Pharmaceutical ointments for wrinkles

The fight against age-related skin changes is not a cheap “pleasure”, because high-quality cosmetics have always been expensive. It’s paradoxical, but in this context, money does not always help keep the skin beautiful, tight and young. Did you know that pharmaceutical anti-wrinkle ointments are much more effective than expensive anti-aging creams?

It’s easy to verify this by visiting a couple of women’s forums with hundreds of flattering reviews about pharmacy ointments that provided a miraculous rejuvenation effect. But how true are they? Are pharmaceutical products a real alternative to quality facial care products? How effectively do they prevent skin aging and aging? It's time to dot the i's.

Pharmacy drugs that help fight wrinkles

Pharmaceutical industry is impressive with the range of available drugs. Some of them are successfully used to combat age-related skin changes. Surprisingly, even cheap pharmaceutical ointments effectively eliminate wrinkles and eliminate the likelihood of their reappearance. This is due to the fact that these products contain substances necessary for rejuvenating the epidermis.

Modern pharmaceutical preparations are rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals and hyaluronic acid. We are talking about the following components:

  1. Amino acids. They activate metabolic processes at the cellular level, which has a positive effect on the condition of the skin.
  2. Vitamins B5, D and A. Presented mainly in pharmaceutical ointments that help cope with the consequences of burns.
  3. Hyaluronic acid. The main component of drugs that affect the deep layers of the epidermis. It restores the skin and eliminates unwanted dryness.
  4. Natural plant extracts.
  5. Zinc. An element actively involved in wound healing and elimination of inflammatory processes.

Anti-wrinkle ointments from the pharmacy are inexpensive, and are as effective as expensive cosmetics and salon procedures. Therapeutic compositions of targeted action provide stable and quick results.

So, what to choose - cosmetic cream or ointment from the nearest pharmacy for 50 rubles? The purpose and scope of the first is obvious. But when they do not give the desired effect, they resort to the help of the second. It is important to understand that we are talking about medications developed to get rid of certain ailments.

Everyone chooses for themselves what they will trust more - expensive cosmetics or pharmaceutical drugs

The use of pharmaceutical drugs is always accompanied by the risk of allergic reactions and unwanted side effects. Their use is an additional responsibility, and therefore it is important to follow the instructions.

List of famous brands

Let's list the most effective pharmaceutical ointments for wrinkles. If you believe the reviews of patients, these products effectively smooth the dermis, eliminate age-related defects and swelling.

The most commonly used drugs are:

  1. "Doctor Petkin" - effective compositions for getting rid of pronounced age and expression wrinkles, withering of the dermis. Domestic manufacturer of pharmaceutical cosmetics.
  2. From Vanessa (preparations from the Liqiuskin series) – restore the structure of the skin, nourish it with useful vitamins and microelements.
  3. TM “Green Pharmacy” – medications that eliminate wrinkles, pimples and acne.
  4. Aven Isteal is an effective remedy in the fight against deep wrinkles.
  5. "ROC" - cosmetics are represented by anti-aging creams.
  6. “Vichy” is a brand that has established itself as one of the best in the fight against age-related changes in the skin. It produces several series of cosmetics.

Cream-corrector for the face Liqiuskin (Liquiskin) from vanessa for wrinkles

It is worth noting that it is important to use all these drugs strictly following the instructions. Otherwise, there is a high risk of exacerbating the problem rather than solving it. The best option is a preliminary consultation with a dermatologist. The doctor will advise and select the most suitable composition, taking into account the desired effect.

Review of pharmaceutical anti-wrinkle products

For many, it is surprising that anti-wrinkle ointments are sold in pharmacies, and are several times cheaper than cosmetic analogues, but provide the same result. Below is a rating of the best pharmaceutical products for the face against wrinkles.

  1. Relief (instructions for use) - a composition used to eliminate problems with hemorrhoids, has also proven to be very effective in the fight against deep furrows on the skin.

Cosmetologists have found that the anti-aging effect is achieved due to the main component of the drug – shark oil. It promotes skin regeneration and restoration at the cellular level. Fatty acids contained in the ointment support the elasticity and health of the epidermis.

Relief will help cope not only with hemorrhoids, but also with deep furrows on the face

Application – with a thick and thick consistency, treat problem areas of the body before going to bed, but not more than once a day. For intensive absorption, it is recommended to “drive” the composition into the affected area with light “pops”. Duration of use – 1 week.

