What causes vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows, and how to deal with them?

Sep 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, vertical lines between the eyebrows are mainly caused by frequent frowning, aging, dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, and localized scleroderma. Patients can choose appropriate treatments such as lifestyle adjustments, medication, or surgical intervention based on their specific conditions. In daily life, it is important to reduce unfavorable facial habits, avoid frequent frowning, and maintain proper skin hydration and sun protection to preserve the skin barrier.

Under normal circumstances, the main causes of vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows include frequent frowning, aging, dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, and localized scleroderma. Depending on their specific condition, patients may improve the appearance through general management, medication, or surgical treatment. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Frequent Frowning

Long-term habitual frowning leads to repeated contraction of the muscles between the eyebrows, causing collagen fibers to break and forming dynamic vertical wrinkles. Consciously reducing frowning, along with gently massaging the area during free time, can promote local blood circulation and relieve muscle tension.

2. Aging

With age, the dermis loses collagen and elastic fibers, reducing skin support. This causes the skin between the eyebrows to sag and gradually form static vertical wrinkles. Daily use of skincare products containing vitamin C and retinol, along with proper sun protection when outdoors, can help delay skin aging.

3. Dry Skin

Reduced sebaceous gland secretion or dry environments can lead to dehydration of the skin between the eyebrows, resulting in rough stratum corneum and more noticeable wrinkles. After cleansing with a gentle facial wash each day, apply a moisturizing lotion or cream. Using a humidifier indoors helps maintain an appropriate humidity level.

4. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Excessive sebum production triggers inflammation in the skin between the eyebrows. Inflammatory irritation damages the skin barrier, deepens existing lines, and is often accompanied by flaking and redness. Under medical guidance, topical medications such as tacrolimus ointment, pimecrolimus cream, or ketoconazole cream may be used. Avoid frequent scratching and reduce intake of spicy and greasy foods.

5. Localized Scleroderma

Excessive collagen deposition in the local skin causes the area between the eyebrows to become hard and thickened, leading to depressed vertical wrinkles and reduced skin elasticity. Under medical supervision, oral medications such as methotrexate tablets, cyclophosphamide tablets, or prednisone tablets may be prescribed. If drug treatment is ineffective, dermabrasion surgery may be performed to improve appearance. The wound should be kept clean after surgery.

In daily life, it's important to minimize不良 facial habits and avoid frequent frowning; maintain skin hydration and sun protection to preserve the skin barrier; eat a balanced diet rich in collagen-boosting foods; maintain regular sleep patterns and avoid staying up late; and seek timely medical care for any skin inflammation to prevent worsening of the condition.