Dynamic Wrinkles vs. Static Wrinkles: What’s The Difference?
Most people view all wrinkles the same way: unwanted effects of natural aging. However, did you know that there are different types of wrinkles?
Wrinkles can be categorized into two major segments: “dynamic wrinkles” and “static wrinkles”. Each type has different root causes and forms in a different manner. In order to be properly addressed, each wrinkle type also requires a unique type of treatment. Here’s a quick overview of both static and dynamic wrinkles:
Static wrinkles
Static wrinkles are formed because of a natural loss of tissue volume, collagen, and elasticity – i.e., the results of normal facial aging. Collagen in particular is an essential protein that supports the overall framework of the skin. Over time your normal collagen production levels begin to slow down and all existing collagen begins to break down. The skin responds to the continual toll of gravity and this reduction in collagen with the creation of folds and furrows.
Static wrinkles are most common between the nose or mouth and cheeks. Nasolabial folds are a common area that showcases the effects of aging. However, it is possible for static wrinkles to appear nearly anywhere on the face.
Treating static wrinkles
The best way to address static wrinkles is with dermal fillers, a non-surgical treatment that has the power to quickly smooth and decrease the appearance of wrinkles. Fillers today have the power to provide complete facial rejuvenation, giving patients a more fresh and youthful appearance and earning injectables the nickname “liquid facelift”.
Dermal fillers require little to no recovery time. In fact, many people can undergo a full filler treatment during on their lunch hour. Results provided by fillers typically last about 8 months to 2 years on average, depending on the type and amount of filler used and where it is placed.
Dynamic wrinkles
Dynamic wrinkles, unlike static wrinkles, are formed through years of repetitive facial motions like frowning, smiling, squinting, and puckering of the lips. Basically years of muscle movements under the skin naturally wrinkle the skin.
Dynamic wrinkles form in high-movement areas of the face, such as around the mouth, across the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the corners of the eyes.
Treating dynamic wrinkles
The most popular and effective treatment type for dynamic wrinkles is a neurotoxin treatment, such as Botox or Dysport. These injectables are derived from a family of neurotoxins that relax the facial muscles that cause lines and wrinkles.
Like dermal fillers, neurotoxin treatments require no down time. Their effects typically last 3-4 months from the initial treatment date.
Other Treatment Options For Wrinkles
Beyond injectables, there are other effective treatments for wrinkles. Depending on the patient’s indications, they may benefit from other treatments including:
- Laser Skin Resurfacing: Skin resurfacing lasers work by removing old skin cells damaged by wrinkles or brown spots, replacing them with fresh, healthy skin. Popular resurfacing lasers include Fraxel Re:Store, Fraxel Re:Pair, Clear + Brilliant, and ActiveFX.
- Laser Skin Tightening: Lasers are used to heat the collagen underneath the skin’s surface in order to tighten the skin, helping to eradicate fine lines and wrinkles. Consistent treatments also promote new collagen growth and overall strengthening of the skin. Popular skin tightening treatments include Thermage and Ultherapy.
- Chemical Peels: Chemical peels are topically applied formulas that revitalize the skin surface by creating an even and controlled shedding of the skin cells. This allows new layers to be exposed, creating a fresh appearance and smoother texture to the skin surface.
Different methods may work better for some patients than for other, and only a skilled dermatologist or other skin care professional can help determine which procedure may be right for you.
A united group of skin care specialists from Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Austin's leader in Dermatology and Plastic Surgery. Articles posted under WD staff are authored through combined contributions from our entire team, including Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, Aestheticians, Physician Assistants, Aesthetic Nurses, and Patient Coordinators.
A good overview of the different types of wrinkles, and how a plastic surgeon’s methods might change depending on what kind need to be dealt with. It’s good to be able to identify them and know what you can do about your wrinkles.
Interesting stuff, I totally thought all wrinkles were created equal