About Wrinkles

What Causes Wrinkles?

When a person notices creases or folds on the face and body, these item are most likely wrinkles. They occur as skin’s elasticity decreases, collagen is lost, and fat that is located in the deepest skin layers is lowered. The number of wrinkles that a person gets is influenced by genetics and environmental factors as well. In fact, women tend to have more wrinkles than men. This is due to the lower amount of sweat glands and blood vessels in females. Although a person may develop wrinkles at any age, is most likely to occur as a person advances through time.

Various Causes of Wrinkles

As mentioned, a person develops wrinkles for a number of reasons. By identifying the underlying factors, it may be possible to prevent their formation.

Aging

The most obvious reason behind wrinkles is aging. As a person gets older, his of her skin cells divide at a slow rate, which causes the middle layer of skin to become thin. This middle layer, or dermis, is constructed from collagen and elastin fibers that give skin support. As they become loose with time, the skin becomes lined with depressions. Also, an older person’s skin holds less moisture than a younger individual’s skin. It is less able to create oil and to heal from wounds. For these reasons, wrinkles are likely to develop with age.

Sun Damage

When a person’s skin is exposed to UV light, photoaging occurs. The sun’s rays break down the skin’s collagen, which causes the abnormal production of elastin. As UV light damages tissue in the skin, metalloproteinase results. As this occurs, an enzyme reforms collagen. Unfortunately, certain collagen fibers become damaged. Wrinkles form during this rebuilding process.

 

Exposure to Pollution

The external environment plays a key role in the development of wrinkles. When there is pollution in the air, it is easy for free radical damage to occur. A 2010 study uncovered that people who reside in urban areas are more likely to deal with wrinkles and age spots than people who live in rural locations.

Smoking

Smoking is a bad habit that is known to negatively affect the lungs. However, it causes wrinkles to form on the skin as well. To begin, the purse of the mouth that holds a cigarette can cause lines to form. Also, toxins in a cigarette may cause skin to age. In fact, nicotine narrows the skin’s blood vessels. In the end, this leaves it more open to wrinkles.

Lack of Quality Sleep

Quality sleep is good for a person’s overall health. Indeed, it builds a solid immune system and helps a person maintain his or her weight. However, adequate sleep can allow a person to enjoy a smooth complexion as well. When an individual does not get enough sleep, his or her pH changes, and skin loses hydration. This can lead to wrinkles. Also, throughout the sleep cycle, a person’s skin is flushed of its toxins. When this does not occur, there are negative effects. Wrinkles are just one result.

High Levels of Stress

Most people feel the fatigue that comes with too much stress at home or work. It takes a mental and emotional toll. However, there are physical effects as well. Stress raises the body’s cortisol levels. This lowers the skin’s ability to keep moisturized. Also, stress raises blood sugar, which damages elastin and collagen. In the end, the skin starts to sag and develop wrinkles.

Poor Diet Filled with Sugar

Consuming high levels of sugar can cause weight gain. Also, it may lead to premature aging. When sugar is eaten, it binds to various proteins within the body. These proteins include elastin and collagen. When sugar binds, it causes elastin and collagen to become weak. In many cases, this causes wrinkles to form.

Squinting

Although a person may think that wearing glasses is a sign of old age, it is often better than to suffer worse consequences. As a person squints, the muscles around the eyes contract. With time, these muscles get stronger. However, lines around the face begin to form. Therefore, too much squinting will cause wrinkles to deepen.

Drinking with a Straw

Many dentists recommend drinking from a straw so that teeth remain protected from harsh acids. As with cigarettes, when a person wraps his or her mouth around a straw on a continuous basis, it can cause wrinkles to develop. Muscles contract near the lips. As with squinting, this motion causes wrinkles to become deep and obvious.

Dry Skin

Although dry skin does not cause wrinkles, it plays a big part in making them look worse. When a person produces adequate amounts of natural oil, skin remains hydrated. This makes a person’s complexion appear moist and plump. Once skin becomes dry, there is little oil present. In other words, there is no protective barrier. This means that necessary moisture is not around to plump the skin. In the end, this makes wrinkles look deep.
Aging is a big factor that is involved with wrinkles. However, there are other habits and items that can quicken the development of them or make them worse. Identifying the causes of wrinkles makes it possible to prevent or effectively treat the issue.