  1. Curiosin is a gel with hyaluronic acid available to everyone, sold in pharmacies. Used to eliminate acne. Has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects.

Hyaluronic acid smoothes out crow's feet around the eyes, intensively moisturizes the deep layers of the dermis, and activates renewal at the cellular level.

Curiosin gel contains hyaluronic acid

The drug is applied in its pure form in a thin layer to problem areas, or used as a base for preparing a mask. The composition is applied to the face, and then “fixed” with moisturizer on top. The effect will be enhanced if vitamins A and E are added to the finished mixture (2-3 drops is enough). Duration of use is 2 weeks, after which they take the same break.

  1. Retinol (retinoic) ointment is one of the most effective pharmaceutical ointments for wrinkles. The main active ingredient is isotretinoin or retinol - synthetic analogues of vitamin A. A deficiency of this vitamin causes premature withering of the skin, making the epidermis wrinkled and flabby.

Retinoic ointment saturates the skin with vitamin A

It is best to apply the product before bed, in the evening. The course of treatment varies from 2 to 3 weeks. Cosmetologists recommend using the ointment from late autumn to mid-spring in order to neutralize the likelihood of sunburn or the formation of age spots. Before use, it is important to consult a doctor about possible contraindications.

  1. Enterosgel is the best pharmaceutical remedy for bags under the eyes. Most often, this cosmetic defect occurs from excessive consumption of salty foods and alcoholic beverages.

Enterosgel is an effective remedy for bags under the eyes

Apply a thin layer to the face in combination with chamomile infusion before bed. In the morning, wash off the composition with warm water. The substances contained in the enterosgel consistency absorb moisture accumulated in fatty tissue and toxins. Chamomile eliminates inflammation. Due to the complex action and regular use, the elasticity of the skin increases.

  1. Zinc ointment is suitable for eliminating skin defects, subject to regular facial care. The main active components of the ointment - zinc oxide and petroleum jelly - are characterized by disinfectant, astringent and antiseptic properties.

The composition is mixed with moisturizing cream in a 1:1 ratio, then the areas where wrinkles are localized are treated. Recommended for use on oily and normal skin. In the case of sensitive and dry skin, it may cause local irritation.

Zinc ointment effectively eliminates skin defects

Effect – activates renewal at the cellular level, prevents fluid loss, restores the functionality of the sebaceous glands.

  1. Radevit - contains a storehouse of substances useful for tissues, vitamins (D, E and A). The main advantage of the anti-wrinkle ointment in question is that it contains exclusively natural ingredients.

The treatment area is cleaned with water and the composition is applied in a thin layer, rubbed into the epithelium with light massaging movements. It is optimal to treat the skin in the evening and in the morning. The maximum duration of treatment is 1.5 months. If used longer, it can cause an overdose of vitamins E and A in the body, which can worsen skin problems.

How does Radevit ointment help against wrinkles?

Effect – eliminates folds and wrinkles around the eyes, smoothing furrows, restores the natural shade of the skin.

  1. Solcoseryl is a product with unique regenerating properties. The basis of the ointment is blood extract extracted from dairy calves. This component is rich in protein, used by the human body to maintain the tone of the dermis. The best option for those with dry skin.

Application – a pronounced rejuvenating effect is achieved when combined with Dimexide (pre-prepare an aqueous solution, maintaining the proportion of 1:10). The skin is cleansed with a solution of Dimexide, and then the base substance is applied to the skin. The duration of the procedure is from 20 minutes to 1 hour. Then the consistency is washed off with warm water. Duration of use – 1 time per month.

Solcoseryl gel is extracted from the blood of calves

Effect – using solcoseryl ointment for just one week, you can get rid of “crow’s feet” around the eyes. The composition affects the deep structures of tissues, saturating them with oxygen, activating collagen synthesis. The skin becomes elastic, silky, toned.

One of the main advantages of Solcoseryl is the ability of the ointment to smooth out scars.

Now you know which pharmacy ointments and balms help against deep wrinkles. We hope this review of the most popular drugs will be useful and help you decide on the most suitable drug.

