What Causes Wrinkles?

The following factors are the most significant causes for skin wrinkles:

Aging

Wrinkles are a result of the natural process of aging. As we get older, skin cells divide at a slower rate. Our skin contains an inner layer called the dermis which begins to wear thin. The proteins that kept skin structure and allow your skin to stretch with movement (elastin and collagen) begin to unravel causing depressions on the surface. With age, skin also loses its ability to retain moisture as oil-secreting glands are less efficient and the skin heals itself at a slower rate. All of these factors contribute to the development of wrinkle lines.

Facial Muscle Contractions

Lines between the eyebrows and lines spreading out from eye corners (crow’s feet) are believed to develop due to very small muscle contractions. These are normal contraction you would do unconsciously or out of reflex such as smiling, squinting, frowning and other habitual facial expressions. Over time, these expressions along with gravity can contribute to sagging or dropping such as in eyelid areas.

Sun Damage

Ultraviolet radiation can result in premature signs of aging in skin. This is commonly referred to as photo aging. The ultraviolet rays that cause photo aging destroy collagen fibers causing an excess production in abnormal elastin. Photo aging also causes an enzyme called metalloproteinase to be produced. This enzyme produces and reforms the collagen causing some of the healthy collagen fibers to be damaged. This results in an abnormal formation of fibers referred to as solar scars. Wrinkles manifest when this process occurs over and over.

Smoking

Healthy skin will perpetually regenerate and heal. Old collagen is broken down and removed while new collagen is being produced as part of the skin’s renewing cycle. Studies shave shown that smoke causes a significant reduction new collagen production. When there is a lack of new collagen production, what follows is the onset of wrinkles.

There are some effective all-natural products on the market today featured on this website. These products are formulated to significantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Along with using these products, be careful not to overexpose yourself to the sun. If you smoke, consider quitting right away if you want to help reduce the appearance of future signs of aging.