Reduce wrinkles naturally? Tips and advice

 

What are wrinkles 

Wrinkles, also known as rhytides, are folds that form on the skin as we age. As you grow older, the skin produces less collagen and elastin, two key proteins that keep the skin firm and resilient. This makes the skin thinner and less resistant to damage. Factors such as genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle choices also play a significant role. Smile lines and lines under the eyes are often the first signs of skin aging.

Two types of wrinkles 

Dynamic wrinkles

Dynamic wrinkles are caused by repeated movements of facial muscles, such as smiling, frowning, and squinting. These wrinkles are usually visible during facial expressions and become deeper over time.

Examples of dynamic wrinkles include:

• Forehead lines
• Crow's feet (lines around the eyes)
• Laugh lines (wrinkles around the nose and lips)
• Frown lines (vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows)
• Bunny lines (lines around the eyes)
• Smoker's lines (wrinkles around the edges of the lips)

Static wrinkles

Static wrinkles are present even when the face is at rest. They are caused by the loss of skin elasticity, collagen, and hydration. Examples include wrinkles around the mouth, fine lines under the eyes, and deep wrinkles on the cheeks. These wrinkles become more prominent with age and are often the result of prolonged exposure to harmful environmental factors such as sunlight.

Main causes of wrinkles and fine lines 

Wrinkles are caused by various internal and external factors. Understanding these causes helps you choose the right strategies to reduce wrinkles and slow down skin aging.

Aging

As we age, the production of collagen and elastin in the skin slows down. These proteins are responsible for the skin's firmness and elasticity. The natural aging process leads to thinner skin and the formation of wrinkles.

Genetics

Genetic predisposition can also play a significant role in developing wrinkles. Some people naturally have higher collagen and elastin production, which keeps their skin youthful and supple for longer..

Sun exposure

UV radiation damages skin cells and breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and other signs of skin aging, such as age spots. Scientific research shows that about 80% of skin aging is caused by sun exposure.

Lifestyle choices

The lifestyle choices you make also impact the skin's aging process. Factors like dehydration, poor nutrition, and stress can negatively affect your skin. We discuss more about this in our section on tips to delay skin aging.

How to get rid of wrinkles

Wrinkles and fine lines are a natural part of aging and nothing to fear when they appear. While there are no natural remedies to completely eliminate wrinkles, there are several natural ways to slow down facial aging. Want to learn more? Read our 12 tips below!

12 tips to delay skin aging

1. Avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen

As mentioned earlier, exposure to UV radiation (sun) is the leading cause of skin aging. By wearing sunscreen daily with an SPF of at least 20, you can reduce and prevent wrinkles. SPF doesn't always have to be in sunscreen; it can also be found in a good day cream.

2. Reduce sugar intake 

Medical studies show that sugar consumption can be harmful to your health. Sugar causes a process called glycation, in which advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are formed. AGEs break down collagen and can make your skin look older. These substances are also associated with food preparation methods like grilling and frying. By eating less sugar and oil-rich foods, you maintain a youthful appearance.

3. Quit smoking! 

The chemicals in cigarette smoke damage collagen and elastin, while the repeated motion of sucking on a cigarette contributes to the formation of fine lines around the mouth.

4. Ensure adequate sleep

Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to increased production of the stress hormone cortisol, which accelerates the breakdown of skin cells. Adequate sleep is crucial for skin regeneration and wrinkle prevention.

5. Hydration is key

Lack of hydration leads to dry skin, which is less elastic and more prone to wrinkles. Drinking enough water and using hydrating products help keep your skin hydrated and supple.

6. Use a daily day and night cream

A good day and night cream hydrates the skin, plumps it up, improves elasticity, and gives it a soft appearance. Face creams contain anti-aging ingredients like vitamins C and E, which stimulate collagen production. Here are our favorite products:

• The Day Formula & The Night Formula: These popular collagen serums fill fine lines, reduce visible wrinkles and pores, and plump the skin. They feature the unique SAX-12® technology, combining 97% skin-identical atelo collagen with high-quality hyaluronic acid and peptides.
• The AHA Peel: A powerful exfoliant containing a mix of alpha hydroxy acids, designed to renew skin cells. This clinically proven formula helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles while gently exfoliating the skin for a radiant appearance. Suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.
• The Volume: A true anti-aging hero. This rich cream deeply hydrates and gives the skin a fuller, more radiant effect. With intensive moisturizing components and antioxidants, it ensures a glowing, healthy complexion.

7. Cleanse your face daily

It's always worth spending an extra 3 to 5 minutes washing your face at night. Do not leave makeup on, as your skin absorbs most substances, including harmful chemicals, contributing to oxidative stress. Use a gentle, water-based cloth to cleanse your face and finish with a splash of cold water. Avoid vigorous scrubbing to protect your skin.

8. Change your sleeping position

Many people don't know that certain facial wrinkles can result from your sleeping position. This phenomenon, called "compression," occurs because your face presses against the pillow in the same way every night. Over time, this can weaken the skin and cause wrinkles. To prevent this, regularly change your sleeping position or sleep on your back.

9. Increase your antioxidants

Your skin is exposed to oxidative stress daily, which can cause damage. Antioxidants help fight this damage. You can get antioxidants from sunscreen or wrinkle cream and through your diet. Eating blueberries, kidney beans, grapes, kale, and spinach can improve your skin's health and reduce signs of aging.

10. Wear sunglasses

Repeated facial movements, like squinting against the sun or to focus, can strain facial muscles and create grooves under the skin. These grooves eventually become wrinkles. Wear glasses or sunglasses to prevent this. Sunglasses also protect the skin around the eyes from sun damage, which helps prevent wrinkles.

11. Massage your face

Treat yourself to a facial massage. This improves blood circulation and relaxes the facial muscles. Scientific research shows that massages can reduce visible smile lines and other signs of skin aging. Enjoy a relaxing massage while reducing fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, cheeks, upper lip, and forehead.

12. Struggling with stress? Address it! 

Chronic stress negatively affects skin health. It increases cortisol production, which can lead to accelerated breakdown of collagen and elastin and the formation of wrinkles. Therefore, it's important to address stress issues, not just for the sake of your skin!