It used to be that skin care companies only targeted the elderly with anti-aging moisturizers, but by the time we hit our mid-20s, wrinkles begin to appear, and it’s not unusual to consider using so-called “preventive” youth creams.
We’re willing to spend a lot of money to smooth out these premature wrinkles, but why depend on remedial cosmetics when a healthier lifestyle can give better results at a fraction of the cost? As the cliché goes: Treat the problem, not the symptom.
A handful of bad habits are linked to premature wrinkles so try to minimize or avoid them completely.
Causes of Premature Wrinkles
- Sun exposure. The UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun can break down collagen in the skin and prevent repairs that replace the lost collagen.
- Smoking. The nicotine in cigarettes constricts the blood vessels in your skin, and because of the reduced blood flow, the skin does not get the oxygen and nutrients it needs to remain supple and wrinkle-free.
- Stress. When we feel overwhelming and constant stress, our bodies have to cope somehow, and some of the chemicals released may speed up the wrinkling process.
- Poor Diet. A lack of essential nutrients from food has been linked to the production of free radicals, which damage cells including skin cells.
The first three bad habits will require some time and commitment on your part, but the last can be easily remedied by eating foods that contain high omega fatty acid, antioxidants, and other nourishing vitamins.
Foods that Fight Premature Wrinkles
- Soy products are especially healthy for women, providing a source of natural proteins and phyto-nutrients.
- Fruits containing vitamin C and dietary fiber work from the inside to improve and strengthen the outer epidermal layer. Many fruits have the additional benefit of helping with weight loss!
- Salmon and other types of fish contain essential omega fatty acids. Concentrated amounts of omega 3 fatty acids are not only great for the skin, but contribute to better overall health.
Keep out of the sun, stop smoking, relax often, and eat well – just remember to do all these and those premature wrinkles will be kept in check.
Health and Love,
Summer
I now agree that sun exposure is the number 1 cause of premature wrinkles. That’s why my Mom keeps on reminding me to avoid it during the middle of the day, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Taking antioxidants will also help like vitamin C with Rosehips. Prevention is always better than cure.
Live and love life!!!
Being exposed to sun I think is one factor that affects me when it comes to having wrinkles. I’m the type of person who doesn’t want to put any cream on my face. So, more or less my face is not protected by UV rays. But, I try to eat healthy food as much as possible not only to prevent aging but also to keep in shape..
You guys crack me up … Everything in moderation I say. Even sun. I am sure wrinkles are hereditary. But I tell thee, I am glad (now I am in my 30s) that I did not hit the sun bed like so many of my friends did in my teen’s.
… When I gave up smoking, I did think I looked younger and more wrinkle free (not that I have many – the first signs really)… so there is definitely truth to that one!!!
And OF COURSE, I take pureandhealthy’s resveratrol
WHICH I do really think helps(my overall health) – I feel a difference. Its not huge, but definitely worth continuing!