Our skins age as a result of many factors. Some things are beyond our control; other things we have influence over.

One thing we cannot control is the natural process of aging. It plays an important role. We all get visible wrinkles as we age. As we get older, our faces tend to lose some of their youthful roundness. We can observe that our skin has thinned and dried out. Genetics play a substantial role in determining the frequency of these changes. The medical term used to describe this phenomenon is called “intrinsic aging”

We can, however, influence a different aspect of aging that impacts our skin. Our lifestyle choices and the environment we live in can prematurely age our skin. This type of aging is referred to as “extrinsic aging.” By taking proactive measures, we can reduce the effects of this form of aging on our skin.

Avoid The Sun

Being exposed to the sun can cause damage to your skin, causing premature aging and wrinkles. Experts documented in a 2013 research, that regular sunscreen use can help slow the aging process.

SPF between 30 and 50 every day is crucial to protecting your skin from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays, even when the skies are overcast. Despite the clouds, UV rays still penetrate, so you should still wear sunscreen. For additional protection, wear a wide-brimmed hat, bright-colored clothes that will reflect sunlight, and UV-protective sunglasses.

Use Retinoids

Retinoids are the most studied anti-aging active ingredients, and they are derived from vitamin A. Sometimes called retinol, retinoids increase collagen synthesis, which helps tighten and plump up your skin. Retinoids can also aid in tissue regeneration and can enhance the skin’s texture and appearance.

There are five primary forms of retinoids, each with a slightly different level of potency. Some of them are available over the counter as creams and gels, while others can only be purchased with prescriptions.

Dermatologists suggest that you use the product every other day and start with little amounts to test the tolerance of your skin. Talk with your dermatologist to determine which options are right for your skin.

Moisturize

A moisturizer is like a drink of water to your face. The purpose of moisturizers is to hydrate and provide nourishment to take care of your skin effectively. This is particularly important as you grow older and your skin dries out, which makes it prone to wrinkles.

Researchers have discovered that moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid or vitamin C are extremely effective at slowing wrinkles from forming or deepening. Obtain product recommendations from your dermatologist that help keep your skin in good condition. These ingredients work by hydrating the skin and promoting collagen production, which are essential in maintaining a youthful appearance. While professional advice is invaluable, you can also explore DIY flower skin care tips to enhance your routine with natural remedies like rosewater or chamomile extracts. Combining dermatologist-recommended products with simple, nature-inspired solutions can help you achieve healthier, more radiant skin.

Drink Water

Drinking a lot of water keeps you healthy. The body needs water to carry out almost all of its functions. Besides performing vital functions such as eliminating toxins and assisting in digestion, water can also be used to hydrate your skin from the inside.

In a 2015 study on a group of healthy women, it was noted that higher water intake can have a positive effect on hydration, which may subsequently affect skin physiology. A 2017 study found that drinking tea made up of lemon balm leaf extract helps to boost skin elasticity and protect tissue damage. What’s evident here is drinking a lot of fluids will definitely help your skin look and feel younger.

Sleep Face Up

Your sleeping position may affect your chances of developing wrinkles. People who sleep on their sides or stomach suffer more from heart disease and diabetes than people who sleep on their back. Mechanical compression of the facial skin may speed up the appearance of wrinkles and make the skin look distorted and tougher. 

It is best to sleep on your back rather than your side or stomach in order to avoid this. Silk pillowcases have the advantage of causing less friction and abrasion to the skin than cotton does.

Stop Smoking

Tobacco smoke causes harm to collagen and elastin, which are the fibers found in the skin that give it its elasticity and strength.

Additionally, the nicotine in tobacco causes the blood vessels to constrict. By doing so, blood flow to your skin is reduced. As a consequence, your skin does not receive nearly as much oxygen or nutrients, like vitamin A, that it needs.

A 2013 study carried out among 79 identical twin pairs has shown that the twins who smoke have more wrinkles than their counterparts who don’t smoke. If you currently smoke, consider talking to your healthcare provider about how to stop smoking.

Drink Less Alcohol

Alcohol is very rough on the skin. It causes dehydration of the skin and eventually causes damage to it. This can give us the appearance of being older.

Wrinkles are an inevitable consequence of aging, but there are several steps you can take in order to slow their progress (as summarized above) and prevent the occurrence of new ones. Lifestyle factors such as consuming a diet rich in vitamins, protecting your skin from the sun, drinking plenty of water, managing your stress, and stopping smoking are essential in preserving your healthy and youthful skin.