Wrinkles are creases and folds that appear in your skin as you age. They are caused aging but may occur prematurely because of external factors such as sun exposure, smoking, alcohol consumption or poor nutrition. Wrinkles that occur from exposure to external factors may be preventable, according to the book "Change Your Looks, Change Your Life: Quick Fixes and Cosmetic Surgery Solutions for Looking Younger, Feeling Healthier, and Living Better." Adopting good skin care practices may keep your skin healthy and wrinkle free.
Sun Protection
After prolonged exposure to the sun, your skin may begin to show signs of early aging such as wrinkles, skin discoloration and rough texture. Collagen, a protein found in your skin, makes it firm and resilient. It also prevents wrinkles from forming in your skin. The sun damages your skin's collagen content. To prevent or reduce sun-induced wrinkles, apply sunscreen to your skin before you leave your home. Sunscreen needs about 30 minutes to be absorbed by your skin, so apply it 20 to 30 minutes before going out into the sun. Protect your skin by wearing protective clothing such as sun glasses and wide-brimmed hats.
Smoking
Smoking tobacco constricts your blood vessels. The blood brings oxygen and nutrients to all parts of your body as well as your skin. When the blood vessels that supply your skin with blood constrict, your skin gets less oxygen and few nutrients. This leads to signs of premature aging such as wrinkles. Reduce your risk for developing premature wrinkles by avoiding secondhand tobacco smoke and by not smoking.
Nutrition
Free radicals are generated in your body from sun exposure and smoking. They are unstable oxygen molecules that break down your skin cells and cause wrinkles. Antioxidants are nutrients that seek out and neutralize free radicals. They are found in foods such as whole grains, healthy oils such as olive oil and fruits and vegetables. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a study reported that people over age 70 had fewer wrinkles if they ate such foods. Eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants may protect your skin from the effects of free radicals. Examples of antioxidants are vitamins A and C.
Cleanse and Moisturize
According to The American Academy of Dermatology, cracks and fine wrinkles can appear in your skin when it is dry. Create a skin care routine that includes cleansers and moisturizer to prevent dry skin. Clean your skin with gentle cleansers, pat it dry with a towel and then apply a moisturizer immediately. Moisturizers help your skin retain water and prevent skin dryness.
Avoid Alcohol
The book "Beauty Therapy--The Foundations: The Official Guide to NVQ/SVQ Level 2," states that alcohol tends to dehydrate your skin and deplete your body's reserve of vitamins necessary for healthy skin, especially vitamins B and C. Dehydrated or dry skin leads to wrinkle formation in your skin. Avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol; this may prevent wrinkles in your skin.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology: Cosmeceutical Facts and Your Skin
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Skin wrinkles and blemishes - Prevention
- "The Wrinkle-Free Zone: Your Guide to Perfect Skin in 30 Days"; James P. Meschino; 2004
- "Beauty Therapy - The Foundations: The Official Guide to NVQ/SVQ Level 2" Lorraine Nordmann; 2007.
- "Change Your Looks, Change Your Life: Quick Fixes and Cosmetic Surgery Solutions for Looking Younger, Feeling Healthier, and Living Better"; Michelle Copeland; 2004
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