Frown Lines

Condition Overview

Are Frown Lines The Same As Forehead Lines?

Frown lines are also known as glabellar lines or “11s” and are different from wrinkles that are often referred to as forehead lines. They are the vertical lines that form between the eyebrows, typically appearing as two parallel creases. These small wrinkles are primarily caused by the repetitive contraction of facial muscles, specifically the corrugator supercilii and procerus muscles, which are responsible for pulling the eyebrows together and creating a frowning expression. Over time, as facial expressions are repeated, the skin loses elasticity and collagen depletes, leading to the development of permanent frown lines and other expression lines such as bunny lines, crow’s feet, or lip lines. This is due to reduced collagen formation and the natural progression of fine lines across ageing skin.

What Causes Prominent Frown Lines?

The main contributing factor to the development of frown lines is repetitive muscle movement associated with facial expressions. This can include expressions of concentration, frustration, or displeasure. External factors such as sun exposure, smoking, and the natural ageing process further contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, exacerbating the appearance of these facial lines. Over time, this leads to more defined vertical lines, character lines, and deeper forehead wrinkles. These changes reflect the cumulative effects of muscle activity and skin ageing, often prompting patients to seek aesthetic solutions.

How Do Frown Lines Impact My Appearance?

Frown lines can significantly impact one’s appearance, often conveying emotions like stress, anger, or fatigue. The prominence of these wrinkles may contribute to an aged or tired look, potentially affecting self-perception and confidence. In many cases they are accompanied by forehead lines, wrinkles that also develop on the upper face and are associated with repeated facial movement. These facial changes may also be paired with nasolabial lines, marionette lines, or under-eye rolls, all of which may be addressed with appropriate aesthetic treatments or a skin rejuvenation programme.

What Are The Treatment Options For Frown Lines?

Individuals may seek various cosmetic interventions to address frown lines, often beginning with topical treatments such as retinoids and collagen-boosting creams. At HAVA Aesthetics, Surrey we can take a non-surgical approach, offering anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers for frown lines. Anti-wrinkle treatment works by temporarily paralysing or relaxing the muscles that are responsible for frown lines, leading to a smoother and more youthful appearance. Dermal fillers, which are hyaluronic acid fillers, are used to fill grooves in the skin, softening their appearance. These injectable gel products are placed with a fine needle and offer immediate treatment results that can last up to 18 months, depending on the type of filler used.

Dermal lip filler or nasolabial line filler may also be recommended when frown lines are part of a broader pattern of ageing in the lower face. Additional skin resurfacing or radio frequency sessions can help enhance outcomes by boosting collagen formation. Other wrinkle reduction treatments like skin boosters or wrinkle smoothing treatments can also be incorporated into a personalised approach that addresses fine lines and improves facial anatomy in harmony with other areas. In some cases, aesthetics injectables may be complemented with laser resurfacing or other non-surgical treatments as part of a complete treatment plan.

Ultimately, managing frown lines is a personal choice influenced by individual preferences and the desire to maintain a refreshed and expressive facial appearance. At our aesthetic clinic, our team combines Health & Aesthetics expertise with advanced knowledge of aesthetic medicine to deliver effective, subtle results tailored to your goals.