You have often heard aging woman complain that as they age, they are deemed “old”, but as men age they become more “distinguished.” The findings from a recent study about facial wrinkles can be added to the list of complaints…

A recent article in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal (the official publication of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery or ASAPS) published a study that found women to develop more wrinkles around the mouth area than men do with advancing age.

While dermatologists (and aging woman) have long suspected this was the case, this new study points to the differences in facial anatomy as the root of this discrepancy.  For example, women have fewer sweat (also known as sebaceous) glands in that region of the face. These glands are oil producing and work to keep the skin smooth and wrinkle-free.  Facial muscles are also closer to the surface of the skin in women than the muscles found in men, which may cause the skin to pull tighter and eventually be an additional cause for more wrinkles. Additionally, women have fewer blood vessels resulting in less blood flow, which may contribute to the problem.

Even though these factors may contribute to wrinkling in women, the best way to prevent wrinkles is to practice good skin health. That means practicing safe sun exposure, avoid smoking, and keeping your skin moisturized.

For women who wish to correct some of these facial wrinkles, injections like Botox®, Dysport® or facial fillers, laser treatments, or microdermabrasion can be the solution. Contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta for more information or to schedule a consultation.