Wrinkles are fine lines or creases found on the skin
and which give it a lined or uneven appearance. They are most commonly found on the hands and the face. There are a myriad of reasons behind skin creases, but the top 5 reasons why we get wrinkles are outlined below. Essentially, the major cause of these unwanted lines is as a result of the loss of elasticity and collagen because of aging, skin damage, and/or weight loss.
Aging
The first potential cause is simply the passage of time. As we age, our skin undergoes several major changes. The skin cells found on the outer skin layer will start to multiply more gradually, making it hard for the skin to regenerate naturally and this leads to thinning of the epidermis. The skin will become fragile and papery and will become a significant telltale sign when it comes to water loss. It goes without saying that if your skin cannot retain moisture; it will lead to dehydration and thus lead to formation of creases on the skin.
Loss of skin elasticity
The second reason is when the skin loses its elasticity; another natural process that takes place over time. Just as a rubber band will gradually become less stretchy the more it is used, skin will eventually become less pliable as a person grows older.
Muscle Movement
Habitual muscle movements such as frowning can speed up the process of wrinkle formation and after a while the creases will become permanent. A good example of is the common forehead skin folds, above the bridge of the nose, as well as those found in hands which occur during abundant hand muscle use over your lifetime.
Loss of nutrients
Our skin’s supply of vital nutrients is also affected by the natural aging process, and such things as smoking can exacerbate the situation. As we age, the folds will become more pronounced because of the thinning of fat cells. Once this happens, they will no longer perform their important function as natural wrinkle fillers which keep the skin tight, plump and youthful.
Sunlight
The fifth known reason why we get wrinkles is because of exposure to sunlight, particularly in regions where the ozone layer is known to be very thin. The best course of action to avoid these skin folds is to wear high SPF sunscreen to protect our skin not from only wrinkles, but also prevents life threatening conditions such as skin cancer.
Caring for your skin can go a very long way in reducing the damages brought about by aging. Skin physicians strongly advise us to moisturize our skin regularly to ensure it remains elastic and moist all the time. Great care should also be taken to ensure proper nutrition and hydration, so as to ensure the skin remains nourished with water and vitamins all the time.
Additional measures to take include avoiding such skin-damaging substances as cigarettes and alcohol consumption, and ensuring we get enough sleep to give our muscles time to rejuvenate, relax and slow down the process of wrinkle formation. When all is said and done though, we should know that wrinkles are a natural part of aging.
There are various treatments available in the market that can help reduce the depth, size, and visibility of fine lines ranging from home remedies to cosmetic procedures. Ultimately, the best treatment option will be determined by the method we use, our budget, the duration in which we use it, and our naturally progressing age.
