Those not-so-cute nicknames for our wrinkles.laugh lines, worry lines, character lines, frown lines and one of the most unflattering descriptions, crows feet. Ugh! Theyre just another one of lifes cruel jokes, sneaking up on you over time, but seemingly appearing overnight. Over time, some lines form due to habitual facial expressions or movements, such as frowning or squinting, and other lines are caused by outside factors like air pollution and sun exposure. Preventing and eliminating lines and wrinkles in our aging skin has become somewhat of a preoccupation among many people today, largely due to the premium our society places on a youthful look. Aging with dignity for some, cannot be accomplished without the help of a myriad of cosmetic products or even plastic surgery! Its never too late to learn which elements can expedite wrinkles, and what you can do to slow down the inevitable aging process. Cigarette smoking, besides being bad for your health, has been known to contribute to wrinkles and aging skin disorders. Smoking for a number of years can lead to those deep lines radiating from your lips. Air pollution and the effects on our ozone layer have been known to deplete important antioxidant (vitamin E for example) in our skin. Sun exposure (both UVA and UVB rays) causes damage to your skin, which leads to wrinkles, along with other skin disorders and cancer. Even small amounts of ultraviolet radiation can start the chemical processes in your skin that leads to wrinkles. What can you do? Well, it is really a matter of just using your common sense. Stop smoking yes, easier said than done. Use sunscreen regularly (SPF 15 to 30) and make sure that it contains both UVA and UVB protection. Eat well, get plenty of rest, take antioxidant supplements and be sure to drink plenty of water. Eliminate caffeinated beverages, or at least reduce the amount you drink, and replace it with water. Drinking water is probably the single most important aid in wrinkle preventionthink of it as moisturizing from the inside! |
