Wrinkles

Wrinkles

How Wrinkles Form

As we age, the cells in the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin that protects us from the elements) become increasingly thin and decreasingly sticky. As a result, our aging skin becomes thinner and drier; cells divide more slowly, meaning that the natural repairing mechanisms in the skin work less quickly.
Changes also occur in the dermis, the second layer of the skin, where the connective tissue is found. The connective tissue controls the strength and elasticity of the skin, as well as the proteins found in it.
In our aging skin, the dermis becomes thinner and collagen production is decreased. Elastin fibers decline, leading to decreased elasticity.

Wrinkle-Fighting Foods

Foods that are high in antioxidants help counteract a decrease in collagen, elasticity and firmness in aging skin.
Tomatoes are an excellent wrinkle prevention food because they contain lycopene, a substance that also decreases the risk of developing cancer. Red peppers have loads of Vitamin A and Vitamin E, as well as bioflavonoids, which moisturize and heal the skin. Beets and carrots (and other red and dark orange vegetables) are also great foods to consume if you want to prevent wrinkles.
Also rich in antioxidants, kale also contains iron that helps bring oxygen to the skin and vitamin A that wards off premature aging. Blueberries are another excellent source of antioxidants.
Salmon contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids that reduces inflammation and lubricates the skin.
It's also important not to smoke and to drink four to six glasses of water a day in order to keep your skin looking young and wrinkle free.

Sunscreen

Proper skin care is central to in the prevention of lines and wrinkles.
UVA and UVB exposure causes 90% of all symptoms of premature skin aging, including wrinkles.
While sunscreen is a woman's best weapon against developing wrinkles, most women don't apply enough, apply it frequently enough or use a high enough level of UV protection.
Most people apply only 25 to 30% of the recommended amount of sunscreen. Sunscreen should be applied liberally, and should cover all parts of the body, including ears, hands and feet.
Sunscreen should be applied every two to four hours. Experts recommend using sunscreen with protection against UVA and UVB exposure and with a minimum SPF of 15. Look for a sunscreen that also contains zinc oxide, avobenzone or titanium dioxide to help keep your skin wrinkle free.