1. So how do fine lines and wrinkles actually appear? Who or what is really to blame?
Facial Expressions: People use facial muscles every time they smile, laugh, frown or squint. So, naturally over the years, lines and wrinkles develop.Environmental enemies: Pollution, chemicals, automotive exhaust, wind and UVA/UVB sun rays attack skin. These environmental factors cause skin to break down, resulting in wrinkles. Collagen is vital in structuring our skin, keeping it soft, smooth and plump. We have lots of collagen when we're young, but with age, collagen decreases and wrinkles form. Moisture loss: When skin loses moisture, it becomes drier, contributing to wrinkles. Toxins in smoke are extremely harmful to the skin. Smoke also causes eye irritation, making people squint and leading to wrinkles.
2. Taking preventative measures
A crucial anti-aging step for preventing lines and wrinkles is protecting the skin from sun damage. Choose a broad spectrum product with a high SPF and apply it every day! Defend the skin from wrinkle-causing harsh pollution and environmental damage alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Encouraging new healthy cells to replace old dead cells, AHAs exfoliate dull or dry skin for a smoother look. Similarly, ceramides shield skin from pollution, smoke and other environmental threats to prevent wrinkles. Try an eye cream that contains ceramides to protect delicate facial skin.
3. Treating lines and wrinkles: Dermatologists say that these ingredients are especially beneficial for an effective anti-aging arsenal.
Peptides are proteins that help produce new collagen and fill out wrinkles. Unlike Botox, peptides work on fine lines and deep creases. Peptides may also relax facial muscles and nerves to reduce new wrinkles. Retinol -- a type of vitamin A -- encourages new healthy cells to replace damaged cells and forms new collagen to fill wrinkles. Antioxidants like vitamin C and grape-seed extract defend skin from free radical damage.
4. Dermatologist's in-office procedures also provide effective alternatives:
*Microdermabrasion uses special crystal particles that remove the outer layer of dead skin and minimize fine wrinkles. According to Dr. Brian Zelickson of the University of Minnesota Medical School, Department of Dermatology, microdermabrasion also helps with skin cell renewal and new collagen formation. However, like Botox, this option won't work well on deeper wrinkles.
Chemical peels treat wrinkles and fine lines. Different types of chemicals may be used, like glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid or lactic acid, depending on the desired "depth" of the peel. The chemicals produce a reaction that will make skin turn red, blister and peel away, revealing newer, smoother skin with fewer wrinkles. Possible risks may include scarring, changes in skin pigment or cold sores. Fillers involve injections of substances like Hyaluronic acid or collagen. They plump skin and add moisture. Results from fillers, which are effective in filling in deep creases, may last longer than Botox. But, like Botox, needles are involved.