Wrinkles can be removed medically

Aug 24, 2008

HAVE you noticed wrinkles on your face and sagging skin on various body parts? To some, these are features to be proud of, but to many they are a disgrace especially the middle-aged.

By Robert Zavuga

HAVE you noticed wrinkles on your face and sagging skin on various body parts? To some, these are features to be proud of, but to many they are a disgrace especially the middle-aged.


In today’s affluent society, youth and attractiveness are rewarded. Good looks are important in job success, personal relationships, social interactions and business transactions. Most adults, therefore, fear old age.

This phobia manifests in the purchase of expensive cosmetic products. In their attempt to fight these age-reflecting features, many consumers expose themselves to skin cancer and burns.

Many patients are unaware that wrinkles can be medically removed. They are also too embarrassed too ask. Dr. Fred Kambugu, a dermatologist at Kampala Skin Centre, says he rarely receives patients with complaints about wrinkles and aging skin.

Sarah Namukasa, 52, is hesitant: “How would I explain that I want my wrinkles off my face? I would rather let nature take its course.”

What are wrinkles?
They are creases in the skin. They occur as a result of the following factors.

Facial movements
These include smiling widely, squinting, whistling and smoking.

Natural force of gravity
Gravity is the force that pulls objects downward. It creates jowls (a fold of flesh that hangs down the lower jaw) and bags around the eyes.

Sunshine
The sun has ultraviolet rays which can cause the skin to lose its elasticity and form wrinkles.

Weight reduction
Rapid weight loss causes reduction in firmness of the skin.

Sleep lines
Sleeping face down pushes one’s face against resistance and this results in creation of lines which develop into wrinkles.

Can wrinkles be prevented?
Although wrinkles are part of the natural course of aging, they can be minimised. Avoiding direct sunshine by wearing protective clothing, hats and sun glasses is one obvious way of avoiding wrinkles.

Exaggerated facial expressions which cause frown lines, smile lines and smokers’ furrows can be modified or completely avoided. In addition, sleeping habits like lying face down should be avoided.

Since weight loss causes reduction of fat underneath the skin surface, it is advisable to lose weight steadily other than instantly.

Medical literature suggests that wrinkles cannot be removed or prevented using cosmetics and anti-aging creams.

However, cosmetics act as moisturisers and make the skin soft. Many medical treatments are available for removal of wrinkles that range from medical skin application creams to surgical techniques.

It is advisable to seek advice from a dermatologist before undergoing any of the treatments.

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