Wrinkles, also known as rhytide, are fold, ridge or crease in the skin or on fabric. It is a natural part of aging, typically appear as a result of aging process such as glycation, habitual sleeping position, too much sun-exposed skin, as a result of prolonged immersion in water.
Age wrinkling in the skin is promoted by habitual facial expressions, aging, sun damage, smoking,poor hydration, and various other factors. Although genetics mainly determine skin structure and texture, sun exposure is a major cause of wrinkles, especially for fair-skinned people. It most prominent on sun-exposed skin,such as the face, neck, hands and forearms.
Main Causes:
Age. As people get older, their skin naturally becomes less elastic and more fragile. Decreased production of natural oils dries the skin and makes it easier to appear more wrinkles. Besides, fat in the deeper layers of the skin diminishes, which lead to loose, saggy skin and more-pronounced lines and crevices.
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Ultraviolet radiation, which can speed the natural aging process, is the primary cause of early wrinkling. Exposure to UV light breaks down the skin’s connective tissue — collagen and elastin fibers, which lie in the deeper layer of skin (dermis).
Without the supportive connective tissue, your skin loses strength and flexibility. Skin then begins to sag and wrinkle prematurely.
Smoking. Smoking can accelerate the normal aging process of the skin, contributing to wrinkles. This may be due to changes in the blood supply to skin.
Repeated facial expressions. Facial movements and expressions, such as squinting or smiling, lead to fine lines and wrinkles. Each time you use a facial muscle, a groove forms beneath the surface of the skin. And as skin ages, it loses its flexibility and is no longer able to spring back in place. These grooves then become permanent features on your face.
Prevention and Treatment:
Protect your skin from the sun. Protect your skin — and prevent future wrinkles — by limiting the time you spend in the sun and always wearing protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts and sunglasses. Also, use sunscreen when outdoors, even during winter. It also helpful to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you’re swimming or perspiring.
Pack on protein.
Protein helps to build and maintain muscle mass, which people tend to lose as they get older. Additionally, eating enough protein is essential for healthy-looking hair—the nutrient is a building block for strong strands.
Cut back on sugar.
As if the risk for obesity, diabetes, and heart disease wasn’t enough, sugar may take a toll on your skin, too. In a 2010 study, researchers found a link between dietary sugars like glucose and greater production of advanced glycation end products.
Sleep on a silk pillowcase and sleep on your back.
Cotton and polyester tug at the delicate skin on your face, but silk and satin pillowcases are gentler, and can prevent you from waking up with creased cheeks. It’s possible that less friction on your skin can slow the formation of fine lines over time. Bonus: sleeping on silk also helps prevent frizzy hair. And if you always sleep on one side, which could be causing lines to form on the cheek that’s constantly pressed against the pillow.
Use moisturizers, especially anti aging creams.
Dry skin shrivels plump skin cells, which can lead to premature fine lines and wrinkles. Though moisturizers can’t prevent wrinkles, they may temporarily mask tiny lines and creases.
Don’t smoke.
Even if you’ve smoked for years or smoked heavily, you can still improve your skin tone and texture and prevent future wrinkles by quitting smoking.
Eat a healthy diet.
There is some evidence that certain vitamins in your diet help protect your skin. More study is needed on the role of nutrition, but it’s good to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Julia Waston