Why Do People Get Wrinkles on the Scalp?

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Wrinkles are a perfectly natural and normal part of our skin's makeup. Particularly as we get older, we anticipate seeing those laugh lines and other signs of aging in our faces. However, what most people don't anticipate is finding sagging or wrinkled skin on their scalp.

Genetics

One reason that scalp wrinkles develop is genetics. If either or both of your parents experienced scalp wrinkles, you're likely to develop them, as well. This isn't your fault, but unfortunately there's very little you can do to fix these, short of cosmetic surgery.

Sun Damage

Overexposure is one of the main factors in scalp wrinkles (and wrinkles elsewhere, too). UV radiation speeds the breakdown of elastin and collagen, two things that keep skin tight and firm. As these degenerate, skin begins to sag and wrinkle. That's why wearing sunscreen is so important (you can find some hair conditioners that offer protection).

Weight Loss

Congratulations, you've lost weight. That's fantastic, but now you're finding bits of skin that have loosened or wrinkled as a result. That's normal. Your skin had to stretch previously to hold the extra pounds. It will take time for it to contract. Note that the length of time this takes and how much tautness returns has a lot to do with genetics. If your mother never got stretch marks, you have a far better chance of seeing your skin tighten back up.

Age

As a person ages, the skin produces less oil and collagen. The loss of that moisture creates dry, undernourished scalp skin prone to wrinkling, thinning and stretching.

Facial Expressions

Every human has a range of facial expressions that they use again and again. Over time this creates distinct lines in your skin (do you raise your eyebrows a lot?).

Treatment for Scalp Wrinkles

Having a good daily routine of skin care is one of the best ways to deter or decrease scalp wrinkles (other than those caused by genetics). One option is moisturizing with Vitamin E. This vitamin is good for skin and hair, and offers antioxidant qualities to reduce the signs of aging.

If you have a very serious case of sagging and wrinkles, you may need to consult with a dermatologist about more invasive treatments such as laser resurfacing.