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Although it’s definitely not fair, wrinkles are a sign of getting older and an indication that the years have taken a toll on your skin.  As you age your collagen production slows down along with the skin’s ability to heal itself.  The years also cause your cell turnover to slow way down while the skin begins to thin and become sensitive and fragile.

Strong, healthy skin is the secret to wrinkle prevention.  Taking steps to understand what weakens your skin and knowing what you can do to strengthen it will help you prevent and diminish wrinkles; giving you younger and more vibrant skin in the process.

The Sun

Sun exposure is the number one cause of premature aging.  The ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun damages and weakens your collagen fibers which in turn causes wrinkles.  UV radiation exposure also produces an excess of enzymes called metalloproteinases.  This over production of metalloproteinase breaks down collagen and elastin.  An SPF moisturizer used daily will drastically help to prevent sun damage.  However, if you are looking for a way to reverse damage that has already occurred then you may want to consider red light therapy.  This technology penetrates deep into the layers of your skin where the light wavelengths repair, heal, rejuvenate, and renew; encouraging younger acting skin.

Free Radicals

Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that have only one electron instead of the normal two.  Because they are unstable they steal molecules from healthy molecules in hopes of becoming “normal.”  This destructive nature causes a domino effect.  This process severely damages skin cells along with their functions.  Free radicals occur when you are exposed to pollution, smoke, toxins, and the harmful rays of the sun.  Loading your body with antioxidant rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and beans, will help to protect your cells and prevent free radical damage. 

Hormones

A change in your hormones may also play a part in wrinkle formation.  A shift in hormones, such as during menopause, can alter your skin’s metabolism causing weakened collagen and elastin formation.  Menopause also causes a decrease in estrogen production which can drastically lower collagen levels resulting in wrinkles.  Maintaining estrogen levels within the skin may help to reduce wrinkles.  Foods that contain phytoestrogens, such as soy and legumes, may help to stimulate collagen production in menopausal women.

As we age we become wiser to the ways of the world, but we don’t have to show it in our faces.  Take steps to educate yourself as to what is causing your wrinkles and then take action to prevent and erase them.  You deserve to look as young as you feel so take care of yourself both inside and out and enjoy the fruits of your wisdom.