Wrinkles can make us look older than we really are, but what causes them? It's a combination of factors — some you can control and others you can't. Let’s take a closer look at why wrinkles form and what we can do to reduce their appearance.
Understanding the Causes
Genetics and Aging. First off, genetics plays an inevitable role in the formation of wrinkles. As we age, our skin naturally becomes thinner and less elastic due to the production of collagen and elastin slowing down as we get older. This is why wrinkles start appearing earlier in life for some people than others – it all depends on your genes.
Sun Exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are one of the primary culprits when it comes to wrinkles. UV radiation breaks down the collagen and elastin fibers in our skin, leading to sagging skin and deep-set wrinkles on certain areas like our face, neck, hands, arms etc.. Even if you don't spend much time outdoors during peak sunlight hours (10am-4pm), exposure to UVA/UVB rays for even short periods of time can result in premature aging. Applying sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from these harmful rays.
Smoking. A study published in The American Journal of Medicine found that smoking breaks down collagen and elastin fibers faster than normal aging does – leading to more pronounced wrinkling around the mouth area specifically. Additionally, smoking has been linked to oxidative stress which directly affects your skin’s health after prolonged exposure. So if you want smooth, healthy looking skin it's important to quit smoking as soon as possible, or better yet - never start!
When to See a Doctor About Wrinkles
As skin ages, wrinkles are a natural part of the process. However, if wrinkles are causing you telltale signs of insecurity or simply make you feel uncomfortable about your appearance, it may be time to consult with a dermatologist. Seeing a medical professional is always the right choice when it comes to wrinkles as they can provide tailored advice on which treatment might help reduce their appearance in addition to recommending steps you can keep wrinkles from getting worse over time. Medications like retinoids and growth factors can treat wrinkles effectively while also maintaining healthy skin integrity, so talk to your dermatologist today to learn how they can help!
What to do
While there are many different factors that contribute to wrinkle formation – many of which cannot be changed – there are still plenty of things that you can do in order to minimize their appearance over time.
Making sure to wear sunscreen is an absolute must as this will protect your skin from UV damage which contributes significantly towards wrinkle formation.
Additionally, avoiding smoking will also help keep your skin wrinkle free for longer periods of time by reducing oxidative stress levels and preventing collagen breakdown.
Finally, taking good care of your overall health by eating right and exercising regularly will help promote healthy looking skin too! By following these simple tips you'll be able to maintain youthful looking skin well into your later years!
Cited from the Mayo Clinic & the American Academy of Dermatology