Everyone knows about the common factors that cause your skin to wrinkle. Aging, repeated facial expressions and the sun all contribute to facial wear and tear and, ultimately, a wrinkled or lined appearance. However, researchers are finding that sleep may be an even more serious culprit. Below Dr. Ary Krau shares some of his own observations about sleep wrinkles and treatment options.
Sleeping and Wrinkles
During sleep, especially sleeping on the stomach or side, gravity can cause what is known as facial compression, which in turn can cause wrinkles and possibly skin stretching. Sleep wrinkles are actually different from expression wrinkles in terms of their origin, location and directionality. In fact, researchers believe that sleep wrinkles are different enough from “regular” wrinkles that a wrinkle classification system should be created.
The facial distortion created by the forces from sleep contributes to the overall aging of the face. Sensitive facial tissue is prone to stretching from physical reactions known as shear compression and tensile mechanical force. The overall result is that sleep wrinkles are less predictable and inherently different from facial wrinkles.
Treating Wrinkles with Botox
One option for dealing with sleep wrinkles is to undergo Botox treatment. Botox involves targeted injections of a protein derived from the Botulism toxin that has the ability to freeze and paralyze certain muscles. The injections temporarily relax the facial muscles in a specific area and the overlying wrinkles become less noticeable. The effects of Botox can be seen within a week of treatment and last up to six months, at which point repeat treatment is needed.
Treating Wrinkles with Juvederm
Juvederm is an injectable dermal filler used to smooth moderate to severe facial wrinkles. Juvederm is particularly well suited for several common types of wrinkles, including:
- Crow’s feet (wrinkles around the corners of the eyes)
- Nasolabial folds (deep folds between the cheek and nose)
- Marionette lines (wrinkles between the nose and the outer corners of the mouth)
Dr. Krau looks forward to discussing sleep-related wrinkles and the possible solutions with you. Please call (305) 861-6881 to schedule an appointment with the doctor.