Are Wrinkles Genetic?
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Before & After images are available during consultation.
We all know that one of the best ways to stay healthy and live longer is to choose the right parents – We also know that this is not possible. We are who we are with our wonderful talents and some faults because of our genes (parents) and our life’s environment. So, are wrinkles genetic? The answer is both Yes and No.
In the following article, I will comment on that very question. A question that I am asked almost every day; Do I have wrinkles because my parents have wrinkles or do I have wrinkles because of my lifestyle choices?
1. TRUTH
Genes are very important for determining the way our skin looks and ages. This statement is correct but needs to be understood in context. The way that one’s parents look and age has a great impact on the way an individual looks and ages. Most of us can tell that from watching our parents, grandparents, cousins, and so on. If the skin of the parents looks good with few wrinkles and fuller cheeks – it is likely that the skin of the children will also look good with fuller cheeks into middle age and beyond. The converse is also true – children of parents whose skin age prematurely will likely experience similar problems. At the same time, not all is lost, as a modification to our lifestyle choices can have a profound impact on skin aging and wrinkles.
2. TRUTH
The environment has a great impact on the way our skin looks and ages. This is very important and refreshing as it points to our ability to modify the way we age and the way our skin looks. The way we look in our youth is likely more related to our genes, but the way we look in mid-life and beyond is related to our lifestyle choices. Excessive sun exposure, smoking, lack of good sleep, stress, poor diet, little exercise, and poor, inappropriate skincare all contribute to premature skin aging and wrinkles.
3. TRUTH
Home prescription remedies and office-based procedures can dramatically improve the health of your skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Advances in the prevention and treatment of facial aging have never been as dramatic as in the last few years. The choices available are truly astounding. At the same time, not all of the treatments available are equally effective. I strongly recommend that, if you are considering facial or body rejuvenation treatments, you consult with a dermatologist – the skin expert. Dermatologists are trained in skin functioning in both its normal and disease states. They should be your guide on the skincare and rejuvenation journey.
4. TRUTH
When skin damage is minimal, minimally invasive treatments are frequently all that is required. At different stages in our lives, we may benefit from different treatments. Prevention, with avoidance of negative lifestyle choices, is always necessary and is the best step for all to take. When signs of early facial aging and wrinkles appear, they can be treated with mild therapies, such as retinol creams, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, photo facials (IPL or laser) as well as Botox and filler injections. These treatments should be performed under the care and advice of a physician.
5. TRUTH
When skin damage is more advanced, more invasive therapies may be needed. The choice of treatment modality depends on the extent of facial aging and wrinkles. When such wrinkles are moderate to advanced, we need treatments mentioned in paragraph 4, with the addition of fractional rejuvenation, laser MicroPeel or resurfacing, facial volume rejuvenation, thermage or surgical intervention. Again, these treatments need to be performed under the supervision of a physician.
Aging is a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences. We have a great deal of control over the environment. The lifestyle choices we make give us great power in influencing the way our skin ages and wrinkles. There is plenty of good news and it all starts with better education and knowledge. Seek a professional opinion and stay informed. A better understanding of the options that are available will empower both you and your doctor to recommend what is best at different stages of your life.
The information provided on this website is for Canadian patients only and is meant for information and education that is based on experience and research.
