Wrinkles are a common part of your aging process and are most easily observed on skin that is exposed to the sun, including your face, neck and arms. MayoClinic.com states that two of the most important factors in determining wrinkles are genetics and your level of sun exposure. Other contributing factors may include heat and wind exposure and a history of smoking. Discuss herbal remedies with your dermatologist before using them to treat your wrinkles.
Wrinkles
Your rate of skin aging is determined by genetic factors, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center, although environmental factors can hasten the appearance of wrinkles and other skin conditions associated with aging. Wrinkles, lines and creases that develop in your skin may be particularly prominent around your mouth, neck and eyes. Smoking is one controllable risk factor associated with wrinkle formation. Smoking is believed to alter blood flow to your skin, which can accelerate your skin's normal aging process.
Useful Herbs
Herbal remedies are commonly prescribed to help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Some of the most useful herbs for this purpose, notes nutrition researcher Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," include acerola, alfalfa, borage, burdock root, chamomile, oat straw, red raspberry, thyme, aloe vera, comfrey and witch hazel. Herbs that may improve your skin tone include cranberry, flax seed and lemongrass. More scientific testing may be necessary to determine the long-term effectiveness of herbs in treating wrinkles.
A Helpful Botanical
Aloe vera is a helpful botanical treatment of wrinkles. Aloe vera, notes Balch, possesses soothing, healing and moisturizing action and can be applied topically -- directly to your skin -- to help hydrate your skin and reduce the appearance of your wrinkles. According to naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," aloe vera is commonly used in treating skin conditions, including burns, wounds and other skin lesions.
Additional Information
Although wrinkles are not a life-threatening health condition, they can be bothersome for some individuals. Herbs may help treat your wrinkles, but they are unlikely to restore your skin to perfect health and appearance. You should always exercise great caution when using herbs, as some can cause unexpected side effects, particularly if they are used incorrectly. A health care professional specializing in herbal medicine or clinical nutrition may be your best source of information about herbs and their health risks and benefits.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Wrinkles
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Wrinkles
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
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