Is this scleroderma and would filler be a good treatment option? (photo)

Question

Hello! Thanks for reviewing my post. As you may be able to see in the photo (right side) I have developed a line from my hairline down to the brow level. My muscles are very active there and my bone structure has always been the same, however, at 32 some lines got more visible. The skin is soft, I use retinol and moisturizers as prescribed, but I am concerned this is scleroderma. Does it seem like it? Do I need medication or fillers? No signs of discoloration or baldness so far for over a year.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns and the photo. Based on what you’ve described—soft skin, no discoloration, no hair loss, and a line that appears mainly with muscle movement—this does not appear to be scleroderma. Scleroderma typically presents with skin tightening, thickening, color changes, and sometimes hair or nail involvement, which you don’t have.

What you’re seeing is most likely a dynamic line caused by muscle movement, sometimes called an expression line. These can become more noticeable over time, even with good skincare.

Treatment options:

Fillers: Can help soften the line if you want it less visible at rest, but the effect may be limited if the line appears mainly with expression.

Neuromodulators (Botox/Dysport): If the line is caused by active muscles, small, targeted injections can reduce movement and soften the line while keeping expressions natural.

Skincare: Retinol and moisturizers are excellent for maintaining skin quality, but they won’t fully erase a line caused by muscle contraction.

At your age and with your skin type, this is a cosmetic concern rather than a medical one, and it is manageable with the right combination of treatments without needing medication.

Is this scleroderma and would filler be a good treatment option? (photo)

Answers (1)

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