Wrinkles are usually the first signs of aging skin. Those fine lines and creases on our faces are natural but almost always unwanted. Looking in the mirror and wishing for wrinkle-free skin is something a lot of women do. You can try to reduce sun exposure, sleep better, or use the best wrinkle prevention cream available in the market. But if you want to prevent those lines on your skin, you have to understand what causes wrinkles in the first place. 

What Causes Wrinkles?

Wrinkles are a natural sign of aging. But several factors can cause the early appearance of wrinkles, especially on exposed skin on areas like the face and hands. 

• Age: With age, skin loses its elasticity and becomes thinner & drier. It also starts producing less oil. All these factors reduce the ability of the skin to protect itself from damage, which can cause wrinkles. Also, skin becomes loose and saggy with age which makes wrinkles look more pronounced. 

• UV Exposure: Ultraviolet radiation is known to cause various types of skin damage. But did you know it also speeds up the aging process of the skin? When your skin comes in contact with UV radiation, it breaks down collagen and elastin, the connective tissues of your skin. Without their support, the skin gets weaker and loses elasticity. Eventually, your skin gets saggy and starts to form wrinkles.

• Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking speeds up the normal aging process of your skin. It is because smoking affects collagen, resulting in saggy skin. Alcohol removes moisture from the skin, and dry skin forms wrinkles faster.

• Facial Expressions: Our skin develops fine lines when we smile or frown. This thing happens even at a young age. It is because each facial expression forms grooves on your skin. These lines become more prominent as you grow older. 

• Dehydrated Skin: Dry and dehydrated skin is more prone to wrinkles. It is because skin requires moisture to repair and keep itself healthy. Naturally, dry skin does not retain enough water and, hence, such skin develops wrinkles early.

How to Prevent Wrinkles?

By making small changes in your lifestyle and your beauty routine, you can prevent or minimize the appearance of wrinkles on your skin. Here are some things you can do to prevent wrinkles:

• Moisturize your skin: As you know, dry skin gets wrinkles faster. Including a moisturizer in your daily routine can help your skin retain moisture, which prevents the appearance of tiny lines. You have to use a moisturizer for at least a few weeks to see changes in your skin. Also, drink more water to keep your skin hydrated.

• Sun-protection: Protect your skin from UV rays by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Dermatologists usually recommend an SPF of 30 or higher. Also, you can protect your skin from the sun by wearing a hat or long-sleeved clothes.

• Healthy diet: The key to healthy skin lies in a healthy diet. Studies suggest that some vitamins in our food can promote overall skin health. Consuming refined carbs and sugar is shown to speed up skin aging. Though there is only a little evidence to link nutrition with wrinkle prevention, it is good to consume fruits and vegetables.

• Quit smoking: Smoking can rapidly cause aging skin. Even if you have been smoking for a long time, quitting now can still improve your skin a lot.

• Change the way you sleep: Heard the term beauty sleep? It is what you need. A 2016 study shows that sleeping posture has a connection with the formation of wrinkles. Instead of sleeping on your sides, sleep on your back, then you can prevent the wrinkles formation. You can also use a silk pillowcase as it causes less friction on your skin, thereby preventing wrinkle formation.

• Invest in a wrinkle-prevention cream: Wrinkle prevention creams usually contain retinol, a wonder ingredient known for its anti-aging properties. They can increase collagen production that helps the skin maintain its elasticity. They also help in the regeneration of skin cells, preventing wrinkle formation while also keeping your skin healthy.

Conclusion

Everyone gets wrinkles as they age, but some steps can help you prevent or reduce wrinkle formation and improve the appearance of the skin. By following our tips, you can get healthy, glowing, and wrinkle-free skin!