Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
|
|
Definition Return to top
Wrinkles are visible creases in the skin.Considerations Return to top
Most wrinkles are associated with aging changes in skin. Aging of the skin and related structures (hair and nails) is a natural process. Nothing can be done to decrease the rate of skin aging, but many environmental factors will increase the rate.Common Causes Return to top
Wrinkles can develop because of:Home Care Return to top
To minimize skin wrinkling, stay out of the sun as much as possible. When you are outside, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. If you smoke, stop smoking.Call your health care provider if Return to top
What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top
Your doctor may ask detailed questions about your wrinkles, such as:A detailed examination of the skin will be performed. If wrinkles are accompanied by a skin lesion that has changed in appearance, diagnostic tests may include a skin lesion biopsy.
TREATMENT
A dermatologist or plastic surgeon may provide choices from wrinkle creams to plastic surgery for dealing with aging problems. Current alternatives have relatively low risk, but are generally expensive.
Tretinoin (Retin-A) or other creams may be recommended, but these aren't guaranteed to help.
Chemical peels or laser resurfacing are very effective options for early wrinkles.
Plastic surgery (for a facelift, browlift, or other procedure) is available as an elective procedure that is generally paid for entirely by the patient (not by insurance).
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |