Lines appearing on the forehead: what to know

Forehead lines are creases across the forehead that become more visible when the eyebrows lift or the face is expressive. Over time, some remain visible when the face is relaxed as the skin becomes less able to spring back. Dryness, smoking, sun exposure and individual skin structure can make texture more noticeable.

The lines themselves are usually a cosmetic concern, but a sudden new crease with facial weakness, numbness, confusion or severe headache is different and needs urgent medical assessment. A clinician can distinguish ordinary [Wrinkles](/symptoms/wrinkles/) from a rash, scar or another skin change.

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, shade, sunglasses and a moisturiser can help limit further sun-related texture change. Avoid tanning and use gentle cleansing rather than scrubbing. A clinician may discuss prescription skin care, resurfacing or an injectable treatment according to line depth, movement and your preferences.

Botulinum toxin injections reduce selected muscle activity and may soften movement-related forehead lines; they require assessment of facial balance and injection safety. Results and suitability vary, so treatment should be provided by a qualified clinician. Explore [Botox](/treatments/injectables/botulinum-toxin-injection/) for more detail.

Book a routine assessment if lines change quickly, are accompanied by scaling, bleeding, persistent redness, a firm spot or a non-healing area. Seek urgent care for a sudden facial droop, speech difficulty, weakness, confusion or severe headache rather than treating the change as a cosmetic issue.

Ask whether the lines are dynamic or present at rest, what is contributing to them, and which options suit your skin and facial movement. Discuss expected changes, possible temporary effects, aftercare, and how to protect the area from ultraviolet exposure.