Facial lines fall into two groups. Dynamic lines appear when we use our expression muscles, such as frowning, squinting or raising the brows. Static lines are visible when the face is at rest. Most static lines start life as dynamic ones: years of repeated muscle movement fold the skin in the same place, and as the skin loses elasticity and volume with age, the fold no longer fully recovers.

Sun exposure, smoking, dehydration and genetics all influence how quickly this happens. It is a normal part of ageing, not a fault to be corrected, and many people choose to do nothing about it. For those who want to soften expression lines, options exist and are discussed at a consultation, where Damien assesses which muscles and areas are involved and explains the risks, expected duration and alternatives.

Some options involve prescription-only medicines, which cannot be advertised in Australia. All cosmetic procedures carry risks, and individual results vary. Cosmetic procedures are not provided to people under 18.

Damien Smith, Registered Nurse (Division 1), Nurse Practitioner. Ahpra registration NMW0001614340.