Dennie-Morgan lines are creases or folds that appear beneath the lower eyelid, often presenting as a double fold of skin. They are not associated with the natural aging process, but are considered a physical sign frequently linked to inflammatory skin conditions, particularly those involving allergic responses. The appearance of these creases prompts the question of whether they represent a temporary issue or a lasting change. This article explores the underlying causes of these infraorbital folds and addresses their permanence.
What Causes Dennie-Morgan Lines
Dennie-Morgan lines are extra creases in the delicate skin of the lower eyelid, forming due to physiological and anatomical factors. The most significant factor is a strong association with atopic diseases, primarily atopic dermatitis (eczema) and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Individuals with atopy have a genetic predisposition to develop strong immune responses, which manifest as these inflammatory conditions.
Chronic inflammation and swelling in the periorbital area play a major role. Persistent edema, or fluid retention, during active flare-ups causes the skin to stretch and thicken. This repeated swelling and resolution leads to the formation of established dermal folds. The skin also experiences mechanical stress from chronic rubbing or squinting, a common response to irritation.
Continuous inflammation causes a breakdown of collagen in the localized area. This structural change contributes to the creation of the visible fold, which often appears early in childhood alongside atopic dermatitis.
Understanding the Permanence of These Lines
Dennie-Morgan lines are considered established structural features of the skin. While they are not temporary puffiness, their visibility fluctuates based on the activity of the underlying inflammatory condition. The lines are generally persistent and can be retained throughout life, especially in individuals with a genetic tendency toward atopy.
When inflammation from atopic dermatitis or allergies is controlled, the lines may become softer and less noticeable. However, the underlying crease typically remains because it has been structurally set into the dermis from years of swelling and stress. Chronic changes, including collagen breakdown and skin thickening, create a physical fold that does not disappear when symptoms subside.
The depth and prominence of the lines are highly sensitive to the current state of the allergic condition; they appear deeper during active flare-ups and less pronounced during remission. They represent a lasting feature of the skin structure linked to a genetic profile.
Strategies for Reducing Their Appearance
The most effective approach to reducing the appearance of Dennie-Morgan lines begins with rigorous management of the underlying condition. Treating atopic dermatitis or allergic rhinitis is the primary way to minimize chronic inflammation and the rubbing that deepens these folds. A healthcare provider may recommend topical anti-inflammatory medications, such as a weak steroid cream, or oral antihistamines to control flare-ups and reduce irritation.
General skincare practices focus on maintaining the integrity of the delicate periorbital skin barrier. Consistent and gentle moisturizing with fragrance-free emollients helps to replenish the skin’s natural oils and improve hydration. Protection from ultraviolet (UV) exposure is necessary, as sun damage accelerates the breakdown of collagen and can cause the lines to become more defined. Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is crucial.
For individuals seeking to further diminish the visibility of the folds, several medical interventions are available once inflammation is controlled. Prescription topical treatments, such as retinoids, may be recommended by a dermatologist to improve skin texture and stimulate collagen production. Cosmetic procedures can also be considered, including dermal fillers, typically hyaluronic acid, which are injected to smooth out the creases by adding volume beneath the folds. In severe cases, surgical options like blepharoplasty, which removes excess skin, may be suggested as a lasting solution.