From forehead wrinkles to bunny lines: How to de-age your face without surgery

Forehead wrinkles are usually the first to develop due to repeated facial expressions and a natural decline in collagen production as we age. Adding retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) into your skincare regimen can be a great way to address these lines, as they help stimulate collagen production, which plumps and thickens the skin to reduce the depth of wrinkles. As well as this, retinoids can exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells for a brighter, smoother complexion. If you’re new to retinoids, start with a lower concentration and gradually increase as your skin tolerates it. Book in for a consultation with a qualified dermatologist first to determine the best type of retinoid for your specific needs and how to incorporate it in your skincare routine. For immediate and noticeable results, Botox remains one of the most popular non-surgical options. It relaxes the muscles that cause wrinkles, offering the most effective way to get rid of forehead wrinkles without the need for surgery.

Cost typically ranges from £150 to £350 for Botox treatments, with results lasting 3-6 months and minimal recovery time of 24-48 hours.

Bunny lines are the small wrinkles that appear on the sides of your nose when you smile or laugh (not to be confused with glabellar lines or “11s” between the eyebrows). Once developed, they can be difficult to manage without Botox or Dermal Fillers. However, facial massages are a great way to release muscle tension and reduce the appearance of these lines over time. My recommendation would be a Classic Face Lift Massage from a trained therapist who knows how to target problem areas, such as bunny lines. When done regularly, facial massages can prevent these fine lines from deepening. Pair facial massages with mindfulness techniques to consciously relax your facial expressions. Being aware of when you’re furrowing your brow and taking a moment to release the tension can make a significant difference over time. At Oblique, you can also opt for Endospheres Face therapy which tightens bunny lines and enhances the overall contour of the face. This is a gentle, non-invasive procedure which stimulates collagen production and reverses the signs of ageing for a healthy, glowing complexion.

A 2023 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that regular facial massage combined with targeted treatments can reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles by up to 30% over three months.

These vertical lines between the eyebrows, often called “11s” or frown lines, develop from repeated expressions like concentrating or squinting. They can create a tired or angry appearance even when your face is at rest. Botox is particularly effective for this area, with results typically lasting 3-4 months. For those seeking alternative options, specialised facial exercises that train muscles to relax can provide modest improvements over time. Prescription-strength retinoids applied to this area can also help reduce the depth of these lines by promoting collagen production. At-home options include facial massage using upward strokes with facial oil to temporarily soften the appearance of these lines.

The skin underneath the eyes is much thinner and extremely delicate, which is why it is amongst the first areas to show signs of ageing. Whether it’s puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines, under-eye concerns tend to become more noticeable as time goes by. To combat these issues, use eye creams containing caffeine to significantly reduce puffiness and dark circles. For fine lines, opt for products with retinol or peptides to boost collagen and smooth the skin. A quick, easy fix for puffiness is cold therapy — using ice globes or cold under-eye patches to refresh and even out the skin tone. Staying well-hydrated is important too, as dehydration can worsen the appearance of dark circles and fine lines.

For more professional solutions, consider hyaluronic acid fillers for tear troughs (from £350, lasting 6-12 months) or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatments that use your body’s natural healing factors to rejuvenate the area (£350-£450 per session, with recommended 2-3 sessions).

These lines run from the sides of your nose to the corners of your mouth (nasolabial folds) and from the corners of your mouth downward (marionette lines), creating an aged appearance. They result from volume loss and skin laxity. Dermal fillers are the gold standard treatment, instantly restoring volume and subtly lifting the face. For those preferring non-injectable options, facial massage using upward strokes can temporarily improve appearance, while daily use of peptide-rich creams or serums helps stimulate collagen over time. Treatments like radiofrequency or ultrasound therapy provide longer-lasting results by triggering collagen production within deeper skin layers.

While aging is inevitable, how we address its visible signs is entirely within our control. Whether you choose professional treatments or at-home remedies, consistency is key. Remember that combining approaches like good skincare habits, professional treatments, and lifestyle factors such as hydration and sun protection will yield the most noticeable results. Book a personalised consultation at Oblique House of Aesthetics to develop a tailored plan for your specific concerns and skin type. With the right approach, you can achieve natural-looking rejuvenation that enhances your confidence at any age.