Medical Health Encyclopedia

Wrinkles

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Wrinkles

Definition:

Wrinkles are visible creases in the skin.

Considerations:

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Most wrinkles are associated with aging changes in skin. Aging of the skin and related structures (hair and nails) is a natural process. Nothing can be done to decrease the rate of skin aging, but many environmental factors will increase the rate.

Frequent exposure to sunshine results in premature skin wrinkling and increased pigmentation (liver spots). It also increases the likelihood of skin cancer. Exposure to cigarette smoke is another environmental factor that increases wrinkling of the skin.

Besides wrinkles, other skin changes may include liver spots (pigmented areas). The hair and nails also change with aging, including graying of the hair, hair loss, and brittleness of the nails.

Common Causes:

Wrinkles can develop because of:

• Sun exposure
• Normal aging changes in the skin
• Smoking

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