Ways To Reduce Wrinkles

Odette Odendaal
2 years ago

1. Don't Look Down At Your Phone

Image source Cleveland ClinicIt’s the norm to notice the onset of jowls as you age, due to the natural loss of elasticity but experts say it's occurring earlier due to our obsession with staring down at our phones.  It's been labelled as 'tech neck' so be aware and have all  your electronic devices in front of you rather than below you.
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2. Sleep On A Silk Pillowcase

Image source Cosmopolitan
We aren't trying to sound upper class here but, as sleep is crucial to skin repair, it's an idea to take heed and try and keep a youthful appearance. Some dermatologists claim to be able to tell which side you sleep on by looking at the furrows on your face.  By changing to a silk pillowcase from a rougher cotton mix one, you might be stay looking younger for a while longer!

3. Use An Exfoliating Face Wash

Image source DermstoreYou can unclog pores, remove dead skin and leave it looking fresh with the help of a good quality exfoliating cleanser.  Use natural ingredients such as bamboo, shea butter, seaweed and peppermint, to clean your skin and improve your complexion and the appearance of wrinkles.  Another plus is that it can help with acne.
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4. Avoid The Sun At ALL costs

 Image source CosmopolitanAs much as we tend to feel we look better with a tan, the sun is the main cause of wrinkles.  You can still get your dose of vitamin D by getting a few rays but minimise your exposure to the sun and don't bask in in it for hours.  It will dry the skin out and can damage the inner layers, contributing towards ageing.
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5. Don't smoke

Image source SpinPastaSome of the research is still considered to be controversial but more and more studies appear to confirm that cigarette smoke ages the skin.  This is mainly due to the release of an enzyme that breaks down collagen and elastin, the important components of the skin.
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6. Get Enough Sleep

  Image source 30SecondsYale dermatologist Nicholas Perricone, reported that if you don't get enough sleep, the body produces excess cortisol which is the hormone that breaks down skin cells and can cause wrinkles.  If you have a good quality sleep, you'll produce more of the hormone and this could help the skin remain thick and more elastic.
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7. Wear Sunscreen

 Image source The ListEven if you know you should wear sun screen but don't always, either because you can't be bothered or you think the sun isn't hot enough that particular day, it's time to change your way of thinking.  Sun screen will help protect against skin cancer and help prevent wrinkles.
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8. Don't Squint - get reading glasses

   Image source ClinicaMany professionals are of the opinion that any repetitive facial movements including squinting, overworks the facial muscles, forming a groove beneath the skin's surface.  This groove will eventually become a wrinkle.  Therefore, wear sunglasses in the sun and get your eyes tested in case you need glasses and this will prevent you from squinting.
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9. Sleep On Your Back

 Image source Business InsiderThe American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says that sleeping in a certain position night after night can lead to sleep lines, wrinkles that become etched into the skin and they don't disappear once you're up. Sleeping on your side may increase wrinkles on cheeks and the chin.  Try sleeping on your back to help avoid the risk of these lines.
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10. Eat More Oily Fish

Image source Daily ExpressNot only is salmon, as well as other oily fish, a great source of protein and one of the building blocks of healthy skin, it's also a great source of omega-3, an essential fatty acid.  Omega-3 helps nourish skin and keep it plump, thus helping reduce the risk of wrinkles.
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11. Ditch Coffee For Cocoa

 Image source SplenIn a study published by the 'Journal of Nutrition' in 2006, researchers found cocoa contained very high levels of the flavanols epicatechin and catechin which helped protect the skin from sun damage, affected hydration and improved the circulation to skin, making it look and feel smoother.
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12. Eat More Soy

 Image source QuoraResearch does show that certain properties of soy may help protect or heal some of the sun's photo-aging damage. In one recent study, it was reported that a soy-based supplement improved the skin's structure and firmness after 6 months of use.  Be sure to put tofu on your shopping list, next time you're at the supermarket!
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13. Eat More Fruit And Veg