Action and effect

Pharmacy ointments successfully resist age-related changes in the skin. These compositions achieve impressive results due to the high concentration of active substances and beneficial elements. Since each patient is individual, each specific case requires “its own” drug.

When used correctly, pharmaceutical ointments eliminate age-related skin defects

To ensure that the product does not aggravate the problem, but provides the expected effect, it is extremely important to consult a dermatologist before actually using the composition.

General recommendations

When buying anti-wrinkle ointments from a pharmacy, carefully study the components and composition of the drug. Many substances affect the condition and even the appearance of the epidermis. If we are talking about oily skin, it needs some anti-wrinkle products, but dry skin needs completely different ones. Incorrect selection of composition can aggravate the problem - increasing oiliness or dryness of the skin.

The drugs are used in courses, and not at your own discretion, best of all - as prescribed by a cosmetologist or dermatologist. Effective pharmaceutical ointments are characterized by a high concentration of active ingredients, therefore the duration of their use should not exceed 1.5-2 months.

Any composition is applied only to cleansed skin without traces of inflammatory processes or damage.

Before applying a wrinkle smoothing product, a local test for an allergic reaction is mandatory. To do this, 1-2 mg of the drug is applied to the wrist before bedtime; if in the morning no rash, redness or other manifestations of allergies appear on the skin, the composition can be used without fear. Otherwise, it is better to choose other pharmaceutical products.

Indications and contraindications

Indications for the use of anti-aging drugs:

  1. structural defects of the dermis;
  2. flabbiness and dryness of the epithelium;
  3. violation of the facial oval;
  4. the appearance of facial and age wrinkles on the face;
  5. decrease in the protective properties of the epithelium;
  6. dermatological problems (acne, acne, etc.).

For open wounds, the use of ointments is strictly prohibited.

As for contraindications, it often comes down to the following factors:

  1. rashes on the epithelium, open wounds;
  2. oncological diseases;
  3. problems with the cardiovascular system, blood;
  4. increased sensitivity of the skin.

Procedures and products are used only after consultation with a dermatologist-cosmetologist. Don't risk your own health!

Reviews

Pharmacy anti-wrinkle ointments really help cope with cosmetic skin problems. The best proof of this is the numerous reviews of women who have seen by their own example the effectiveness of the drugs.

Medical expert article

Modern beauty salons and stores offer customers a huge selection of drugs that fight wrinkles on the face, but most of them are not very effective. At the same time, there is another way to help rejuvenate the skin - these are pharmaceutical ointments for wrinkles. This product is quite cheap and can be purchased at any pharmacy.

[1], [2], [3]

Release form

Retinoic ointment

Retinoic ointment is a fairly effective anti-wrinkle remedy. It includes components that help restore skin cells, eliminate inflammation and stabilize sebum secretion.

[4], [5], [6]

Solcoseryl ointment

Since Solcoseryl contains natural components that can easily pass through cell membranes, there is a beneficial effect from the effects of this ointment. Even after short-term use of this drug, some external changes can be noticed on the skin:

  1. smoothing out small wrinkles;
  2. restoration of freshness and healthy complexion;
  3. facelift;
  4. elimination of inflammatory processes.

Radevit ointment for wrinkles

The ointment contains a high concentration of vitamins A, E, and D. With constant use of Radevit, the condition of the skin improves significantly - rather deep wrinkles are smoothed out, and the color becomes fresher.

Heparin ointment

Heparin ointment has effective decongestant properties, which allows it to effectively remove wrinkles and bags under the eyes from the face. Although you need to take into account that deep facial wrinkles cannot be smoothed out with its help. But this drug can make small wrinkles almost invisible.

Ointment Relief

Relief ointment is often used for cosmetic procedures - it eliminates bruises that occur under the eyes, as well as facial wrinkles. It contains components that prevent the appearance of edema and help normalize local blood circulation. In addition, it includes omega-3 fatty acids, which effectively nourish the skin and create a healthy and fresh look. But you need to keep in mind that frequent use of this ointment is not allowed, because as a result the skin will be overdried and may wrinkle.

Hydrocortisone ointment

The action of Hydrocortisone ointment is based on the retention of fluid in the skin cells, due to which it can smooth out shallow wrinkles. A small swelling forms at the application site, which helps hide wrinkles. The ointment does not cause allergies.

