The signs of ageing on a person’s face start to show as early as the end of the second or the beginning of the third decade of a persons life. At first, fine lines start to form between the nose and the mouth, around the eyes and on the forehead. As a result of facial movements that are often repeated, the first expressive wrinkles come into being: laughter creases, brow furrows and crows feet.

Over the years, the skin loses its elasticity, because it produces fewer and fewer collagen and elastin fibres. This results in the weakening of connective tissue causing the skin to lose its tone. The skin becomes flabby, and wrinkles are formed. Due to gravity, wrinkles develop downwards, a phenomenon seen in sagging cheeks and drooping eyelids.

The development of small crows feet around the eyes can be the first signs that our skin is not as youthful and elastic as it once was. There are many different treatment approaches that may be suggested and used by practitioners. These depend on the depth and extent of wrinkles. For additional treatment options for the eye area, see our Which Treatment section on eyes (bags & crow`s feet).

Most younger people who are seeking treatments for the forehead are looking to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles that deepen as we age. These lines tend to be associated with expression, and the way that we animate or use the muscles in our face.

Horizontal forehead lines are formed when we raise our eyebrows, and vertical frown or scowl lines between the eyebrows occur when we are concentrating or if we are upset or angry. There are a number of very effective non-surgical options available for plumping up or minimising wrinkles in this area. For additional treatment options for the forehead and brow area, see our Which Treatment section on heavy brow.

Lines around the mouth often concern people more than lines in other parts of the face. Some women can become especially concerned with bleeding of lipstick into vertical lines around the lips, and the development of deeper lines between the nose and corners of the mouth (nasolabial lines).

There are some relatively simple non-surgical procedures that can significantly reduce the appearance of these early signs of ageing. 

For additional, related treatment options please see our Which Treatment section on facial skin tightening.