How to Prevent and Get Rid of Forehead Wrinkles, According to a Dermatologist
Everyone ages, and as we grow older and wiser, wrinkles and fine lines are inevitable. With time, you might notice “elevens” in between your eyebrows, as well as forehead wrinkles and smile lines. And while all of those are signs of a well-lived life, you might find yourself missing your smoother skin—which, believe it or not, can actually make somewhat of a comeback.
From skincare products to injections like Botox and dermal fillers, there are plenty of ways to smooth out forehead wrinkles and other fine lines. Ahead, find our dermatologist-approved tips and tricks to keep your skin looking soft and sleek.
Meet the Expert
Dara Spearman, MD, is board-certified dermatologist and founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Here’s Your Guide to Getting Rid of Forehead Wrinkles
1. Prevent Wrinkles With a Healthy Lifestyle
Wrinkles are caused by a combination of factors, board-certified dermatologist Dara Spearman, MD, tells IPSY. “Environmental factors like sun exposure can cause damage to the skin and decrease collagen and elastin fibers, which can cause wrinkles in the skin,” she explains. “Even without sun exposure, those collagen and elastin decrease with time, making the skin thinner and more prone to wrinkling.” Basically, wrinkles are inevitable—even if you’re on top of your skincare game. Still, using sunscreen everyday can help prevent wrinkles from setting in as much.
“Repetitive movement of the forehead creases the skin, causing dynamic lines in the skin,” says Dr. Spearman. “Over time, those lines—that typically only show with movement—become static lines that are present even when the forehead muscles are at rest.” Botox can be used preventatively so that your muscles don’t crease to begin with,” she says.
Plus, she adds, lifestyle factors such as smoking, lack of sleep, dehydration, and stress can all lead to the early formation of wrinkles. That said, make sure you’re drinking enough water, getting enough rest, and managing your stress—all of which are beneficial for your health, wrinkles aside.
2. Reverse Wrinkles with Products
The good news? Wrinkles that stem from repetitive motion and environmental factors are somewhat reversible. Dr. Spearman recommends using skincare products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and niacinamide to improve hydration and stimulate collagen and elastic growth. She particularly likes the peptide-powered P-TIOX Anti-Wrinkle Serum from Skinceuticals, which enhances skin smoothness and radiance, as well as the Revox Line Relaxer Serum from Revision, which reduces the look of expression lines and uses gamma-aminobutyric acid to help relax muscle contractions. Both products can be used alone or with injectables.
“Daily sun protection is extremely important to treat and prevent forehead wrinkles,” Dr. Spearnan adds. It’s important to find a sunscreen that works for you—we personally like this Classic Lotion SPF 30 from VACATION® INC because of its lightweight and moisturizing formula.
3. Or, Try Out Injectables and Treatments
“A tried-and-true method [to reversing wrinkles] is paralyzing the forehead muscles that cause the creases,” she adds. Botulinum toxin—known under several brand names like Botox, Xeomin, Jeauveau, Dysport, Daxxify, and Letybo—is a type of injectable that helps prevent the muscles from moving. When combined with good skincare products, says Dr. Spearman, these allow for the skin to be repaired and improve the look of wrinkles.
Rejuvenation treatments can also help, she adds. Consult with your dermatologist about what option might be best for you, whether that be microneedling or laser treatment.