’s effects typically last for 3-4 months, allowing for a natural-looking rejuvenation without the need for permanent changes.
- Minimal downtime: The procedure is minimally invasive, with very little downtime required. Patients can resume normal activities immediately following the injections.
Before getting Botox for frown lines:
- Consult with a qualified practitioner: A medically qualified injector who has extensive training and experience is best. They can assess your facial concerns, evaluate the severity of your frown lines, and determine if Botox is the right treatment for you.
- Disclose your medical history: Inform your doctor about any existing health conditions, medications you take, and any allergies you have. This helps ensure the safety of the procedure.
- Follow post-treatment instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by your doctor, including avoiding strenuous activities and rubbing the injection site.
Remember, Botox is not a permanent solution for wrinkles. The effects will gradually fade over time, and repeat treatments are recommended every few months to maintain the desired results.
Dr Ross Perry
Dr Ross Perry regularly provides expert comment and advises the media on a range of skincare and health-related issues.
He has particular expertise in skin surgery mole removal and melanoma; having removed thousands of moles in his career, both within the NHS and privately through Cosmedics Skin Clinics. He has provided expert advice on sun damage and sun protection for a variety of UK media and publications.
He also comments on the latest cosmetic and anti-ageing treatment methods.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics
Cosmedics Skin Clinics was established in 2003 and has built up an excellent reputation for cosmetic and medical treatments, carried out by GMC Registered Doctors. The company offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including popular lip enhancement and anti-wrinkle injections/fillers; plus medical treatments including mole removal, thread vein treatment and excessive sweating injections.
Cosmedics Skin Clinics has a team of skin treatment doctors and surgeons in their 5 skin clinics across London and Bristol led by Dr Ross Perry.
Call 020 7386 0464 or email enquiries@cosmedics.co.uk to book an appointment.
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