Fine Lines and Skin Care: Questions to Consider

Cancer Council recommends SPF 50 or SPF 50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, together with protective clothing, a hat, shade and sunglasses. Check local sun protection times and use protection when the UV Index is 3 or above. Sunscreen is one part of sun protection; it does not replace the other measures.

Read Cancer Council’s sun protection guidance for application advice and practical information.

Bring the names of your current skin-care products to an assessment, particularly if you have irritation, sensitivity or a diagnosed skin condition. Ask which products have a useful role for your skin, how to introduce them and what to do if irritation develops. A long routine or a higher price does not establish that a product is suitable for you.

Explain whether your concern is texture, dryness, lines or another change. Tell the practitioner when you first noticed it and about previous procedures or reactions. Ask whether the concern needs medical assessment before considering cosmetic care.

Every proposed procedure needs its own discussion of suitability, expected limitations, risks, recovery and cost. Do not assume a procedure is risk-free because it is described as non-surgical. Ask what can go wrong, how complications would be managed and whether choosing no procedure is reasonable for you.

There is no age at which everyone should start cosmetic procedures. Take time to consider the information and avoid making a decision around pressure to look a particular way or meet an event deadline.

Fine lines develop for many reasons, including natural changes in collagen and elastin with age, repeated facial expressions, sun exposure, smoking and dryness. Some lines are more noticeable when skin is dehydrated and may look softer when hydration improves; others are more established.

• Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+ is commonly recommended in Australia)
• A gentle cleanser and a moisturiser suited to your skin type
• Ask which active ingredients, if any, suit your skin and how to introduce them. Avoid retinoids, including retinol, during pregnancy. If you are planning pregnancy or breastfeeding, check product suitability with your doctor or pharmacist before use.

Products can take weeks to months to show any change, and irritation is common when starting actives.

Depending on your assessment, options may include medical-grade peels, microneedling, laser or light-based treatments, or a consultation about facial lines with one of our doctors. Each has different risks, recovery and costs, none is right for everyone, and some options are only available after a consultation with a medical practitioner.