 Image source Daily ExpressAntioxidant compounds, found in many fruit and vegetables, could well help fight damage caused by free radicals, the unstable molecules that can damage cells.  This can then assist skin in looking more radiant and aid in the protection against some effects of photo-ageing.
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14. Use Moisturizer

  Image source HimsMoisturiser used to be a cream that only females would use but now it's widely accepted that everyone, from teenage years onwards, should apply it, as part of their daily routine.  Skin that is moist looks better, feels better and therefore creases are far less noticeable.
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15. Don't Over-Wash Your Face

  Image source Self.comAccording to the University of Maryland Medical Centre, tap water strips skin of its natural oils and moisture that protect against wrinkles. Washing them off too often could result in you washing away that protection.  Also, unless your soap contains moisturisers, you should maybe use a cleanser instead.
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16. Use Natural Fruit Acids

 Image source GlaminatiAlpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are the natural fruit acids that lift away dead skin cells from the top layer of your face.  In turn, this reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, specifically around the eyes.  New evidence has shown that in higher concentrations, AHAs may help stimulate collagen production
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17. Use Retinoids

Image source The CutRetinoids are often used to help reduce lines, wrinkles and sun damage.  They contain vitamin A and the ingredients are found in good quality over the counter moisturisers.  There are some very expensive brands out there which contain the same active ingredients as a mid price range product so study them first before you make your purchase.
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18. Use Topical Vitamin C

 Image source Darsh NaturalsTopical vitamin C is thought to increase collagen production, protect from UVA and UVB rays, improve inflammatory conditions and correct pigmentation problems.  After using for a few weeks, you could notice a difference in how clear your skin looks and the appearance of your wrinkles.
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19. Botox

 Image source Everyday HealthMore popular than ever, Botox injections, a purified version of the Botulinum toxin, relaxes the muscle under the wrinkle, so allowing the skin on top to lie crease-free and smooth.  Botox is usually carried out around every 3 months to keep the area more youthful looking.
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20. Wrinkle Fillers

 Image source HealthlineA health professional will fill wrinkles with a variety of substances such as collagen, hyaluronic acid and other synthetic compounds.  The most popular treatments include Restylane, ArteFill and Juvederm.  Some individuals prefer this treatment to undergoing  a 'lift' as it's less intrusive.
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21. Chemical Peels

 Image source CosmopolitanWith this treatment, one of a variety of different chemicals is used to "burn" away the top layer of skin.  By doing this, it creates damage that causes the body to respond by making more collagen. The result is that you should end up with younger looking skin which will feel really smooth.
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22. Dermabrasion

Image source Daily ExpressDermabrasion is  vacuum suction device used together with a mild chemical crystal.  It helps remove the top layer of the skin cells to bring new, more evenly textured skin to the surface.  During this slightly uncomfortable process, fine lines and wrinkles seem to disappear or reduce.
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23. Stay Hydrated

 Image source Taste Of HomeDrinking water is essential for your body and for almost every function it does. Besides flushing toxins from your insides, aiding digestion and regulating your body temperature, water can also help keep your skin healthy and hydrated and help towards the production of collagen and the skin's elasticity.
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24. Relax Your Face

Image source Daily RitualEasier said than done!  Repeated facial movements like frowning or pursing of the lips, can speed up the formation of lines which then lead to wrinkles.  Many people have a furrowed brow when they are concentrating so try and get in the habit of relaxing your face.
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25. Wash Face Twice A Day

 Image source Melior ClinicsIf you are sweating heavily, say after a gym session or from wearing a helmet, it's important to wash your face at least twice a day.  The perspiration can irritate the skin, causing it to be itchy.  Once you scratch it, it will dry out and those fine lines will be more noticeable.
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26. Stop Using Skin Products That Sting

Image source Medical News TodayIf you try a new anti-wrinkle skin product and it stings your face, don't assume it is just the active ingredients doing their job.  Whilst that may be the case, you may be allergic to it and by irritating your face, it can make the skin look rough and older.  It's an idea to try it on your wrist first to see if there is a reaction.
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27. Protect Eyes From Blue Light

