Wrinkles that appear on our face can be classified in three categories: dynamic (also called expression lines), static and actinic.
Dynamic wrinkles are caused through movement, particularly of our facial muscles. If the muscles are active, for instance when laughing, the skin on top of the muscles moves, too. This initially causes fine lines to form, which later develop into wrinkles and creases. A classic example of dynamic wrinkles are the so-called laugh lines at the corners of the eyes. Other dynamic wrinkles are crow’s feet, forehead furrows and the “elevens” between the eyebrows.
Static wrinkles form on areas of the skin where the subcutaneous muscles slacken, or gravity pulls the skin downwards due to decreasing tissue strength and volume loss. The skin and connective tissue then sage and form these particularly visible wrinkles. The most common types of static wrinkles are the so-called marionette wrinkles, which run from the corners of the mouth down towards the chin. Or the nasiolabial folds between the corners of the mouth and the nostrils.
Actinic wrinkles are caused by external influences, especially excessive sun exposure. They predominantly appear on the face, hands and arms as well as the neck and décolleté.