Patient looking in a mirror admiring aesthetic results

Wrinkles

Lines and wrinkles tell a story, but they do not have to define how you see yourself. When fine lines deepen into folds or your skin begins to show the passage of time more than you would like, our board-certified dermatologists offer refined solutions that soften expression lines, restore firmness, and reveal smoother, more youthful-looking skin. With guided care, you can expect results that appear effortless, natural, and beautifully you.

Understanding Concerns with Wrinkles

Wrinkles form gradually as collagen production decreases and skin loses elasticity over time. Sun exposure, repetitive facial movements, and the natural aging process all contribute to fine lines and deeper folds. For many patients throughout the East Bay, these changes begin subtly, a few crow’s feet here, forehead lines there, but over time, they can affect how you perceive your own reflection and impact your confidence.

When lines begin to make you look tired, older, or more serious than you feel inside, targeted treatments can restore smoother texture and a more vibrant, refreshed appearance that reflects your true energy and spirit.

Potozkin performing an aesthetics treatment on a patient

Common concerns:

  • Fine lines around the eyes (crow’s feet)
  • Horizontal forehead creases
  • Vertical lines between the brows (frown lines or “elevens”)
  • Smile lines (nasolabial folds) and deeper facial folds
  • Lip lines and vertical smoker’s lines
  • Crepey skin texture on the face and neck
  • Marionette lines from mouth to chin
  • Early sagging related to collagen loss
  • Overall loss of skin smoothness and firmness

At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists understand that effective wrinkle treatment requires addressing multiple factors: muscle activity that creates expression lines, collagen loss that allows wrinkles to deepen, and skin quality that affects overall texture. We create comprehensive treatment plans that target all aspects of aging skin for naturally beautiful results.

How Do We Treat Wrinkles?

Our board-certified dermatologists use a strategic combination of advanced lasers, expert injectable techniques, and skin rejuvenation treatments to smooth lines and restore natural softness. Unlike medspas where technicians may perform treatments, our physicians personally perform all injections and oversee all laser procedures, bringing medical expertise and refined technique to every treatment.

Each plan is DermDesigned™ based on your unique skin quality, the type and depth of your wrinkles, and your long-term aesthetic goals. Many patients achieve optimal results through a combination of treatments that address both muscle activity and skin quality.

before and after for wrinkle treatment
before and after botox forehead

Laser and Energy-Based Treatments

Fraxel
DUAL Laser

Fractional laser technology that stimulates deep collagen production and resurfaces skin texture. Fraxel addresses both fine lines and skin quality, improving smoothness, firmness, and overall radiance. Our fellowship-trained physicians have extensive experience using Fraxel to create dramatic improvement with minimal downtime.

CO2
Resurfacing

The gold standard for dramatic wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation. CO2 laser resurfacing removes damaged surface layers while stimulating robust collagen production in deeper tissue. This treatment delivers comprehensive improvement in wrinkles, texture, and skin tightness—ideal for patients seeking significant transformation.

Clear +
Brilliant

Preventative fractional laser treatment that maintains skin quality and prevents early fine lines from progressing. Perfect for patients in their thirties and forties who want to preserve youthful skin texture and delay the development of deeper wrinkles.

Additional Supportive Treatments

Microneedling, IPL Photofacial, and Vbeam may also support wrinkle refinement by stimulating collagen production, improving skin texture, and enhancing overall skin quality when combined with other modalities.

Injectable Treatments

Neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport, Daxxify)

The cornerstone of expression line treatment, neuromodulators temporarily relax the muscle activity that creates forehead lines, frown lines, and crow’s feet. Our board-certified dermatologists perform all neuromodulator injections personally, using precise techniques that soften lines while preserving natural expression, never creating a frozen or overdone appearance.

Dermal
Fillers

Hyaluronic acid fillers restore volume to deeper folds like smile lines and marionette lines, smoothing wrinkles by supporting the skin from beneath. Our physicians use advanced injection techniques to create natural-looking softness and definition.

Sculptra

A biostimulatory injectable that gradually stimulates your own collagen production over several months. Sculptra addresses wrinkles by rebuilding the structural foundation of aging skin, creating long-lasting improvement that develops naturally and can last up to two years or more.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

PRP uses your body’s own growth factors to support collagen regeneration and improve skin quality. Often combined with microneedling or used alongside fillers to enhance texture, firmness, and overall skin rejuvenation.

Additional Injectable Options

Xeomin (another neuromodulator option) and Hyaluronidase (for filler adjustments if needed) may be incorporated as part of your comprehensive treatment plan.

Background texture

Who Is a Good Candidate for Wrinkle Treatment?

Ideal candidates are individuals seeking natural improvement in lines, texture, and facial smoothness without surgery or dramatic change.

You may be a good candidate if you:

  • Notice fine lines or deepening wrinkles that bother you
  • Want smoother, fresher-looking skin
  • Prefer non-surgical or minimally invasive options
  • Want natural results that preserve facial expression and movement
  • Are looking to improve both texture and tone
  • Maintain realistic expectations about gradual improvement
  • Feel younger than you look and want your appearance to match
  • Want to address aging proactively before lines become deep
  • Seek physician-performed treatments for safety and precision

Patients throughout Danville, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, and the East Bay choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology for physician-driven facial rejuvenation that blends science, artistry, and advanced technology for exceptionally natural results.

Dr. Ellis and Dr. Potozkin Photo

Why Choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology for Wrinkle Treatment?

Choosing a board-certified dermatologist office for your wrinkle treatment matters. Wrinkles require precise settings, proper technique, and thorough understanding of different skin types and characteristics. At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology, our dermatologist-led team has the medical expertise to ensure safe, effective treatments while minimizing risks and maximizing results.