  Image source Medical News TodayComputer monitors, mobile phone screens and tablets all emit blue light, the same blue light that is present first thing in the morning.  This suppresses melatonin, the sleep hormone and can have a negative impact on repairing the skin and breaking down collagen.  Put that electronic device away at least an hour before bed time.
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28. Don't Use A Straw

 Image source Business Insider
Your dentist may have told you to use a straw to protect staining of your teeth and now we are saying the opposite.  Pursing your lips around a straw or drawing water from a plastic bottle can cause vertical furrows around the mouth and they could lead to wrinkles in the future.
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29. Don't Sit Close To A Heater

 Image source Which MagazineIn the winter, especially if we have just come inside out of the cold, it's nice and cosy to sit by the radiator or an open fire.  This may do your fingers and toes the world of good but the same cannot be said for your face.  It can become dried out, itchy and more prone to fine lines.  Use a thick creamy moisturiser in the winter and don't get too close to the heat.
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30. Don't Use Sunbeds

 Image source Daily MailWe have been warned for the last two decades about the dangers of sunbeds.  Occasional usage before a vacation or special occasion is ok but regular use could cause your skin to age with the UV artificial lights.  The issue with sun beds is that they could become addictive and you find yourself going more often to keep that tan.
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31. Eat Foods Rich In Antioxidants 

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imagesource/ twitter

Foods like Berries, Cherries, Pecans, Artichokes, Leafy Greens and Cacao are all foods rich in antioxidants. Try and get yourself down to your local farmers market and grab the superfoods that are in season. They're amazing for your skin - in every way possible.

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32. Supplements. Supplements. Supplements. 

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imagesource/ twitter

Vitamin C can brighten and tighten your skin and internally and externally. Vitamin A is an antioxidant which helps nourish your skin to keep it plump and Vitamin E and Selenium both work to improve your skins natural defences to help protect it from environmental stressors.

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33. Make Sure You Have A Good Sleep Routine 

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Lack of sleep can prematurely age your skin, and unfortunately a lot of people struggle with that nice, easy sleep routine they wish for. Make sure to get to bed at a reasonable time, the same time every night if you can stick to it!

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34. Use The Correct Skincare & Have The Right Routine 

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Always incoroporate the right ingredients into your skincare routine, like; Retinol, Vitamin C, Squalane, Rosehip Oil, Sea Buckthorn Oil, Peptides and CoQ10. They'll leave your skin looking youthful without having to resort to extreme measures.

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35. Minimize Stress As Much As Possible 

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imagesource/ twitter

Stress can be really bad on your body - your stomach, your brain and especially your skin. Cortisol (the stress hormone) has a large role to play on your mental and physical health so anything you can do to minimise it the better.

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36. Meditate

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Meditation can really help your mental and physical health, There are tonnes of apps you can download and videos on youtube to help you learn to meditate and what meditation works best for you. Find one you like and try it for a few minutes each day.

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37. Socialise With Friends As Much As You Can 

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Spending time with your loved ones is important and it allows your brain to release endorphins which makes you happier. When you're not working and having some time on your own, be sure to see your friends and take your mind off the stresses of life.
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38. Exercise Is Key

Kim Vs. Khloe: Which Kardashian Has the Better Workout?

imagesource/ insider

exercise plays a major role in reducing stress, anxiety and depression in people. It's the key to boosting endorphins and they're the feel good chemicals we need to live a happy life. Join a sports team if you don't want to go to the gym on your own!

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39. Home Remedies Can Help A Lot 

Natural Remedies for Illness | Natural Cures | Allina Health

imagesource/ alinehealth

There are plenty of ways you can boost your youthful glow at home. Give yourself a spa day once a week, use cold cucumber slices around your eyes, make some DIY face masks and use Aloe Vera which is full of natural anti-ageing properties.

