Wrinkling up in concentration: the problems with 'computer face'

 

  I spend about 8 hours every day in front of a computer and have |heard that computer screens can harm the skin. How can I save my skin without giving up my work?

 

A few years ago, a British doctor published an article stating that a growing number of women were developing something called “computer face”, meaning saggy jowls, turkey neck and deep-set wrinkles on their forehead and around their eyes, caused by working long hours in front of a computer screen. 

He explained that some people frown or squint when they are concentrating and this habit can lead to frown lines. Some people can develop saggy jowls from sitting in one position for so long. If you spend most of the time looking down, the neck muscles shorten and go saggy, eventually giving you a double chin. 

A simple solution is to put a mirror near your computer so you can check whether you are frowning while you work. Sometimes, we frown without knowing it. 

Botulinum toxin is a good option for dealing with frown lines caused by computer face as it is effective in treating lines between the eyebrows, on the forehead, and crow’s feet. Since the lines are caused by overactive muscles from all the staring and frowning, relaxing the muscles is a logical solution. What also comes with spending long hours in front of a computer screen is UV ray damage. However, this is only the case if you are working with a bulky old desktop computer screen and doesn’t apply to the modern LCD or LED ones which do not emit UV radiation. Even small amounts of daily radiation will result in light-sensitivity and ageing signs.

Additionally, when we are lost in our thoughts, we often forget to drink water. An air-conditioned work environment also dries the skin. This is why many office workers experience dry and dull skin, which makes them look older and less fresh than they should. 

To freshen up the skin, there is a new technique called microbotox. This is a subdermal injection of very diluted Botox and affects the sebaceous glands, sweat glands and superficial layer of facial muscles that are responsible for opening the pores. The skin then becomes tighter, smoother and lifted. Those who suffer from excessively oily skin will also benefit from this treatment.

While it uses botulinum toxin just like conventional Botox injections, the concentration is diluted. The results are seen after about a week and can last up to four months in most patients.

Microbotox is injected on a superficial level and does not affect the muscles involved in facial expression like conventional Botox injections. However, it requires expertise in order to target the right muscles. The dermatologist has to be very light-handed since it needs to be done quite superficially. 

While it’s hard to stay away from the screen, there are many things you can do to minimise its effect on your skin. Keep a distant from the screen to reduce exposure to UV rays, and wear sunscreen on a daily basis. Adjust the setting of the screen so that it feels comfortable – small fonts and too much brightness make you squint more than you have to.

 

THANISORN THAMLIKITKUL MD is a |member of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery and certified in dermatological laser surgery. Send your questions for her |to [email protected]