Where are Wrinkles Most Likely to Occur? Are All Wrinkles the Same?

Wrinkles occur when the skin becomes thin, dry, and less elastic. They are a natural part of aging. The most common areas that they develop include parts of the body that get the most sun exposure. Therefore, the face, neck, arms, and hands are most likely to be affected.

Various Types of Wrinkles

Although many people regard wrinkles in a negative way, they are characteristics that make a person unique. There are a few people in the world who do not have wrinkles. It is important to realize is that there are different kinds.

  • Dynamic Wrinkles. This kind of wrinkle occurs after a person repeatedly performs certain facial movements. For example, pursing lips and squinting are considered actions that cause dynamic wrinkles.
  • Static Wrinkles. This type of wrinkle occurs when there is a loss of elasticity. For example, wrinkles on the jowl area that occur with the help of gravity are considered static wrinkles.

Four Basic Places for Wrinkles

There are a few places on the body that are prone to developing wrinkles. Certain wrinkles hit particular areas most often.

  • Crinkle Lines. Atrophic crinkling rhytids are shallow wrinkles that commonly run in parallel lines on the forehead.
  • Permanent Elastotic Creases. These are common on pale individuals. They are deep lines on places where a person has natural creases. For example, they are found on the lips, neck, or cheeks.
  • Dynamic Expression Lines. These wrinkles result from a combination of frequent facial expressions and loss of elasticity. For example, frowning or laughing causes lines around the mouth and eyes.
  • Gravitational Folds. As a person ages, his or her skin becomes less firm. This causes sagging. Due to gravity, an individual will see folds develop on the chin and neck areas.

Modern Names for Specific Wrinkles

A person may have a variety of wrinkles across his or her body. With time, the English language has adopted a few names for these lines that do not follow actual medical terminologies. However, they definitely describe a multitude of wrinkles.

  • Crow’s Feet. Crow’s feet are the lines that extend from the outer eye corners. In most cases, these occur when a person squints often. The thin layers of skin by the eyes develops tiny lines. They may also occur from frequent bouts of smiling, laughing, or crying.
  • Smoker’s Lines. Even though this name indicates that these wrinkles are exclusive to smokers, these lines can occur on anyone. They refer to wrinkles that surround the lips. They are associated with the puckering pose, which is necessary to inhale a cigarette. Also, drinking from a straw may cause this type of crease.
  • Laugh Lines. Although a person should not be punished for being happy and having a good time, laugh lines are wrinkles that occur from smiling a lot. Besides being located by the mouth, they may appear on the nose as well.
  • Elevens. This type of wrinkle gets its name from the two lines that form between a person’s eyebrows. They appear vertical along each side of the nose. “Elevens” are also known as frown lines. They are most obvious when an individual is frowning from sadness.
  • Bunny Lines. Although bunny lines sound cute, they may be considered unsightly. Since a person gets these lines from wrinkling his or her nose like a rabbit, they are called bunny lines. They form on the sides of the nose and may extend to the cheeks.
  • Marionette Lines. These wrinkles are deep and form on the sides of a person’s mouth. In some cases, they may run from the nose to the jaw. The deep texture results from a loss of firmness. They are also known as jowl lines.
  • Turkey “waddle” neck. A waddle neck can be quite embarrassing. It describes sagging skin that forms beneath the chin and jaw. It commonly occurs when a person ages. It is most prevalent in an individual who quickly loses a high amount of weight.
  • Tech Neck. This name was developed as technology has taken over the world. During this digital age, tech neck refers to the horizontal wrinkles on the neck that are associated with looking down at a phone or a similar device. In fact, the neck has extremely thin skin. This type of action makes wrinkles form easily.
  • Accordion Lines. To repeat, wrinkles that form around the mouth and eyes are often products of laughing. However, when they occur in sets of deep and vertical lines on the corners of the mouth, they may be known as accordion lines. As a person ages, they become deeper and deeper.
  • Cleavage Wrinkles. Wrinkles appear on more than just a person’s face. On women, it is common for lines to develop in the cleavage area. Many times, these occur when a woman sleeps on her side. They are more likely to develop when there is sun damage in the area. This part of the body has less oil glands, so wrinkles are likely to develop as well. Issues may be aggravated by wearing a tight bra.