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40. Eat Food Rich In Vitamins 

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Take your vitamins, both supplements and in your food. Citrus fruit, red and green peppers, potatoes, strawberries, blueberries and blackberries are all bursting in vitamins. All 14 vitamins appear in these foods - make sure to eat them whilst in season.

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41. Avoid Sleeping On Your Hands 

Why Putting Your Hands Down Your Pants Helps You Fall Asleep

imagesource/meflmagazine

"Another common mistake is sleeping with your hands pressed against your face," says Nazarian. "Much like flannel or thicker cotton sheets, our skin grips rougher surfaces and wrinkles with lateral pressure—even our hands along the facial skin."

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42. Use An Elevated Pillow 

Extra High Memory Foam Wedge Pillow with Bamboo from Rayon Fiber Cover by Lavish Home - Overstock - 24263039

imagesource/overstockuk

"Try to sleep with your head elevated on a pillow and avoid sleeping with your hands under your face," Nazarian reiterates. You can buy them on Amazon or Sleepgram and they come with inserts that you can add or remove to adjust the elevation. They're great for gut health too!

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43. Wear A Sleep Mask 

6 Best Sleep Masks for 2023 - CNET

imagesource/ CNET

Nazarian explains, "Nighttime masks do a good job of keeping skin in place while you sleep, so even if there is a lot of pressure, the skin does not fold on itself," Make sure to get yourself a silk eye mask - always make sure that you're gentle around your eye area as this is where the thinnest skin on your body is.

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44. Use An Extra Firm Pillow 

Wilko Anti Allergy Firm Pillows 2pk | Wilko

imagesource/wilko

"For a side sleeper, make sure to sleep with an extra-firm pillow and strategically position your head so the lower half of your face is literally off the pillow. Therefore, the face doesn't flatten out like a pancake," Rouleau suggests.

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45. Stimulate Collagen In You Skin

Coconut & Collagen Capsule | Beauty Supplements | Myvitamins

imagesource/myvitamins

 "Stimulating more collagen can help minimize these creases," suggests Nazarian. "This can be done with microneedling, various lasers (including Fraxel), and products.” Boosting collagen production will help fill those little fine lines you begin to notice in your late 20s! Always consult your doctor before you get anything like this done first though.

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46. Don’t Over Wash Your Face

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imagesource/ twitter

According to dermatologists, tap water can strip back the natural barrier oils and moisture to protect against wrinkles. If you’re constantly washing your face, you can end up ‘over washing’ and washing the protection away. Unless your soap contains moisturisers, you should always use cleansers too.

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47. Light Resurfacing

Skin Resurfacing: Benefits, Cost, Risks, Recovery, and More

imagesource/healthline

Laser or a pulsed diode removes the top layer of skin, which causes “wounding”. But this “wounding” will kick start your skin’s natural collagen production system resulting in smoother, younger looking skin. Skin that doesn’t have those stubborn, annoying fine lines.

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48. Hyaluronic Acid Should Be Your Best Friend

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 If you’re not into botox, or filler etc, then make sure you’ve got a strict skincare routine. Hyaluronic Acid fills your skin with moisture that it often needs. It’s a great way to add to your moisturiser without adding ‘oils’ to your skin. Hyaluronic serums like Vichy 89 are perfect.

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49. Cold Cucumber Slices

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 Cold cucumber slices are great for under your eye area - it’ll stop you from getting the puffiness. Just lie down, place them there for at least 15 minutes and relax. This is the perfect time to get your meditation done, or breathing exercises. Or just completely detach yourself from any stress you’ve had throughout the day.

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50. Aloe Is Always Your Friend

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 Have you got an Aloe plant? If not, get yourself one, cut the leaf off, squeeze it and apply it to your clean face and massage in with your fingers for a few minutes. Aloe has a lot of anti-ageing properties and it’ll leave your skin feeling refreshed and replenished. Try it out, its also great for sunburn.

 
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