What are the best non-surgical treatments for wrinkles?

Wrinkles are a natural consequence of skin ageing: over time, the production of collagen and elastin decreases, the skin loses hydration and repeated facial expressions etch lines on the forehead, between the eyebrows and around the eyes. Sun exposure, smoking and lack of sleep speed up this process.

The good news is that there are now several non-surgical options to soften wrinkles, with natural results and minimal downtime. The right choice depends on the type of wrinkle, the area of the face and the quality of the skin. That is why it always starts with a consultation.

Dynamic wrinkles are those that appear when we make an expression (frowning, smiling, squinting) and disappear when the face relaxes. They are typical of the forehead, the glabella (between the eyebrows) and the “crow’s feet”.

Static wrinkles are present even with the face at rest. They result from the loss of volume, firmness and collagen, and are common in the nasolabial folds, around the mouth and on the neck.

This distinction matters, because each type of wrinkle responds better to a different treatment.

It is the reference treatment for dynamic wrinkles of the upper face. Botulinum toxin temporarily relaxes the muscles responsible for expressions, softening the lines of the forehead, the glabella and the crow’s feet. The procedure is quick, done in the office, and you can resume your routine the same day. The effect starts to show after a few days and usually lasts between 4 and 6 months.

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that exists naturally in the skin. Applied as a gel, it restores volume and fills static wrinkles and folds, such as the nasolabial folds or the lines around the lips. It can also be used to deeply hydrate the skin (skin boosters). Results are immediate and usually last between 6 and 18 months, depending on the area and the product.

Instead of filling, they stimulate the skin to produce its own collagen. The result is progressive, appearing over weeks, and translates into firmer skin with better texture. They are indicated mainly for mild laxity and generalised fine wrinkles.

These treatments act on the surface and deeper layers of the skin, promoting cell renewal and collagen production:

• Chemical peels: improve fine wrinkles, pigmentation and uneven texture.
• Laser: renews the skin in a controlled way, with good results on fine wrinkles and overall skin quality.
• Radiofrequency and microneedling: stimulate collagen and help improve firmness.

The number of sessions and the recovery time vary from technique to technique.

• Use sunscreen every day, even in winter.
• Keep your skin hydrated and include actives such as retinol and vitamin C in your routine, with medical advice.
• Avoid smoking and get enough sleep.
• Eat a balanced diet and drink water throughout the day.

Non-surgical treatments are excellent for softening wrinkles and improving skin quality, but they have limits. When there is excess skin or marked laxity, for example on the eyelids, along the jawline or on the neck, surgical techniques such as blepharoplasty, o brow lift or facelift allow more complete and lasting results. Often, the best approach combines both.

At Clínica do Nariz e Face, in Porto and Braga, we assess each face individually to recommend the most suitable treatment. Book your consultation.