Why do lines and wrinkles appear?
Lines and wrinkles are a completely normal part of life. From our mid-twenties, the skin slowly makes less collagen and elastin — the proteins that keep it firm and springy. At the same time, the skin’s natural cell turnover slows, and it holds on to less moisture.
Everyday factors add up over the years. Sun exposure is the biggest outside cause of visible skin ageing. Smoking, poor sleep, stress, rapid weight changes and dehydration can all play a part, and so can genetics. Repeated facial expressions — smiling, frowning and squinting — gradually leave their mark too.
Different kinds of lines
Not all lines are the same, and that matters when thinking about what might help:
- Expression lines appear when you move your face, such as when you smile or frown, and soften when your face is relaxed.
- Lines at rest remain visible even when your face is still, and often develop from expression lines over many years.
- Fine, crepey lines are often linked to sun damage, dryness and thinning skin.
- Folds can develop where the face has lost volume or support over time.
A careful in-person assessment is the only way to understand which of these are affecting you and what, if anything, is likely to help.
What happens at your consultation?
Your consultation is an unhurried conversation with a qualified member of our medical team. It usually takes around 30 minutes and includes:
- Listening. We ask what bothers you, how long you’ve noticed it and what you hope to achieve.
- Your health. We review your medical history, any medicines, allergies and previous treatments.
- A careful assessment. Your practitioner looks at your skin and face, both at rest and as you move and talk.
- Honest advice. We explain every suitable option in plain English — including skincare, skin treatments and lifestyle changes, as well as the choice to do nothing at all — with clear information about benefits, risks and costs.
- Time to decide. You go home with written notes and time to think. We never ask for a decision on the day.
Who is the consultation for?
The consultation is for adults aged 18 and over who would like professional, medical advice about lines and wrinkles. It is also a good place to start if you have had treatments elsewhere and want an honest second opinion. Some options are not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with certain medical conditions; your practitioner will talk you through anything relevant to you.
Caring for your skin at home
Whatever you decide, the basics make a real difference over time:
- Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 every day, all year round.
- Use a gentle cleanser and a moisturiser suited to your skin type.
- Consider evidence-based skincare, such as vitamin C in the morning and a retinol product at night — your practitioner can advise what suits you.
- Don’t smoke, protect your sleep and stay well hydrated.
Our promise. We give honest, balanced advice. If we don’t think anything is likely to help, we’ll tell you. Individual results of any treatment vary.