What Causes Wrinkles?
While the old adage that your mother used to tell you about not making silly faces or else your face will stay that way is not entirely true, there actually is some merit to the sentiment. Facial muscle contractions, like when you smile, frown, or laugh, can lead to more prominent wrinkles over time. This is why the wrinkles around your cheeks and eyes, or crow’s feet, are often referred to as laugh lines. Wrinkles are normal, and everyone will get them sooner or later, but there are certain factors that can increase the number of wrinkles you have. Keep reading to learn more about what causes wrinkles and how a dermatologist can help you find relief.
Aging
Wrinkles are a typical part of the aging process. As you grow older, the skin becomes less elastic. This is because your skin cells slow down and skin starts to thin out. As it thins, skin becomes less stretchy and loses the ability to provide more structure. Skin becomes unable to retain moisture and produce oil, which also causes wrinkles in the skin.
Sun Damage
It is no secret that overexposure to the sun can cause skin damage. Facial skin damage causes wrinkles. To prevent this from happening, apply a facial moisturizer with SPF 30 or higher. Not only will a daily moisturizer help your skin stay youthful, but it can also protect your skin from everyday exposure to the sun that leads to wrinkles.
Smoking
In addition to all of the other health risks associated with smoking, tobacco use prohibits the natural production of collagen. Without collagen, your skin will have visibly more wrinkles, particularly around the mouth.
Since wrinkles are a natural part of growing older, there is no way to completely prevent them. However, there are anti-aging treatments in Salt Lake City available to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and reverse the effects of aging. The dermatologists at Swinyer – Woseth Dermatology are highly skilled in anti-aging treatments, including Botox and other skincare options. To schedule a consultation with a dermatologist, call 801-266-8841.