Scowl Wrinkles 101: Everything You Need to Know About Forehead Wrinkles

Eyebrow lines, those pesky fine lines and wrinkles that collect between the eyebrows, are an inevitable part of aging. But why do they appear, and is there a way to smooth out the appearance of these stubborn wrinkles? To find out, we reached out to a plastic surgeon, a Skincare.com consultant, and a SkinCeuticals representative. Dr. Peter Schmid. Ahead, we will discuss what exactly causes wrinkles and how they can be prevented. 

WHAT ARE FROWN LINES?

Eyebrow wrinkles are, in fact, wrinkles on the forehead, just above the eyebrows. These deep-set remnants of furrowed brows evoke the persistent appearance of unease or displeasure often associated with aging. American Society for Dermatological Surgery (ASDS). While forehead wrinkles are incredibly common, people often seek cosmetic treatments to avoid the restless look these wrinkles give.

WHAT CAUSES WRINKLES ON THE FOREHEAD?

Wrinkles can be traced back to a variety of causes, from aging to sun exposure to the simple makeup of your skin. According to the ASDS, these wrinkles are primarily the result of age-related wear and tear. This is why as you age, your skin seems less firm and elastic, and your forehead doesn't "snap" into place when pulled.

"Frown lines are caused by the dynamic activity of a group of facial muscles located between the eyebrows," says Dr. Schmid. “This area is called the glabella. Over time and due to our natural aging process, the skin above it loses its elasticity and wrinkles appear, ranging from soft to deep vertical lines between the eyebrows.”

It is also true that frequent and exaggerated facial movements, such as squinting and frowning, can exacerbate the appearance of wrinkles by stretching the surface of the skin over time. University of California Berkeley Wellness. Daily muscle movement causes the skin to expand and contract, improving the appearance of wrinkles. 

Another likely culprit is the sun. UV rays tend to hasten the visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and lines on the face. Mayo Clinic.

CAN WRINKLES BE PREVENTED?

As with any anti-wrinkle regimen, the best offense is always a good defense. Although it is difficult to completely get rid of wrinkles, over time, their appearance can be reduced with the help of careful skin care. Focus on hydration: Water, moisturizer, and a good face cream containing a broad-spectrum sunscreen can go a long way in keeping skin looking supple. American Academy of Dermatology offers.

If you notice that your fine lines are already deepening, there are ways to help get rid of more visible creases. “It is possible to help prevent deepening of wrinkles by using proactive measures such as safety glasses, sunscreen, a good skincare regime, and a low-stress lifestyle,” says Dr. Schmid. Other options may include microneedling, chemical peels, fractional laser resurfacing, fillers, and more.

Also, don't forget to smile: a soft, relaxed facial expression is more pleasant and doesn't cause forehead wrinkles.

THE IDEAL ANTI-FROWN LINE PROGRAM

 A prevention plan is always better than a treatment plan, and it starts with daily skin care. “A good skin care regimen is always the key to combating the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Dr. Schmid. "A synergistic combination of topical vitamin C products such as SkinCeuticals Serum 15 AOX+, Amplifier GK и AOX+ eye gel in conjunction with Physical Fusion UV Protection SPF 50 Sunscreen can help restore healthy-looking skin while reducing fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, skin elasticity, and loss of firmness.”

SKINCEUTICALS SERUM 15 AOX+

This daily antioxidant serum contains vitamin C and ferulic acid and can help neutralize free radical damage that can lead to premature signs of aging. It helps improve the overall appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and is suitable for all skin types.

SkinCeuticals Serum 15 AOX+. MSRP $102.00. 

SKINCEUTICALS HA INTENSIFIER

One of the biggest contributing factors to most types of wrinkles is skin dehydration, which is why it's important to use moisturizers. This is where the SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier comes in: this corrective serum contains a multi-functional formula enriched with pure hyaluronic acid, Pro-Xylane and purple rice extract and can help support your skin's natural hyaluronic acid reservoir. The result is a minimization of the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a smoother and improved complexion.

SkinCeuticals HA Booster. MSRP $98.00.

SKINCEUTICALS AOX+ EYE GEL

The skin around the eyes is much more delicate than the rest of the face, so it needs special attention. SkinCeuticals AOX+ Eye Gel is just what you need to give your undereye extra comfort. This serum comes in gel form and contains pure vitamin C, phloretin, ferulic acid and plant extracts.

SkinCeuticals AOX + Eye Gel. MSRP $95.00.

SKINCEUTICALS PHYSICAL FUSION UV DEFENSE SPF 50

UV rays can not only cause premature signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines, but can also lead to sun damage and even some skin cancers. That's why you should always protect your skin with a sunscreen like this one from SkinCeuticals. This sunscreen contains broad spectrum SPF 50 to protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays while enhancing your natural skin tone. Since sunscreen alone cannot fully protect your skin, be sure to take additional protection measures such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding peak sun hours.

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Protection SPF 50. MSRP $34.00.