Surgery Plastic Surgery How to Prevent and Treat Rhytids or Wrinkles By Natalie Kita Updated on February 07, 2022 Medically reviewed by William Truswell, MD Medically reviewed by William Truswell, MD Facebook LinkedIn William Truswell, MD, is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngology (head and neck) surgeon. He is president of the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and treats skin cancer patients as part of his practice. Learn about our Medical Expert Board Print A rhytid, (ri′tid), is a wrinkle in the skin. The skin is composed of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and subcutaneous fat. Each layer of skin is affected by aging, genetics, and environmental factors. And wrinkles can result from these factors. 1:28 Watch Now: 6 Tips for Preventing Wrinkles Your Skin The layers of skin tend to become thinner when tissue production slows with aging, making the skin susceptible to changes in appearance, as well as damage. The epidermis, the top layer of the skin, produces melanin, which gives the skin its color. It also protects the skin against environmental toxins, with special cells known as keratinocytes. Some parts of the body, like the soles of the feet, have a thicker epidermis. The eyelids have a thinner epidermis.The dermis, the middle layer of skin, has many functions. It is the source of sweat glands and skin sensation. It also grows hair and produces oil to keep skin smooth. It is the location of blood vessels that feed the skin and remove toxins.The subcutaneous fat layer is the bottom layer of skin. With its special connecting tissue, it attaches the dermis to muscles and bones. It supports the function of nerve cells and blood vessels. It is also responsible for controlling the temperature of the body and padding muscles and bones to protect them from bumps and falls. Thinner skin that has less collagen and fat cells begins to show lines and wrinkles. Causes of Wrinkles Wrinkles are caused by a combination of different conditions. Some people are genetically predisposed to develop wrinkles, and there are also other causes. Some causes of wrinkles include: AgingUltraviolet light from sun exposure and tanning bedsExposure to harmful substances for a prolonged period of timeSmokingPoor nutritionDehydration The constant contraction of facial muscles, such as squinting or smiling can also lead to the development of fine lines and wrinkles. With thinner skin, the muscles are no longer able to maintain the skin's flexibility and retain its shape. Types of Wrinkles Static wrinkles are seen with the face totally at rest. Dynamic wrinkles become evident when we smile, frown, or squint, Paul Burns/DigitalVision/Getty Images Treatment of Rhytids For most people, fine lines and wrinkles on the skin are part of the aging process. Wrinkles appear as creases or folds in the skin. They are seen on the face, neck, hands, and other parts of the body. Some people are bothered by the way their wrinkles look. Static Wrinkles Static wrinkles respond to the treatments listed below: Laser resurfacing treatments Chemical peels Microdermabrasion Injectable dermal fillers Injectable neuromodulators Micro-needling When they are applied to the skin, lasers are laid down in a grid to target the water in the epidermal and upper dermal cells. The water molecules instantaneously rise to above twice the boiling point and are vaporized. New collagen is formed, and existing collagen fibers are contracted, tightening lax skin. There is a healing period of about one week before makeup can be applied. Lasers have been used on the face, chest, and hands. Dermal fillers are injected into the soft tissue. They are used to soften the smile lines around the mouth, and under the eyes to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles. They are also used to increase volume in the cheeks, jawline, and back of the hands. Dynamic Wrinkles Dynamic wrinkles are treated with the neuromodulators such as Botox Cosmetic, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau. Xeomin vs. Botox: Which Is Right for You? Neuromodulators are injected into facial muscles, causing paralysis. They are commonly used to smooth the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes by preventing the paralyzed muscles from contracting. They can also prevent wrinkles from forming on the forehead and at the corner of the eye by preventing the muscles from contracting. Prevention of Wrinkles and Fine Lines Simple lifestyle changes can help reduce or prevent the signs of skin aging. Some of them include: Wearing sunscreen on a daily basisNot tanningMoisturizing with topical creams on a consistent basisUsing over-the-counter products as directedAvoiding products that sting or burnShopping for products wisely, with attention to their ingredientsStopping smokingEating a balanced diet and drinking enough waterReducing stress Following these tips can help prevent or postpone the development of wrinkles or rhytids. If you aren't pleased with the results, consider consulting with a doctor to develop an individualized skincare plan. The 9 Best Collagen Powders of 2023 5 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Naval J, Alonso V, Herranz MA. Genetic polymorphisms and skin aging: The identification of population genotypic groups holds potential for personalized treatments. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2014;7:207-214. doi:10.2147/CCID.S55669 Zhang S, Duan E. Fighting against skin aging: The way from bench to bedside. Cell Transplant. 2018;27(5):729-738. doi:10.1177/0963689717725755 Preissig J, Hamilton K, Markus R. Current laser resurfacing technologies: A review that delves beneath the surface. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2012;26(03):109-116. doi:10.1055/s-0032-1329413 Funt D, Pavicic T. Dermal Fillers in aesthetics: An overview of adverse events and treatment approaches. Plast Surg Nurs. 2015;35(1):13-32. doi:10.1097/PSN.0000000000000087 Satriyasa BK. Botulinum toxin (Botox) A for reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles: A literature review of clinical use and pharmacological aspect. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019;12:223–228. doi:10.2147/CCID.S202919 See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Medical Expert Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit