[Jolisse]

Ever since I was a teen, I had a fear of getting wrinkles, Now that I'm older, I'm noticing wrinkles on my face. This causes extreme anxiety and panic.
I look in the mirror and get physically sick at what I see.
I need to deal with this, but don't know how. Been to therapy and on medication, but nothing seems to work.
I can't keep dealing with this horrendous fear, it's ruining my life and I need help!

[sideblinded]

(((Jolisse)))

I hear you. I am getting older as well. I am sorry that this is causing you so much distress. It does sound like a phobia. I think I have a few phobias unrelated to this so I understand the anxiety that it causes. If you don't have the money to get treatments or surgery (and most people don't) then you are doing what you should do. Therapy and medication is good.

The only one who really notices the wrinkles is you. I can assure you that other people just don't notice the things that bother us so much. They are worried about their own worries. I think wrinkles show:

Maturity
Hard work
Being wise
Experience

I wish I could have helped you more. Be proud that you have all of this!

[Fiona Alianor]

I know, I'm 57 and have deep frown lines and I'm starting to get wrinkles around my eyes and mouth. I try to take care of my skin, use moisturizer and stay out of the sun, but sometimes I'm shocked when I look in the mirror. On the other hand, I'm glad that I've lived this long! We tend to think youth and beauty are so important, but age brings maturity and wisdom, and a broader perspective. Sideblinded is right, other people don't really pay attention to the things that we think are so glaring and bothersome. When they look at you, they see your whole self, your personality, not small details on the surface. I hope this helped, even a little bit! Hugs!