Wrinkles occur when the skin gets thinner, drier and less elastic. Skin gradually loses its ability to protect itself from damage, resulting in lines and creases. Age, sun exposure and smoking can increase the occurrence of wrinkles, which are common around the eyes, mouth and neck. Although wrinkles can be treated through microdermabrasion, laser treatments, chemical peels, face lifts or Botox injections, these can be expensive procedures and cost thousands of dollars. There are inexpensive ways to get rid of wrinkles at home, although results vary according to the size and depth of your wrinkles.
Inexpensive Way to Get Rid of Wrinkles
Step 1
Use a topical retinoid cream such as Tretinoin or Retin-A. The main ingredient, Vitamin A, can help stimulate the renewal of collagen. Retinoid makes the skin sensitive, so use sunscreen and watch out for side effects such as redness, dryness, itching and tingling. These creams usually cost under $50.
Step 2
Try a nonprescription wrinkle cream made by many cosmetic and skin care companies, such as Neutrogena and Aveeno. These have ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids and antioxidants and can provide slight to modest improvement. Wrinkle creams can sometimes cost more than $50, but some cost $25 or less.
Step 3
Try a skin-tightening cream and apply it as often as directed. Cellex-C and VLCC are brands of skin-tightening creams, and the cost averages around $50.
Step 4
Do exercises that will firm your muscles and skin for free. According to HowStuffWorks.com, by placing the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth as far back as possible and repeating the movement, you can tighten your jaw, chin and neck. You can firm the same areas by stretching your chin high and thrusting it forward, or by touching your chin to each shoulder.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor about your wrinkles. He may be able to recommend further affordable treatment.
Tips and Warnings
- Prevent future wrinkles by moisturizing, using sunscreen and avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol, which take moisture away from the body. Moisturize your skin before exercising.
- Wrinkle creams are classified as cosmetics by the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, which means they have no guaranteed medical value and face less rigid testing procedures.
Things You'll Need
- Topical retinoid cream
- Wrinkle cream
- Skin-tightening cream
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