Oils have been used since ancient times to promote youthful skin. Wrinkles are a natural part of aging, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fortunately, antioxidant-like plant substances such as polyphenols and carotenoids, as well as vitamins found in some oils, may help reduce the skin-damaging effects of free radicals. Several oils are believed to treat wrinkles by moisturizing and protecting mature skin.
Definition
Wrinkles are fine lines and creases around your eyes and mouth. As skin ages, it loses moisture due to the reduction of natural oils that help keep it young looking, according to the Mayo Clinic. Over time, skin thins and becomes delicate and prone to wrinkle. The Mayo Clinic says skin-plumping fat, lying deep under the surface, lessens. This results in loose and sagging skin that has more "pronounced lines and crevices."
Causes
Although aging naturally produces wrinkles, several other factors may play a vital role in their development. According to the Mayo Clinic, genetics is the primary cause of wrinkles. Exposure to ultraviolet, or UV, radiation from the sun is also a major contributor to premature aging. UV rays damage the top layer of skin -- giving it a leather-like appearance -- and go on to destroy deeper layers of tissue, which makes skin more vulnerable to wrinkling, according to MotherNature.com. In addition, the Mayo Clinic reports that repeated facial expressions such as smiling may lead to wrinkles. Facial muscles lose their ability to "spring back in place" as you age.
Coconut Oil and Wrinkles
Skin lotions with pure virgin coconut oil are best for preventing wrinkles, according to CoconutConnections.com. Most wrinkle-reducing oil products contain refined vegetable oils -- without any antioxidants -- that may actually accelerate skin aging by promoting free radicals, claims CoconutConnections.com. On the other hand, coconut oil contains antioxidants such as vitamin E, which are thought to reduce the cell-damaging effects of free radicals, for fewer lines and creases. Coconut oil keeps your skin moist and unwrinkled, according to OrganicFacts.com. In addition, coconut oil may strengthen the connective tissue that maintains skin firmness.
Carrot Seed Oil and Wrinkles
This essential oil produced from the carrot seed removes toxins and puffiness for firmer skin, claims CarrotMuseum.com. It may hydrate your skin and repair tissues damaged by free radicals, along with improving blood circulation. Carrot seed oil contains carotenoids -- powerful plant components that act as antioxidants. Sun products with carrot oil as an ingredient protect your skin from damaging UV rays as well, says CarrotMuseum.com.
Olive Oil and Wrinkles
Olive oil is one of the best ways to thwart the appearance of aging, claims author and olive oil expert Carol Firenze. Olive oil may moisturize, repair and even regenerate damaged skin cells. It penetrates deeply into the skin and provides long-lasting protection, according to OliveOilSource.com. Firenze suggests using olive oil as a night cream and applying it to wet skin. Olive oil is a rich source of antioxidants, such as vitamins A and E, to fight skin-damaging free radicals, says Firenze.
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