Buh-Bye Wrinkles
I think we can all pretty much agree that wrinkles are cute on pugs and baby elephants, not so much on our faces. Unfortunately though, they are a natural part of aging. Here's a handy dandy list of the worst wrinkle culprits, and the best ways to keep those pesky lines at bay.
Top Wrinkle Offenders
UV Exposure
Whether from the sun or a tanning bed, UV exposure accounts for a whopping 80% of wrinkles. It breaks down collagen, causes discoloration and age spots, and damages DNA.
Smoking
Smoking reduces the blood supply to the skin, reducing the amount of oxygen and nutrients it receives.
Sleep Habits
Sleeping too little can cause reduced quality of the skin by producing too much cortisol, which breaks down skin cells. Also, stomach and side sleepers are prone to more wrinkles from smushing their face into the pillow.
Facial Contractions
Smiling, frowning, squinting and any expressions made on a daily basis can lead to wrinkles.
Best Wrinkle Busters
The answers to the above problems are obvious: Use sunscreen, stop smoking, sleep more and on your back (or use a satin pillowcase; it's not as harsh on your skin), and stop making funny faces at people. Just kidding on the last one, but you can do things like wearing sunglasses so you don't squint.
There are also topical remedies that can help as well. And luckily, we have you covered!
Vitamin C
Vitamin C promotes collagen production to eradicate wrinkles, protects against UVA and UVB rays, helps reverse sun damage, calms skin, and lightens age spots.
AHAs
Alpha hydroxy acids are made from natural fruit acids and reduce wrinkles by taking a layer of that wrinkly skin off. AHAs also stimulate collagen production. Look for glycolic acid, lactic acid, or citric acid.
Retinol
A natural form of Vitamin A, retinol reduces collagen breakdown, thickens the skin, and evens out muddled skin tones. And, it helps heal acne! Bonus!