Wrinkles have a reputation for creeping up on us when we least expect it. Once you start noticing them… well you find yourself here reading a blog on how to prevent wrinkles. That’s okay, we’re here to help!
Just because you may already have wrinkles, doesn’t mean it’s too late to start preventing future wrinkles. Here are the top 3 healthy habits to prevent wrinkles:
#1 – Rain or shine, summer or winter, put on the sunscreen and shade your face
We sound like a broken record talking about how important sunscreen is, but honestly, the sun and its UV rays are the number one reason your skin is aging faster than maybe it should be. It doesn’t matter if it is snowing out or raining, or blazing heat, those pesky UV rays can get through the clouds. According to Dr. Ashley Cavalier, board-certified dermatologist with Atlantic Shore Dermatology, a Forefront Dermatology practice, “By taking minimal actions like wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher, wearing a hat with a wide brim and sticking to shaded areas, you can drastically reduce the damage the sun is doing to your skin, and in turn, reduce the rate your skin will age.”
#2 – Watch your sugar and carb intake
Do you have a sweet tooth or love pasta night? Well, we have news for you. Sugar and refined carbohydrates cause transient elevation of blood sugar levels. These “sugar spikes” can damage and tangle your collagen by causing glycation and cross-linking of the collagen fibers in your dermis, the deep layer of your skin. This weakening of the collagen support structure leads to less pliable skin, sagging, and wrinkles. Instead, try to choose healthier options as much as possible. Curb your cravings by drinking more water and eating foods high in antioxidants such as blueberries, cranberries, grapes, and spinach.
# 3 – Get your beauty sleep
“The phrase “beauty sleep” is coined for a reason,” noted Dr. Cavalier. “Sleep allows your body a chance to heal and repair. It’s also the time when your skin cells produce most of your collagen. Your sleep positions can also affect the potential for wrinkles. By sleeping on your face, the repeated compression restricts blood flow to your skin, resulting in weaker skin that is more likely to develop “sleep creases” and wrinkles. Lastly, always remember to wash your face before bedtime. Leaving makeup and environmental dirt, which you likely don’t realize is even there, on your skin all night will never do your skin any favors.”
Bonus! Do you want to know the best way to treat your current wrinkles? We’ve got you covered:
Anti-wrinkle Creams
Anti-wrinkle creams are designed to both prevent wrinkles from occurring and to reduce the appearance of those that have formed. Many anti-aging creams are known as “pro-collagen” creams that contain ingredients to promote your skin’s collagen production, which naturally declines as you age. Topical retinoids are a good first-line treatment for photo-aging. Anti-wrinkle creams containing antioxidants, vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, or plant extracts are also good adjuncts to retinoids. Check out our e-commerce store for some of our anti-aging skincare products!
Chemical Peels
“Chemical peels are a great, non-invasive option to help remove dull surface cells, improve fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce sunspots and discoloration,” Dr. Cavalier described. “Chemical peels enhance collagen production and remove the top layer of the skin revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion. There are multiple different strengths of chemical peels that range from surface-level peels to deeper peels. A consultation with your dermatologist will help determine which type of chemical peels will best target your needs.”
Preventative Neuromodulators such as Botox® and Dysport®
Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau ®, Xeomin® are fantastic cosmetic treatments for facial wrinkles. “These products are purified substances safely derived from bacteria and are used to relax facial muscles, softening the expressions that cause wrinkling of the skin over time,” explained Dr. Cavalier. “They are commonly placed on the forehead, frown lines and “crow’s feet” next to eyes. These neuromodulators can also be used off-label on the lower face with the “lip flip” which can relax the skin above the top lip to smooth the lines and give the lip a fuller look. These injection procedures are best performed at the office of a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in performing these techniques. He or she will be able to determine what is best for you once learning what your skin goals are.”
Dermal Fillers
“Dermal fillers are another great option to reduce wrinkles and give a more youthful appearance,” added Dr. Cavalier. “Instead of relaxing the muscles, they fill the lines and creases to smooth your skin.” Fillers are versatile and can be used to lift the cheeks and jowls, and smooth and soften the lines on the lower face. Fillers can last between 6 to 18 months, giving you fast results at a fraction of the cost of a facelift. Depending on your skin goals, it is common for neuromodulators and dermal fillers to be used in conjunction with each other.
Microneedling, Laser and Light-based Energy Devices
Microneedling, Laser or light-based energy devices are effective collagen-boosting medical procedures to firm and regenerate the skin. These work by triggering the healing cascade in your skin to stimulate new and youthful collagen. While in some cases, a single treatment will take care of a patient’s concerns, most require a series of treatments to produce the most satisfying results.
If you would like to say bye-bye to your wrinkles, the skin health experts at Forefront Dermatology are ready to help. Find a Forefront Dermatology clinic near you today and schedule a skincare consultation to find the best plan for your skin goals.
