Tips to Reduce Wrinkles

Fine lines and wrinkles are a natural part of aging. However, when wrinkles appear prematurely, it can make you look older than you really are. Here are tips to reduce wrinkles:

Improve Your Diet

Aging affects the skin in many ways, including changes in the way your body processes nutrients. Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to keep your whole body healthier and stronger as you age. Focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary foods and drinks (including fruit juice), refined grains, and foods that have been fried or cooked in oil. These foods contain added sugars that can contribute to wrinkles and other signs of premature aging.

Quit Smoking

Smoking damages collagen fibers, which can lead to premature wrinkles and lines around your mouth. Smokers often experience blotchy patches on their cheeks due to the breakdown of capillaries in the skin. Cigarette smoke can also damage the teeth and lead to yellowed or discolored teeth. All of these effects of smoking can prematurely age your smile.

If you’ve tried quitting before and were unable to stick with it, ask your dentist about options for tobacco cessation aids such as chewing gum, inhalers, or nicotine gum. They may be able to help you find a method that’s right for you!

Protect Your Skin From the Sun

You can’t stop the clock, but you can help your skin look younger for longer by avoiding the sun’s harmful UV rays. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses when you’re outside. You can also try hats and long sleeves to protect your face. A broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15 should be applied at least 20 minutes before you go out in the sun. Reapply every two hours and more if you’re sweating or in the water.

Use a Moisturizer

Moisturizers are an important part of your skincare routine, even if you wear makeup every day. They help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier to prevent dryness and flakiness. If you use a good-quality product on a daily basis, you can reduce the appearance of fine lines and prevent premature wrinkles.

Look for moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamins E and C for the best results. If you have oily skin, opt for a water-based formula that won’t make your face oily or greasy. If you use too much, try using a pea-sized amount or less. If you consistently use too much, you’re likely going to end up with clogged pores and acne.

Be cautious when using heavier creams around your eyes, as that skin tends to be more sensitive than the rest of your face. Test the product on your wrist before applying it to your entire face to make sure it agrees with you. If you notice any redness or other signs of irritation after application, stop using it immediately.

Most moisturizers are only really necessary to apply once per day. However, using one at night before bed can help repair any damage done throughout the day. If you’re prone to breakouts, apply a lighter formula during the day and a heavier one at night to help keep blemishes at bay.

Treat Your Skin Gently

You may need to rethink your skincare routine to keep wrinkles at bay. Harsh creams, soap, and scrubs can strip away skin’s essential natural oils, leaving it dry and flaky. Switch over to gentle cleansers and moisturizers that won’t irritate the skin in a way that makes it wrinkle more easily. Don’t forget to moisturize after washing your face! This is extremely important for keeping your skin looking young and vibrant.

You should also avoid rubbing or pulling at your skin as much as possible. Tight clothing can also rub against your skin and cause irritation that can contribute to wrinkling. These habits can lead to premature aging and skin damage in minor cases but can also lead to skin cancer and other serious conditions as you age.

Remember that it’s normal for wrinkles to start appearing around age 50, so it’s also important to avoid getting too frustrated about small creases on your face. Try to maintain a calm and relaxed frame of mind to keep yourself youthful and healthy. Focus on living a healthy lifestyle that’s full of exercise, good nutrition, and plenty of sleep. Your body will thank you in the form of fewer wrinkles!

To learn more, call us at 312-664-2128 or visit our office at 233 E Erie, Suite 100, Chicago, IL 60611.