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How to Reduce Wrinkles
Wrinkles are an inescapable part of growing old. They are etchings of life experiences, imprints of both laughter and despair lived through the years. Some people wear their wrinkles with pride—as everyone should, eventually. Many others, not wanting to relinquish their hold on youth just yet, would like to delay if they can the appearance of facial lines and furrows that signify their advancement in years. They wish to know the best ways to reduce wrinkles.
How do wrinkles come about? The answer is, of course, age. As people grow older, their skin changes. It becomes drier, thinner, less elastic, and more vulnerable to damage. Because of repetitive facial expressions, grooves are formed under the skin’s surface. These eventually become fine lines or wrinkles on the skin’s surface, because the skin, which is now less elastic, cannot spring back to its former position.
It is impossible to not smile, squint, scowl, frown or laugh, so wrinkles will form in due time. However, it is possible to do a few things to minimize certain facial movements. One can wear sunshades while outside to avoid squinting at the sun. One can also use reading glasses or the correct eyewear to avoid squinting at a page. This is one simple way to lessen wrinkles.
Protecting the skin from the sun is another useful tip to reduce wrinkles. Studies have shown that exposure to sunlight is a common cause of premature wrinkles and sagging skin. Ultraviolet light from the sun accelerates the aging process and breaks down collagen and elastin fibers in a layer of the skin called the dermis. This reduces the strength and elasticity of the skin. As such, everyone should limit the time he spends under direct sunlight, and use sunscreens that have an SPF of 15 or higher. Hats and protective clothing are also recommended when out in the sun.
Another cause of wrinkling is smoking. Smokers often have poor skin tone and texture, possibly because nicotine has a constricting effect on blood vessels, preventing adequate blood circulation in skin areas. Smokers, especially heavy smokers, should quit as soon as possible to prevent premature wrinkles and improve the appearance of their skin.
Moisturizers are also helpful in reducing wrinkles. On dry skin, wrinkles are apt to form more easily. Reduce skin dryness with the use of moisturizers. Be aware, however, that in the long run, moisturizers will not prevent wrinkles. What they do is they help temporarily cover up tiny lines and creases on the face. There too are many wrinkle creams and lotions sold in drugstores, department stores and online shops, that make exaggerated claims of preventing wrinkles or reversing skin damage. At best, they merely moisturize the skin and mask imperfections temporarily. They have not been proven to be as effective in preventing wrinkles as claimed by their manufacturers.
Another simple tip to minimize wrinkles is to get enough sleep at night. Having inadequate sleep leads to the production of excess cortisol, a hormone that causes skin cells to wear down. Conversely, getting sufficient sleep leads to the greater production of HGH or the human growth hormone, which promotes greater skin elasticity, volume and firmness.
Speaking of sleep, studies have revealed that there are certain sleep positions that are likely to cause "sleep wrinkles." These are lines and furrows etched on the face while sleeping that do not vanish when one gets up in the morning. Lying down on one’s left or right side is likely to cause these wrinkles to form on the cheeks and chin, while lying face down are apt to produce wrinkles near the eyebrows. It is then best to lie on one’s back while sleeping.
What one eats is also known to have an effect on the skin and wrinkles. Eating cold-water fish such as salmon is recommended because this food source is rich in protein and fatty acids. Protein is an essential building block of skin cells, and fatty acids nourish the skin, making it fleshy and firm. Soy is also good for the skin, helping to make it firmer and stronger, and protecting it from sun damage. Moreover, antioxidants can help make the skin look clearer and glowing, so fruits and vegetables are another recommended food group for better skin and fewer wrinkles. Also drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep the body, including the skin, well hydrated.
Meanwhile, there are other, medical options for those who want to quickly reduce wrinkles or prevent them from showing. They must consult a dermatologist, and explore a variety of options that include medications, injectables, fillers, skin resurfacing methods, and even surgery.