Wrinkles are a normal part of aging, but they don't affect everyone in the same way. Some people can go into their fifties without many wrinkles, while others start getting fine lines in their twenties. Caring for wrinkles often requires a multi-faceted approach. It's important to soften aging skin and make deep lines look less noticeable, of course, but real care of wrinkles comes in the form of prevention.
Definition
Wrinkles occur when the skin can no longer maintain the stretchiness and elastic quality it had in youth to stretch out of place and snap back. The elastin and the collagen in the skin begins to break down and your body fails to produce as much of it, leaving your skin thin and exposed to the elements. This results in fine lines and eventually deeper wrinkles that can make the skin sag.
Causes
Wrinkles on your skin can be caused by a variety of things, though nothing is more suspect than sun exposure. Ultraviolet rays can cause you to develop wrinkles much faster than you would have otherwise, as the sun can damage the underlying tissues of your skin. Smoking is another culprit, drying out your skin and causing many fine wrinkles all over your face, especially around the mouth. Having chronically dry skin, whether from an inherent condition or weather, is another prime cause of wrinkles, which can cause your skin to crack and appear older than it is.
Prevention/Solution
Preventing wrinkles is one of the best ways to care for them. You can do this by wearing sunscreen every day with an SPF of at least 15. You should also moisturize your skin on a daily basis, taking special care on your hands, neck and face. If you wear foundation, use one with SPF 15 included. Avoid colder weather climates, which can have a constant drying effect on your skin.
Treatments
Treating your wrinkles involves a comprehensive skin care program. You should first moistureize your skin, especially if you have dry skin or live in a dry climate. You should also avoid ingredients that can irritate your skin and cause inflammation, which can lead to damaged tissues. Some ingredients that typically cause irritation include parabens, menthol, fragrance and oils. Wash your face with a cleanser that contains alpha hydroxy acids. This ingredient will peel away the topmost layer of skin and reveal fresher, more youthful skin underneath. This can help make wrinkles look less pronounced over time.
Change Habits
A few lifestyle changes can lessen the appearance of your wrinkles and help you to take better care of your skin as well. For instance, you should quit smoking, avoid going out into the sun without sunblock and don't pull on your skin excessively. This is especially the case for women when applying makeup or skin creams. Be gentle to your skin. Likewise, don't make exaggerated facial expressions and try not to sleep on your side. This can cause mouth, cheek and eye lines.
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