Frown Lines

Frown lines or ‘eleven lines’ are the creases that run vertically between the eyebrows.

These lines are a sign of ageing that are primarily caused by repeated use of the facial muscles involved in squinting or frowning. These muscles are referred to as the glabellar complex, which is located in the lower forehead and the area between the eyebrows.

In our youth, these superficial lines will often disappear when we stop frowning due to the elasticity of youthful skin and its ability to bounce back. However, as we age, the muscles in our face will start to weaken and take the form of the expressions we commonly use as the muscles will concertina and fold.

Other internal processes that occur through ageing cause the skin to lose elasticity and with it, the ability to bounce back to its more youthful state. This factor is just one of the reasons why these lines can become a permanent feature that betrays our age.

The onset of frown lines can be accelerated when external factors intervene. Sun exposure, smoking, alcohol consumption and consuming a poor diet can make the rate at which collagen and elastin break down more rapid. The structure of the skin weakens much quicker than it would normally and the effects of ageing can then appear earlier than desired.

Frown lines are extremely common and not a cause for concern. You can look to help lessen the development of frown lines through lifestyle choices including a healthy sleep pattern, good diet and exercise regime and a considerate approach to skin care.

If you find your frown lines bothersome, we can easily treat them at The Bloom Clinic with anti-wrinkle injections that help to relax the facial muscles, and leave the area across the bridge of the nose with a smoother more relaxed surface. This helps to eradicate the appearance of frown lines and give you back your youthful, stress-free look.