Wrinkles Reflect an Individual’s Personality

No matter what wrinkles are called, each person’s set is a reflection of his or her life. This is not always a bad thing. There are a few areas that most commonly are plagued with wrinkles and lines. Since wrinkles are categorized into different types, they affect different areas for different reasons. Luckily, it is possible to learn prevention tips so that they do not form.

Best Ways to Prevent Wrinkles

As a person ages, it is common for his or her skin to lose elasticity. Collagen production slows. Also, a variety of external factors lead to the problem. Luckily, there are things that can be done to prevent wrinkles from forming prematurely.

Use a Moisturizer

Hydration is the key to preventing the formation of wrinkles. Is essential to keep skin moisturized, so a hydrating product should be part of a daily skincare routine. It is especially important to use a moisturizer when a person gets older. Some experts recommend using a product that contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. This ensures that the product penetrates into a deeper layer of skin. A dermatologist may be able to recommend a helpful moisturizer as well.

Drink, Drink, Drink

To repeat, it is essential to keep the body hydrated. This is the best way to prevent wrinkle formation. A person should drink plenty of water each day. Therefore, his or her body can flush away toxins, aid with digestion, and improve skin health. Studies have proven that remaining hydrated prevents wrinkles.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Certain research has shown that individuals who consume large amounts of red meat and snacks are that are filled with sugar get more wrinkles than people who follow a healthy diet. Eating foods that are filled with antioxidant properties heighten skin’s elasticity so that wrinkles are less likely to form. For example, salmon, avocados, and olive oil are all items that prevent the problem.

Stay Out of the Sun

When ultraviolet light penetrates a person’s skin, damage occurs in the elastic fibers that are responsible for firmness. As this happens, wrinkles develop. Therefore, it is essential to wear sunscreen or to stay in the shade when outdoors.

Stop Smoking

Smoking is a bad habit that affects the lungs. However, it causes a person’s skin to become dry and sallow. Also, it leads to age spots and wrinkles, especially around the lips and the eyes. To prevent these unsightly lines from developing, a person should put away the cigarettes for good.

Use Retinoids

Retinoids are products that contain vitamin A. Scientists have studied their positive effects on aging. Retinoids can heighten collagen production, which leaves skin plump. Also, retinoids promote skin rejuvenation. This improves a person’s overall appearance and prevents wrinkles from forming. Certain retinoids are available on store shelves. Others require a prescription. For more information, it is wise for person to consult with his or her dermatologist.

Sleeping Positions

A study that was performed in 2016 uncovered that a person’s sleeping position plays a role in wrinkle formation. It was determined that people who sleep on their stomachs or sides experience mechanical compression forces. In other words, wrinkle formation occurs quickly, especially on the face. Some people use silk pillowcases so that the skin rubs against a soft surface during rest.

Relax the Face

When a person repeatedly performs facial movements like frowning or squinting, wrinkles are formed. To prevent these types of wrinkles, it is important for a person to relax his or her face. If a person is squinting on a regular basis, it may signal a need to get an eye exam. An individual may need a stronger eyeglass prescription. In certain cases, stress my cause a person to tighten facial muscles as well. In these times, it is important to practice meditation or exercises that relieve stress.

Common Myths about Wrinkles

There is no cure for wrinkles. However, when a person is looking for ways to prevent them, there are a few myths that must be debunked.

There is One Perfect Anti-Aging Product

No two people have the same skincare routine. However, does one person know a secret to a wrinkle-free complexion? Unfortunately, there is not one product on the market that helps a person totally avoid wrinkles and fine lines. Most dermatologists recommend using products that include retinols and peptides. These are proven to help prevent wrinkles. Also, it is important to keep using products that bring noticeable results.

A Person Only Needs Sunscreen on Sunny Days

Most people realize that sunscreen is necessary on sunny days. However, is also essential to wear it during cloudy conditions. A solid sunscreen protects skin from UV damage. Also, it guards against pollution and other negatives. By using a product that protects from UVA and UVB rays, a person can keep skin healthier and free from wrinkles. If a person wants to achieve the look of tan skin, sunless products are available.

