What Causes Wrinkles

Wrinkles appear as lines, folds, creases, and ridges on the skin. They are most apparent on the face, neck, and hands. Although they are not harmful, many people seek wrinkle treatment such as fillers, injectables, and even surgery. Laser skin resurfacing has become an effective treatment method. There are many reasons skin can become wrinkled, including:

Age

We all develop wrinkles with age. As we get older, collagen production decreases, causing the skin to lose structure and elasticity. A reduction in naturally occurring oils can dry out your skin and form creases. And when fat layers underneath become thinner, the skin can become loose and saggy. Various factors are therefore in play.

Movement

Any facial expression can cause a wrinkle, no matter how young you are. It’s a known fact that whenever a facial muscle moves, it causes a groove to form under the skin. Repeated squinting, frowning, and even smiling can cause fine lines to begin to form. When you’re younger, the only difference is skin springs back more easily because it is more flexible.

Ultraviolet (UV) Light

One of the most significant environmental factors leading to wrinkles, UV light comes from sunlight and tanning booths. Ultraviolet radiation breaks down collagen and elastin fibers deep in the skin, which serve as supporting connective tissue. Your skin then becomes less flexible and weaker. The more UV light you’re exposed to at a younger age, the more likely your skin will wrinkle and sag prematurely.

Smoking

Chemicals released from the burning of tobacco accelerate the aging process. Smoking cigarettes, therefore, contribute to wrinkle formation. It’s believed this process is brought on by the way smoking affects the skin’s blood supply. But even if you have smoked for a while, quitting can help improve skin tone and texture.

Poor Diet

Keeping your skin nourished can ward off wrinkles at least temporarily. Processed meats high in saturated fats and nitrates can cause inflammation, which can affect the skin. However, foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants can protect it, including many fruits and vegetables. Broccoli, spinach, nuts, sweet potatoes, and avocado can be particularly replenishing.

Dryness

Plump skin cells will quickly shrivel up when dry. If your skin is always dry, it can lead to signs of premature aging. However, using a moisturizer can improve skin health and even mask small lines and creases. Ultimately, it won’t prevent wrinkling.

Lack of Skin Care

You’re bound to start seeing a wrinkle or two as you get older. But you can take care of your skin by using broad-spectrum sunscreen when outside and skincare products with sunscreen included in them. The sunscreen you use should have an SPF of 30 or higher. If you work outside, cover up your skin with long sleeves, pants, and wide-brimmed hats.

Can Wrinkles Be Fixed?

The aging process cannot be reversed, but there are various forms of wrinkle care. Depending on your skin a good moisturizer can reduce lines and creases. Botox, chemical peels, and surgery have been treatments people have sought, but they come with side-effects and potential downtime. At the Laser & Dermatology Institute of California, we offer a less painful and faster approach by using advanced lasers for skin rejuvenation. We can use heat, acoustical energy, radiofrequency energy, or intense pulsed light to treat wrinkles and other skin problems.

Find a dermatologist near you at LDI LDI of Covina. To schedule an appointment, call 866-478-7837 or use our online self-scheduling system.