Personalized Consultation and Treatment Plan

During your consultation, we will assess your skin type and treatment goals. Then, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan designed to give you optimal results. Whether you’re new to laser treatments or looking to complete treatments started elsewhere, we’ll help you achieve your desired outcome safely and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrinkles

What causes wrinkles to form?

Wrinkles develop as collagen production decreases, fat volume diminishes, and skin loses elasticity over time. Repetitive facial movements create expression lines that eventually become permanent. Sun exposure is one of the most significant accelerators of wrinkle formation, breaking down collagen and elastin fibers. Environmental factors, smoking, genetics, and lifestyle choices also influence how quickly wrinkles develop. Our board-certified dermatologists identify the underlying causes of your specific wrinkles to craft the most effective treatment plan, addressing both the visible lines and the factors that created them.

How do injectables like Botox help with wrinkles?

Neuromodulators like Botox, Dysport, and Daxxify temporarily relax the muscle activity that creates expression lines. When muscles stop contracting as intensely, existing lines have time to smooth and new deep creases are prevented from forming. Our board-certified dermatologists perform all neuromodulator injections personally, using precise techniques refined through thousands of treatments. The goal is to soften lines while maintaining natural expression, never creating a frozen or artificial appearance. Results typically last three to six months.

Which filler works best for deeper lines?

The best filler depends on the specific location and depth of the line. Hyaluronic acid fillers immediately restore structure to deeper folds like smile lines and marionette lines, smoothing wrinkles by supporting the skin from beneath. Different formulations have different consistencies—some are ideal for deep folds, others for superficial lines. Biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra work differently, gradually stimulating long-term collagen production for lasting improvement. During your consultation, your dermatologist will select the formula that fits your anatomy and desired results.

Are lasers effective for wrinkle reduction?

Yes, lasers are highly effective for treating wrinkles by stimulating new collagen production and resurfacing damaged skin. Fraxel DUAL creates fractional injury that triggers collagen remodeling, smoothing fine lines and improving texture. CO2 resurfacing delivers more dramatic results by removing damaged surface layers and stimulating robust deep collagen production. Clear + Brilliant offers preventative treatment for early lines. These treatments refine texture, reduce crepiness, improve overall tone, and deliver results that continue improving over several months as new collagen develops.

How long do injectable results last?

Duration varies by product and treatment area. Neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport, Daxxify) typically last three to six months, with Daxxify often lasting slightly longer. Dermal fillers can last six to eighteen months, depending on the formula and location, or the areas with more movement metabolize filler faster. Collagen stimulators like Sculptra may last two years or more as they encourage natural tissue growth. Your dermatologist will discuss expected longevity during your consultation and recommend an appropriate maintenance schedule.

Is there downtime after laser resurfacing?

Downtime varies based on treatment intensity. CO2 resurfacing requires more recovery, typically one to two weeks of redness, peeling, and healing, but delivers dramatic, long-lasting results. Fraxel DUAL involves several days of redness and mild flaking. Clear + Brilliant and IPL offer minimal downtime with slight pinkness that resolves quickly. Our physicians will help you select the treatment that balances your desired results with your lifestyle and schedule.

Can PRP help with wrinkles?

Yes. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) uses your body’s own growth factors to support collagen regeneration, improve skin texture, and enhance overall skin quality. PRP can be used alone or combined with microneedling (often called “vampire facial”) or alongside fillers to boost collagen production and enhance firmness. While results are more subtle and gradual than lasers or fillers, PRP offers natural improvement that develops over several months and can be an excellent complement to other wrinkle treatments.

Are wrinkle treatments painful?

Most patients experience mild and temporary discomfort that is easily managed. Neuromodulator injections involve brief pinpricks. Fillers may cause slight pressure or stinging, though many modern fillers contain lidocaine for built-in numbing. Laser treatments create warmth or snapping sensations. Our board-certified dermatologists use gentle techniques, topical numbing options, and advanced devices to ensure a comfortable experience throughout your treatment while maintaining optimal results.

Will results look natural?

Absolutely. Our physicians specialize in subtle, elegant rejuvenation that enhances your natural beauty without creating an artificial appearance. Whether using neuromodulators, fillers, or lasers, your features remain expressive and mobile while looking smoother and more refreshed. The goal is for people to notice you look great—rested, refreshed, vibrant—without being able to identify that you had treatment. Natural-looking results require both technical expertise and an artistic eye, which our board-certified dermatologists bring to every procedure.

Which treatment is right for me?

During your DermDesigned™ Consultation, your board-certified dermatologist will assess your skin concerns, depth and type of wrinkles, skin quality, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. Recommendations may include a strategic combination of neuromodulators for expression lines, fillers for deeper folds, laser treatments for skin quality and collagen stimulation, and supportive treatments like chemical peels or Hydrafacial for overall refinement. This comprehensive approach delivers balanced, long-lasting improvement that addresses all aspects of aging skin for naturally beautiful results.

What Our Patients Have to Say

Doctors Ellis and Potozkin

Why Choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology

Patients from San Francisco, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Orinda, Moraga, Alamo, and Blackhawk choose Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology for our unparalleled expertise and results.

We combine the science of dermatology with the artistry of aesthetics to deliver natural-looking enhancements that build confidence. With board-certified dermatologists performing all injections and a comprehensive range of laser technologies delivered by skilled providers, we provide both safety and excellence in a sophisticated yet approachable environment.

Unlike other practices, we complement our advanced treatments with physician-selected medical-grade skincare products and begin every aesthetic journey with our signature DermDesigned consultation. Whether you're seeking cosmetic enhancement or medical dermatology care, our commitment to natural-looking results and excellence ensures you'll receive the highest standard of care in the East Bay.

Visit Us In Danville

Experience world-class dermatology care right here in the East Bay.

Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Contact Us

925.838.4900