What to Do about Those Stress-Induced Wrinkles

Let’s get a harsh truth out of the way: wrinkles are inevitable. Lotions, potions, nips and tucks, they all help slow the hands of time, but it will still march on. And if you work in a high-stress industry, you might find yourself aging a little faster than expected.

Why Stress Causes Wrinkles

Yes, scowling as you work on a tough problem or rush to finish that report contributes to this — especially those “angry elevens.” But it actually comes down to hormones more than anything.

When you are stressed, the body releases cortisol. This hormone is essential to our survival, helping us take action in dangerous situations. But it also does something else you might not expect: break down collagen and elastin. These are the two proteins that keep the skin tight and youthful. As they break down, fine lines, wrinkles and even sagging develop. 

If you can’t change your sources of stress, you can still fight back with the right treatments.

Options for Treating Stress Wrinkles

Pretty much any wrinkle or anti-aging treatment can help battle these lines. However, if you are looking for the best of the best, there are four options we suggest you keep in mind.

BOTOX

If you are noticing your lines developing specifically in expression areas that you associate with feeling stressed, BOTOX might be all you need. It temporarily paralyzes the muscles so you can no longer form the scowl that’s giving you those wrinkles.

Dermal Fillers

Collagen and elastin don’t just keep the skin tight; they create volume. Dermal filler can be used to replace lost volume and keep the skin plump.

Microneedling

This treatment uses a series of very small needles to make microscopic injuries to the skin. Sounds odd but what this does is trigger the healing response, which generates new collagen and elastin. 

Lasers

Whether you get laser skin resurfacing or laser skin tightening, both can reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. We offer both Pixel and CO2 laser treatments, which stimulate collagen and elastin production so that both surface and underlying skin layers are enhanced. This provides a longer-lasting way to smooth the wrinkles you are seeing in the mirror.

Ready to schedule the right treatment for your skin? Talk to Dr. Kramer! Schedule your appointment by calling us at 208-344-4900 or fill out the contact form.