It’s an unfortunate consequence of getting older – your skin makes less collagen and elastin, becomes thinner and drier, and is less able to defend itself against external damage. The result is wrinkles. Your genetics, your lifestyle and environmental factors will determine when you get wrinkles and how many there will be. But once you have them, is there an easy, non-surgical way to get rid of them?
Billions of dollars are spent every year on creams and serums that cosmetics companies say will help you reduce your wrinkles – but do they work? The answer is… kind of. Topical creams may help you to reduce the appearance of fine lines by hydrating your skin and making it plump up a little. Dermatologists recommend using products containing Vitamin C or Retinol.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help reduce the damage done to your skin by free radicals in the environment, slowing down the ageing process.
Retinol is derived from Vitamin A, and it stimulates your skin to make more collagen and new blood vessels, improving skin tone and the appearance of fine lines.
Other ingredients which can help the appearance of your skin include hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid and alpha-hydroxy acid.
However, it pays to bear in mind that there is no magic bullet. While creams may slightly improve the appearance of wrinkles, they are unlikely to get rid of any deep lines, they may take up to three months to show results, and if you stop using them, their effects will wear off.
Other things you can do to ensure your skin stays as smooth as possible are:
• Use a high-rated SPF on your face to prevent premature ageing caused by UV radiation.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat foods that are rich in antioxidants, beta-carotene and good oils like tomatoes, dark leafy greens, berries, oily fish, nuts and avocados.
• Limit your intake of refined sugar.
• Stop smoking.