Wrinkles are the inevitable outward sign that we are aging and I am NOT ready to deal with them. Are you? Wrinkles usually begin with “Crow’s Feet”, those small fine lines at the outer edges of our eyes. They are caused by a number of things: the natural aging process, dehydration, smoking, exposure to the sun, repetitive facial expressions, sleeping positions, and gravity. Some of these we can control, some we can not.
Those we can not control are generally related to genetics which play a big role in our own particular aging process, e.g. some people notice a few gray hairs beginning in their early 20s, while others do not begin that process until their 40s or 50s. Another big factor is gravity. There is no controlling that one. Over time, gravity causes most everything to droop and sag. We can delay this to some degree with good nutrition and a good exercise program.
The things we can control which can make a real difference in how and when we show the effects of aging are:
- Smoking. It causes changes in the skin which lead to premature wrinkling.
- Repeated exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. These damage your skin at a cellular level limiting your skin’s ability to repair itself and manifests in earlier aging of your skin causing it to become less firm, more freckled and wrinkled.
- Repetitive facial expressions. Unfortunately, this is one area where it is recommended that you stop exercising as facial exercises actually increase fine lines and wrinkles.
- Sleeping positions. Sleeping on your side tends to cause wrinkles to appear on your chin and cheeks. Sleeping face down into your pillow causes more wrinkles on your forehead.
- Dehydration. Lack of sufficient fluid in your body does not lead to “Crow’s Feet” and wrinkles, but it does contribute to an overall dryness and tautness of the skin on your entire body. Dehydration also creates major stress, which can cause you to look older.Lack of sufficient fluid in your body does not lead to “Crow’s Feet” and wrinkles, but it does contribute to an overall dryness and tautness of the skin on your entire body. Dehydration also creates major stress, which can cause you to look older.
Recommendations for Prevention of Wrinkles
- Limit your exposure to smoke. Stop smoking and/or stay away from others while they smoke.
- Limit your UV exposure. Avoid deliberate tanning, either indoor tanning booths or outside in direct sunlight. Apply sunscreen year round and wear protective clothing.
- Stop exercising your facial muscles, and no, this does not mean you have to stop laughing. Please enjoy your life. Just do not do the exercises to keep a youthful appearance. It is self-defeating.
- Sleep on your back whenever possible. This will prevent wrinkles caused by many hours with your face on a pillow, and finally
- The ideal amount of water to consume daily equals half your weight, e.g. 150lbs/2 = 75 ounces water. Instead of trying to figure this out, it is just easier to drink six or more 12-ounce glasses of water.
For Healthier, Younger-Looking Skin
There are a variety of therapies and treatments available today. The medical treatments include such things as injectable fillers and botox, as well as chemical peeling, laser resurfacing, and a surgical facelift. Personally, I prefer a more natural approach, such as the recommendations above and the use of cosmetic therapies (Moisturizers, Exfoliants, and natural oils such as Tamanu Oil).
Skin Care and Anti-Aging series.