Wrinkling of the skin is a natural part of aging. But there is a common (and not altogether negative) desire to retain the marks of youth into middle and older age. Among the many approaches and factors in countering wrinkles, a variety of natural products stand out as potential aids to this end.
The Causes of Wrinkles
Wrinkles occur naturally as we age, and are essentially universal. It is not possible to truly eliminate or avoid wrinkles altogether (without significant surgical alterations). Yet, many people would choose to diminish them out of a commonplace desire to look and feel young.
There are a few reasons that wrinkles develop over time, but the most significant reason is certainly the mere process of aging.
Skin cells tend to divide and replicate themselves more slowly as a person ages. The fibers which make up the dermis (skin), composed of collagen and elastin, break down. As a result, skin becomes loose and starts to sag.
Aside from aging,
excessive UV light exposure can damage skin over time, causing
photoaging, or a form of premature aging. Contractions of the muscles, specifically the facial muscles, lead to wrinkles as well. All of these factors have their effect over long periods of time, and together can cause significant wrinkling and other damage.
Preventing Wrinkles
A person's
genetics plays a significant role in the nature and extent of the wrinkles he or she develops. But this does not mean that they have no control over wrinkles. Avoiding excessive and
prolonged sun exposure, staying sufficiently hydrated, and avoiding tobacco use all help prevent wrinkles.
Moisturizing skin is a common way to help treat and prevent wrinkles, too.
Washing your face twice daily, including after times spent sweating, will help as well.
Excellent Natural Approaches to Rid Wrinkles
All of the following products are natural, easy to use, and not altogether likely to cause side effects if used properly. It is still important to talk to your dermatologist before using any of these supplements.
Vitamin C is important for skin, and supplementing with Vitamin C can
help keep skin resilient. It can help repair discoloration and fine lines that develop as a result of UV damage. A topical cream works well, and an oral supplement can also be beneficial.
Moisturizing your skin is beneficial for preventing wrinkles when used regularly. It's especially useful in middle and older age, when skin tends to be drier than it used to be. There is research to support using a moisturizer that contains both hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to prevent and treat wrinkles.
Selenium is a mineral element that contributes to healthy skin and. Taking selenium in its supplement form can be of benefit, primarily because of its
antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help get rid of free radicals, which speed up aging of the skin, thereby reducing the likelihood of developing wrinkles.
Copper is another mineral important for healthy skin. Copper contributes to the formation of
collagen and elastin, which make up the skin. A cream containing copper is recommended over an oral supplement, because only a small amount is usually needed for adequate supplementation.
Beta-carotene is a carotenoid which occurs naturally in some fruits and vegetables. Having enough
beta-carotene helps to defend against damage from UV light, and to repair skin from such damage as well. It is thought that beta-carotene actually helps repair skin at its most basic level in reducing UV damage to DNA.
Aloe vera ointment is beneficial in that it helps your skin retain its healthy, natural elasticity. Skin is naturally elastic, so it tends to hold its shape, but this elasticity degrades over time. Aloe vera contains malic acid, which helps preserve
elasticity. Gently rubbing aloe vera gel on clean skin, and then allowing it to remain for 15 or so minutes before gently washing the skin once again, is ideal.
If you consider preventing wrinkles as a priority, consider the above natural supplements. If you treat your skin right over time, then you can help preserve your skin. Incorporating natural products to keep your skin healthy can help your skin go the extra mile, and maybe even stave off wrinkles.