Zinc ointment for wrinkles

Zinc ointment can effectively fight small wrinkles. The active ingredient of the drug - zinc - is an excellent means of sun protection. It protects the skin from UV radiation, thereby preventing early aging and photoaging of the skin. Zinc ointment can be used by people with oily or normal skin types, but not with dry ones, as it dries out the epidermis. If you have dry skin, you should mix the ointment with a moisturizer before applying.

Curiosin ointment

Curiosin ointment, which contains hyaluronic acid and zinc, is quite effective in treating wrinkles. These substances give the medicine antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and in addition contribute to the restoration of epidermal cells. Since the drug does not interact with other substances, it can be used in combination with various lotions or tonics.

Calendula ointment for wrinkles

The properties of calendula ointment make it possible, among other things, to use it to rejuvenate aging skin. This medicine is able to fight the external signs of aging - its components smooth out wrinkles, reduce their depth, and also prevent the formation of new wrinkles. That is why calendula is often used in the production of various anti-aging preparations.

[7]

Panthenol ointment

Panthenol ointment also helps eliminate wrinkles. It is able to have an effective healing effect, and in addition removes inflammation from the skin. The use of this ointment helps improve cellular metabolism and increase the strength of collagen fibers.

Ointment with hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is contained in Blefarogel ointment, which effectively eliminates wrinkles. In addition, it contains aloe juice. These components allow the drug to act on the skin of the eyelids, and in addition improve the production of collagen and remove small wrinkles. A thin layer of the medicine should be applied to the upper and lower eyelids in the mornings and evenings.

Apilak ointment

The properties of Apilak ointment promote the renewal of skin cells, as a result of which the skin becomes tightened, wrinkles disappear from it, and the face returns its natural color.

[8]

We see the ointment

Videstim ointment contains retinol, which helps accelerate epithelial growth, resulting in the smoothing of wrinkles. The product also contains vitamin A, which supplies the skin with nutrients and moisturizes it - thus eliminating dryness. And this is very important, since age-related changes depend precisely on the loss of moisture by the skin - as a result, wrinkles appear. Thanks to the ointment, the deficiency of essential substances is replenished, which allows you to restore the skin. This is what allows you to smooth out wrinkles.

Ointment with snake venom for wrinkles

Snake venom is often used in cosmetology to get rid of wrinkles. Local exposure to the poison allows you to smooth out facial wrinkles. The manifestations of such age-related changes in some cases are reduced by 40-50% if such ointments are used for a long time.

Ointments for wrinkles under the eyes

Age-related and facial wrinkles under the eyes can be eliminated by Solcoseryl ointment in combination with almond or olive oil.

You can also take a ripe avocado and mash it until creamy. Mix with any of the above oils and apply to wrinkles. This ointment can be kept under the eyes for quite a long time - up to 40 minutes, but it should not be allowed to dry out.

Another option is to mix Blefarogel ointment with avocado, and also add vitamins A and E to this mixture. The result is a mask for smoothing out wrinkles on the skin around the eyes, which in addition also nourishes and moisturizes it.

Pharmacodynamics

The properties of anti-wrinkle ointments are considered using the example of the drugs Solcoseryl and Panthenol.

Solcoseryl is an activator of tissue metabolism; it is a deproteinized extract of calf blood. The medicine helps improve the movement and absorption of oxygen with glucose in case of hypoxia. The ointment stabilizes the balance of cellular energy exchange, supporting the functioning of tissues during lack of nutrition and hypoxia. Promotes rapid restoration of injured tissues, accelerates the utilization and movement of oxygen and glucose. Under the influence of the ointment, new vessels are formed and blood circulation in ischemic tissues is restored. It also accelerates the process of restoration of the surface layer of the skin or mucous membranes, as well as wound healing. In addition, it prevents the formation of large scars, and therefore it is used after the appearance of fresh connective tissue on the wound until complete healing.

[9], [10], [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [16]

Pharmacokinetics

When Panthenol is used topically, it is quickly absorbed, converted into pantothenic acid. Next, it binds to plasma proteins (mainly albumin, as well as β-globulin).

[17], [18], [19]

Using anti-wrinkle ointments during pregnancy

Ointments such as Radevit, as well as heparin and retinoic ointments are strictly prohibited for use during pregnancy. In some cases, if the required indications are available, it is allowed to use Panthenol ointment.

