Smile wrinkles can form deep lines around extremely noticeable places on your face, such as the mouth and eyes. They can make you look older and be damaging to your self-esteem. There are a variety of medical procedures that can reduce the appearance of smile wrinkles, but there also are some things you can do at home.
Causes
According to the Mayo Clinic website, several factors contribute to the formation of smile wrinkles. As the skin ages, it thins out and becomes less supple. In addition, the deep fat layers in the skin begin to sag, which can result in pronounced wrinkles. Smoking and frequent exposure to the sun can speed up the aging process, breaking down the elastin and collagen in the skin and resulting in wrinkles. Frequent facial expressions like smiling can also cause permanent lines.
Methods
The book "Nature's Medicine" recommends vitamins that fight and reverse cell damage. "Vitamins A and E are really good for preventing free radical damage to the skin. They are very protective, and vitamin A is especially important for healing damaged skin." Dr. Hope Fay says in the book. Vitamin C also can help build collagen and firm the skin, which can help decrease the appearance of smile wrinkles.
Prevention
Because the sun can contribute to the formation of smile wrinkles, it is important to always protect your face from the sun. Always wear a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher when going outdoors. Also, you can talk in front of a mirror and watch for repeated facial expressions that form wrinkles; then try to reduce them over time.
Considerations
Moisturize your skin with an oil-fee lotion as much as possible. Although this will not get rid of wrinkles, it can lessen their appearance by plumping up the lines and reducing dryness. Look for a moisturizer with sunscreen. You also can use a humidifier at home or at work to add moisture to the air. Similar to the effects of lotion, moist air can keep the skin moisturized.
Warnings
You can buy products to do some office-type procedures, such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion, at home. If you choose to do this, it is important to follow all directions carefully. These products are less potent than office procedures, so it can be tempting to use them improperly to get better results. The American Academy of Dermatology warns that this can be damaging to the skin. Although wrinkles are not usually dangerous, you should contact a doctor or dermatologist if they occur at a young age.
References
- Go Ask Alice!: Wrinkle Remedies
- MayoClinic: Wrinkles
- MedlinePlus: Wrinkles
- American Academy of Dermatology: Wrinkles
- "Nature's Medicines"; Gale Maleskey; 1999
- "Age Erasers for Women"; Prevention Magazine Health Books; 1997
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