Anti Wrinkle Treatments - What You Need to Know 

Wrinkles are a natural effect of the aging process. To prevent wrinkles or to eliminate the ones that you may already have, there are a number of anti wrinkle treatments as well as certain foods that you can eat that slow the wrinkling process.

Wrinkles occur when the outer and second layers of the skin change. The outer layer, called the epidermis, becomes thinner and drier as we age. The cells in this layer slow their activities, including cell division. Cells that divide more slowly also slow down the ability of the skin to naturally repair itself.

The second layer in our skin is called the dermis and is made up of connective tissue. This tissue contains proteins such as collagen and controls the elasticity of the skin. Aging causes the dermis to also thin and the production of collagen decreases. This causes the skin to lose its tone and it begins to sag, causing lines and wrinkles to begin to form.

There are several natural factors than cause the formation of wrinkles. Heredity can cause certain individuals to be more prone to have wrinkles. Hormonal imbalances such as the ones that occur during menopause can also cause the skin to lose its elasticity.

External factors can also cause the formation of wrinkles. The sun and tanning can cause the skin to become permanently damaged. Smoking also causes wrinkles due to the fact that the decreased amount of oxygen in the smoker’s blood stream not allowing the skin to receive all the nutrients that it needs.

Certain foods can be eaten as part of an anti wrinkle treatment program. Red and dark orange vegetables such as carrots and beets are foods that prevent the formation of wrinkles due to the antioxidants and various vitamins that are found in them. Red peppers contain vitamin A, vitamin E, and bioflavonoids, which heal and moisten the skin. Tomatoes are also a beneficial food to prevent wrinkles due to the presence of lycopene in them. This substance also decreases the risk of developing cancer. Blueberries are an excellent source of antioxidants, while kale has vitamin A that can help fight the natural signs of aging. Salmon can reduce inflammation and can also moisten the skin due to the omega-3 fatty acids that it contains.

As well as these food products, there are a variety of anti wrinkle products that you can use as part of your treatment program. Sunscreen should be at the top of the list. This item can be purchased over-the-counter and should be applied generously anytime that you are out in the sun. There are also anti wrinkle creams that claim to be able to eliminate wrinkles that are already present. There is some question as to how effective these products are, however.

Prevention is the best anti wrinkle treatment available. By eating the proper foods, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding the sun can decrease your chances of developing wrinkles significantly.