It is normal for a person to feel a bit underwhelmed when he or she notices wrinkles. However, these lines are what make a person unique. It is important for an individual to take care of his or her skin. Also, is essential to realize that wrinkles are extremely common. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent them from developing prematurely. By following the above tips, a person can enjoy healthier and smoother skin.

Best Ways to Treat Wrinkles

When a person looks in the mirror and notices wrinkles, he or she may wish to uncover ways to treat the problem. There are both surgical and nonsurgical methods. Depending on the severity of the issue, a person can select the most appropriate treatment for individual circumstances.

Nonsurgical Wrinkle Treatments

For less severe wrinkles, it is possible to use nonsurgical means of treatment. It does not have to be expensive or painful to eliminate or lessen the fine lines that develop.

Retinoids

Retinoids are available OTC or by prescription. By far, these items are quite effective at lowering signs of aging, including wrinkles. They are easily applied to the skin. Although results may not be immediate, a person will notice a change in a short period of time. At first, some of these medications can cause the skin to become red or to peel, but a person will enjoy improvements beyond these effects.

Retinoids

Alpha-hydroxy acids are extracted from fruits. For people with fine lines, treatment with these ingredients can deliver subtle results. Most individuals suffer little to no irritation.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the “superstar” of anti-aging. It is an antioxidant that raises the production of collagen and elastin and eliminates free radicals that cause wrinkles. Also, this vitamin protects a person’s skin from the sun. To incorporate it into a daily skin routine, a person may choose products that contain 15 percent ascorbic acid. Also, it should be bottled in a dark container so that oxidation does not occur. It is advised to apply vitamin C to dry skin and to begin slowly. Also, it is imperative to wear sunscreen when using vitamin C on the skin.

More Drastic Ways to Treat Wrinkles

When a person has severe wrinkles that he or she wishes to treat, it may require more drastic measures.

Chemical Peels

A chemical peel is made to exfoliate the external layer of skin. In the end, a person enjoys smoother skin with less wrinkles. If an individual has sensitive skin, it is best to consult with an experienced doctor before treatment.

Botox

Many people use Botox as their main treatment for wrinkles. Botox is injected into the skin and prohibits chemical signals that make muscles contract. When muscles can’t get tight, the skin remains flat and free of wrinkles. It is often used to reduce the lines that appear on the forehead and around the eyes. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that results last up to four months.

Dermal Fillers

A dermal filler is a gel that is injected into the skin so that wrinkles are smoothed. It restores plumpness and volume so that a person looks younger. Unlike a Botox treatment, a dermal filler may be used to treat wrinkles that result from lost collagen, sun damage, or gravity.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a surgical method of wearing away the top layer of a person’s skin. Throughout the process, fine lines are eliminated. Unfortunately, a person may experience negative side effects like swelling, scabbing, and other skin changes. Microdermabrasion is less invasive. A professional uses a special tool to exfoliate the top layer of skin. It is less painful than regular dermabrasion, but results are less obvious.

Microneedling

Microneedling is known as collagen induction therapy. Small needles are used to pinch the skin so that collagen production is encouraged. The results lower the appearance of tiny wrinkles. The procedure may cause slight bleeding, but things heal quickly. In the end, skin appears smooth and soft.

Radiofrequency Treatments

With radiofrequency treatments, a person receives low energy radiation that heats his or her skin. This encourages elastin and collagen production. As discussed, this decreases the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin. The biggest benefit of this treatment is the fast recovery time. It targets the dermis and does not cause damage to the top layer of skin.

Facelift

The most radical and invasive procedure to eliminate wrinkles is a facelift. During surgery, facial skin and fat are removed. Also, tissues are tightened. Although a person will look younger and wrinkle free, recovery time is long. Effects last up to five years.

Even though wrinkles are normal, people may wish to eliminate them and take advantage of smoother skin. There are both surgical and nonsurgical ways to lessen the amount of wrinkles on your face. In the end, it is possible to age gracefully and to reduce the lines that naturally develop.