Contraindications

It is forbidden to use Panthenol if there is hypersensitivity to the components of the drug. Relief cannot be used for agranulocytosis and thromboembolism. Heparin ointment is contraindicated if the patient has ulcerative-necrotic processes, thrombopenia or poor blood clotting. Radevit is prohibited in case of hypervitaminosis (groups A, E or D). Retinoic ointment is prohibited if the patient has chronic liver/kidney diseases or cardiovascular pathologies.

[20], [21], [22], [23], [24]

Side effects of anti-wrinkle ointments

Adverse reactions after using anti-wrinkle ointments include a feeling of skin tightness or burning, which may appear at the beginning of therapy (they often disappear on their own). If there is hypersensitivity to the drug, skin allergies may occur. It is also possible for acne, peeling of the skin, hyperemia, as well as redness and itching.

[25], [26], [27], [28], [29]

Directions for use and doses

Retinoic ointment should be applied in a thin layer to a face that has been previously cleansed of dirt and cosmetics. At the initial stage of treatment, it is not recommended to use the medicine more than 3 times per week. If after performing several procedures no adverse reactions were identified, it is allowed to use the ointment instead of the night cream, but it is necessary to ensure that the total duration of the treatment course does not exceed 12 weeks.

Hydrocortisone ointment can be used twice a day. Before performing the procedure, you need to remove all impurities from your facial skin. The drug must be applied in a thin layer.

Relief is applied to washed and cleansed facial skin in a thin layer. Since this ointment is quickly absorbed, it can be used both in the morning and before bed.

Radevit is applied to the face with massaging movements. The ointment has no restrictions on use, so it can be applied at any time of the day.

Heparin ointment should be used to treat the skin twice a day.

To obtain the desired effect, Curiosin must be applied evenly in a thin layer. It is better to start treatment with areas near the folds of the nose and lips, as well as around the eyes, and then lubricate the entire face. The ointment should be used daily, twice a day, but it is not designed for constant use - after positive changes appear, you need to reduce the frequency of use of the drug.

A thin layer of Panthenol is applied to the previously cleansed face. The ointment can be used at any time, because it is absorbed very well, leaving no traces behind.

Preparing anti-wrinkle ointments at home

You can also make anti-wrinkle ointments using traditional methods.

Chamomile ointment that helps eliminate deep wrinkles. You need to take chamomile flowers (1 spoon) and mix with water (2 cups), then boil for 10 minutes. Next, soak a towel in the warm infusion and apply this compress to your face. Upon completion of the procedure, wash and treat your face with nourishing cream.

Lemon works well against deep wrinkles. Prepare a tincture of lemon and vodka - 1 lemon and vodka (1 cup). This mixture should be infused for 10 days, and then a cotton pad should be soaked in the tincture and applied to the wrinkles for 10 minutes. This method allows you to narrow pores and smooth out wrinkles.

Another homemade ointment consists of chicken yolk, lemon and olive oil. The yolk contains nutrients such as cholesterol and lecithin - they have the ability to smooth the skin. The yolk is mixed with lemon juice (0.5 lemon) and its grated peel, as well as 1 tsp. olive oil. The resulting mixture should be applied to the face and kept for at least 20 minutes. Next, rinse off using a cotton swab previously soaked in milk (it should be at room temperature). This mask helps remove wrinkles and moisturizes the skin.

Egg white ointment with lemon. This mask gives noticeable results after the first procedure. You need to beat the lemon with the egg white, apply it to the skin, and hold it until a feeling of tightness appears - after which the mask should be washed off.

Raspberry anti-wrinkle remedy - wet a layer of cotton wool with raspberry juice, apply to areas of the skin where wrinkles are observed, and hold for about 15-20 minutes. Drying cotton wool needs to be moistened. After removing the mask from your face, you need to wipe it with a dry cotton swab. If you have dry skin, before the procedure you should wipe your face with sour cream, cream, or rich cream. This mask allows you to whiten and soften the skin, cleanse, nourish and refresh it, and improve turgor.

