What’s the difference between fine lines and wrinkles?

Both fine lines and wrinkles are visible signs of skin ageing. In general, they are defined by their size – short and shallow fine lines might appear first and could be considered “baby” wrinkles, while true wrinkles are more prominent in length and depth. Fine lines generally appear beneath the eyes, but wrinkles and deep wrinkles appear on the forehead and crow’s feet. Over time, fine lines can progress to more noticeable wrinkles and become more difficult to reduce in appearance.

How and why do fine lines and wrinkles form?

Mary factors contribute to the development of visible fine lines and wrinkles. Skin experts acknowledge that 80% of visible signs of ageing are attributed to external environmental factors such as UV light, blue light from devices and pollution. Additionally, as we age, we lose important skin proteins like collagen and elastin, and our natural collagen production slows down. A lifetime of repetitive facial expressions including smiling, squinting, and frowning, gradually degrade the underlying proteins of skin. As a result, the top layers of skin “sink” into creases and appear as fine lines and wrinkles on the face.

How can I prevent fine lines and wrinkles from forming?

There really is no such thing as wrinkle-free skin. Fine lines and wrinkles are inevitable, and you can’t ultimately stop them from showing up. However, you can work to prevent them from forming prematurely. My best advice is to always wear a sunscreen or moisturiser with SPF 30  or higher. Not only does sunscreen help prevent skin cancer, but it's also an important anti-ageing ingredient. Additionally, you should maintain a daily skin care regimen. Consistency really is key, and it’s never too late to start!

Aside from dermatologist treatments, what can I do to address my fine lines and wrinkles?

Similar to preventing premature skin ageing, a consistent skin care regimen including twice-daily cleansing and moisturising with products containing anti-ageing or advanced anti-ageing ingredients can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Just remember that while skin care can help reduce the signs of ageing, it can't completely eliminate them or stop them from forming.

Are there certain skin care steps you recommend for those with mild-to-moderate signs of ageing? What about those with more severe signs of ageing?

Everyone should use a cleanser and moisturiser twice daily, regardless of age or visible lines and wrinkles. This healthy habit will help you have healthy-looking skin over time. If you’re showing mild-to-moderate signs of ageing, I recommend incorporating an age-fighting serum and exfoliation step into your cleansing and moisturising routine. For those with more severe signs of ageing, I recommend also adding a product containing retinol. It’s a star ingredient when it comes to preventing and reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles and can be incorporated into any skin care routine starting as early as your 20s.

And now that we know fine lines and wrinkles are a natural and inevitable part of ageing, what tips do you have for gracefully embracing getting older?

My personal tips are to always adjust your skin care products according to your skin’s needs. As we age, skin becomes drier, and products that worked when we were younger likely need to be adjusted. Make sure you wear sunscreen every day – even when it’s cloudy – and exfoliation is a must to help keep skin smooth. Additionally, a consistent skin care regimen of twice-daily cleansing and moisturising from an early age along with the use of key skin care supplements like serums will help ensure healthy looking skin for life. And healthy skin is beautiful skin, regardless of age!