Our faces are front and centre in a digitally communication-dependent world—Zoom sessions, selfies, social media stories. And as much as confidence does tend to start from the inside out, no secret is needed about the influential power that making us feel good about our appearance holds. Of the most widespread worries people struggle with, perhaps one of the most universal that particularly shows itself when catching sight of your camera self is the visibility of glabella lines, those vertical folds that show between the brows.
But here’s the good news: these lines, though natural, don’t have to define your look. With the right skincare routine and modern treatments, you can confidently reduce the appearance of your face and face the camera.
What Are Glabella Lines?
Glabella lines, sometimes called “frown lines” or “elevens,” are the vertical lines between your eyebrows and above your nose. They are developed through constant use of facial muscles, for example, frowning, squinting, or furrowed brows during intense thinking. Over time, they deepen and become more pronounced since our skin ages and does not remain as elastic.
Although they’re a natural part of getting older, glabella lines are typically ones that individuals wish to eliminate because they can be an indicator of bad feelings, such as anger or stress. The good news is that there are a couple of good methods to add to your skincare routine to prevent them from developing in the first place.
Understanding the Causes
Before addressing glabella lines, it’s helpful to understand what causes them in the first place:
Repetitive muscle movement: The facial muscles between the brows contract whenever we frown or squint.
Ageing and collagen loss: As we age, the skin produces less collagen and elastin, making it less resilient to repeated movements.
Sun exposure: UV rays accelerate collagen breakdown, deepening existing lines.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking, poor sleep, stress, and dehydration can all contribute to premature skin ageing.
Once you identify the causes, you can adopt strategies to reduce the appearance of glabella lines and prevent new ones from forming.
Skincare Strategies to Target Glabella Lines
While glabella lines are deeper than superficial wrinkles, the right skincare can help maintain skin health, improve texture, and prevent lines from becoming more pronounced. Here’s how:
1. Use Retinoids or Retinol
Vitamin A derivatives like retinol and prescription-strength retinoids are widely recognised for their anti-ageing benefits. They encourage skin cell turnover, boost collagen production, and improve skin texture.
Tip: If you’re new to retinol, start with a low-strength one and apply it at night after cleansing. Use a moisturiser afterwards to reduce irritation.
2. Incorporate Peptides and Growth Factors
Peptide-infused serums help stimulate collagen production and support skin repair. Growth factors, often found in high-end skincare, work similarly and can help reduce the depth of fine lines.
3. Daily SPF is Non-Negotiable
Sun protection is arguably the most important anti-ageing tool. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can damage the skin’s deeper layers. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning—even if you’re staying indoors under artificial lighting.
4. Hydrate Inside and Out
Dry skin can make lines appear more noticeable. Use hydrating serums containing hyaluronic acid and ensure you drink enough water daily.
5. Facial Massage and Gua Sha
Gentle massage using tools like Gua Sha stones or jade rollers can help relax facial muscles, increase circulation, and reduce tension in the glabella area.
Professional Treatments for Stubborn Glabella Lines
Several professional options are available for those seeking more noticeable or immediate results. These treatments can be used alongside a good skincare routine for optimal results.
1. Botulinum Toxin (Botox)
Botox is the most common treatment for glabella lines. It works by temporarily relaxing the muscles responsible for the repetitive movements that cause these lines. In expert hands, it softens the area without freezing expression.
Results: Typically visible within 3–7 days, lasting around 3–4 months.
2. Dermal Fillers
If glabella lines are deeply etched into the skin, dermal fillers can smooth them out by plumping the skin from within. This is sometimes used in combination with Botox for more significant results.
3. Microneedling and RF Microneedling
These treatments stimulate collagen production by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin. Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling adds heat to further stimulate deep tissue remodelling.
4. Laser Resurfacing
Laser treatments target the outer layers of the skin, reducing fine lines, improving tone, and promoting new collagen growth.
Lifestyle Habits That Make a Difference
Skincare and treatments go hand-in-hand with lifestyle. To keep glabella lines from deepening:
Manage stress: Chronic stress contributes to repeated frowning and skin damage.
Get quality sleep: Sleep helps the body repair itself, skin included.
Wear sunglasses: Prevents squinting, especially in bright conditions.
Limit smoking and alcohol: Both dehydrate the skin and accelerate ageing.
Confidence in a Digital World
In today’s screen-dominated world, glabella lines are more noticeable than ever—not because they’re new, but because we spend so much time scrutinising our own faces on video calls and in selfies. It’s easy to become overly critical, but it’s important to remember: everyone has lines, and they’re a natural part of human expression.
However, if your glabella lines affect your confidence, you have plenty of options—from simple tweaks to your skincare routine to professional treatments that can help you look as vibrant and rested as you feel.
Whether you’re preparing for your next virtual meeting, updating your profile picture, or simply wanting to look your best, addressing glabella lines can be a rewarding part of your skincare journey. Start by investing in quality products, adopting skin-positive habits, and exploring treatments that align with your goals.
In the end, confidence is not found in erasing each line—confidence is found in feeling master of how you are presenting yourself to the world. And with some attention and education, you can stand before the camera with true, radiant confidence.