Grapefruit is considered a very effective remedy for eliminating deep wrinkles. To prepare the ointment, you need to mix the pulp or juice of this fruit with 1 teaspoon. sour cream, and add 1 tbsp to this mixture. rice flour with 1 tsp. carrot juice. Apply the resulting ointment to the skin for half an hour, then remove it, rinse with water and lubricate the skin with grapefruit juice, which should be left to dry. To get the desired effect, it is recommended to carry out this procedure twice a week for 1 month.

Tomato has effective lifting properties, so it is often used to get rid of wrinkles. To make an ointment, you need to remove the pulp from it, mix it with sour cream, and apply the resulting homogeneous mass to the wrinkle area and hold for 15 minutes. After this, wash off the mask with warm water.

Corn flour removes wrinkles well. To make a mask, you need to combine it with honey in equal proportions and apply it to the skin. You may feel some tightness while it dries. A completely dry mask should be washed off with warm water.

Ointment with a solution of strong tea. To prepare it you need 1 tsp. rich fresh sour cream, mayonnaise, and sunflower oil. Mix these ingredients, gradually adding 1 tsp. tea. It should be remembered that before carrying out the application procedure, you should wash your face using warm milk diluted half with boiled water. The first layer of the resulting mixture is applied in a circular motion using a cotton swab. After 2-3 minutes, the 2nd layer is applied (only to the wrinkle area). After 15 minutes, the ointment is removed using milk diluted with water.

Honey works well against wrinkles, 1 tbsp. which needs to be mixed with 1 tbsp. flour and egg white. The mixture is applied to the skin and kept for 15 minutes, after which it is washed off with water. This procedure will help smooth out wrinkles and also give the skin freshness and youth.

[30], [31], [32], [33], [34], [35], [36], [37], [38], [39], [40]

Interactions with other drugs

Panthenol helps to activate the process of acetylcholine connection, as a result of which the effect of antidepolarizing muscle relaxants is reduced, and the effect of depolarizing ones, on the contrary, increases. Therefore, if you use this drug, you should discuss with your doctor the possibility of combining it with other drugs.

Relief should not be used by patients who use MAOIs, antidepressants, or antihypertensive medications without constant medical supervision.

Radevit cannot be used in combination with other drugs that contain vitamins A, E and D or retinoids (to avoid the development of hypervitaminosis), and in addition with tetracyclines. The effectiveness of the ointment decreases when combined with glucocorticosteroids.

[41], [42], [43], [44], [45]

What is face lifting and skin tightening? The lifting procedure is designed to tighten the skin of both the face and the entire body. Today, this is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, but also the most effective for skin rejuvenation.

There are dozens of lifting methods. These can be either simpler, non-surgical methods of skin tightening in a salon or at home, or surgical plastic surgery. They all differ in the way they affect the skin.

The main task of lifting is not just to hide, but to remove all imperfections and age-related changes in the skin. Using such procedures you can achieve the following results:

  1. deep healing and rejuvenation of the skin;
  2. smoothing of superficial wrinkles – facial or age-related;
  3. increased elastin production;
  4. double chin removal;
  5. activation of the production of your own collagen, which will lead to increased firmness and elasticity of the skin;
  6. get clearer and more pronounced facial contours and their design;
  7. remove yellowness and grayness of the face;
  8. get rid of age-related pigmentation;
  9. eliminate dryness and sagging, irritation and flaking, drying out of the skin.

Like any cosmetic procedure, lifting has its own indications and contraindications, and you need to be careful about this.

Face lifting is appropriate in the following cases:

  1. the appearance of wrinkles and folds;
  2. loss of skin elasticity;
  3. sagging skin;
  4. age-related decline and aging;
  5. fuzzy and blurry jawline;
  6. presence of a fatty bag under the chin;
  7. weakness of the subcutaneous neck muscles;
  8. weakness of the fat layer in the chin and submandibular region.

Contraindications to this method of rejuvenation include:

  1. age under 25 years;
  2. allergy to one or several components of the lifting product;
  3. excess weight or cellulite;
  4. rehabilitation period after facial plastic surgery (not earlier than 6 months);
  5. scratches, open wounds;
  6. dermatological and vascular diseases of the skin.

Among the most common lifting methods are the following.

Ultrasound is a non-surgical procedure for those who do not want to “go under the knife.” It is ultrasonic lifting that affects not the surface layer, but the underlying muscular aponeurotic layer, which is responsible for the elasticity of the skin and the firmness of the facial contour.