lines when I frown or smile
Lines and wrinkles
Lines that appear when you frown, raise your brows or smile are created by muscle movement and soften when the muscle relaxes. Lines that remain when the face is still are within the skin itself and need a different approach, and many people have both.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Munroe, September 2026
what it is.
Dynamic lines are folds created by movement, such as horizontal forehead lines, the vertical "11" lines between the brows and crow's feet around the eyes. Static lines remain when the face is at rest, either because the skin has folded in the same place for years or because it has lost the collagen and elasticity that allow it to recover.
what causes it.
Every expression folds the skin, and the muscles used to frown and squint are among the most active in the face. Over time, collagen and elastin decline, the skin recovers from each fold more slowly, and a line can become a crease. Sun exposure is the largest external cause of this decline, and smoking, genetics and sleeping position also play a part. Dehydrated skin shows fine lines more, which is why they can look more noticeable on some days than others.
who gets it.
Expression lines usually become noticeable from the late twenties or thirties, and earlier in people who frown or squint often, or who have fair skin and significant sun exposure. Lines at rest tend to follow later.
the options.
Including the ones not offered here at Dr Munroe Clinic.
Anti-wrinkle injections
May suit lines created by muscle movement, including forehead lines, frown lines and crow's feet. The effect typically lasts around three to four months. Offered at Dr Munroe Clinic.
Skin regeneration
Profhilo, polynucleotides and microneedling with exosomes may improve lines at rest and crepey skin by improving the quality of the skin itself. Offered at Dr Munroe Clinic.
Filler
Filler is rarely used for a line itself, but deeper folds around the mouth often reflect lost support in the cheek, which filler can restore. Offered at Dr Munroe Clinic.
Sunscreen and retinoid skincare
Daily sunscreen and retinoid skincare are the best-evidenced daily care for lines at rest, and prescription-strength options are available from a doctor.
Lasers and resurfacing
May suit deeper lines at rest and sun damage. Not offered at Dr Munroe Clinic.
what Dr Munroe recommends.
Many plans combine the two approaches: anti-wrinkle injections for lines created by movement, and skin regeneration for lines that remain at rest. Which comes first depends on which lines concern you most, and whether the muscle or the skin is contributing more.
common questions.
What causes the "11" lines?
The two vertical lines between the brows are created by the corrugator and procerus muscles when you frown or concentrate. Over the years, the fold can leave a crease that remains at rest.
Can anti-wrinkle injections improve lines at rest?
They can soften them over repeated treatments, as the skin is folded less often. A deep line at rest is within the skin itself, however, and usually benefits from skin regeneration as well.
At what age should treatment start?
There is no set age. Treatment may be worth considering when lines concern you and they are created by muscle movement. Dr Munroe does not treat anyone under 18.
Does skincare make a difference?
Daily sunscreen is the best-evidenced step for lines at rest, and retinoid skincare also has good evidence behind it. Neither changes lines created by muscle movement.
the next step.
Every plan starts with a consultation: a review of your skin and what you'd like to change, and an honest account of which of these options applies to you.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Tiffany Munroe, MBBS MRCS, GMC 7293952.
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