The Dos and Don’ts of Wrinkle Prevention

Looking young and beautiful is a priority for many of us. Not surprisingly, people of all ages may be worried about the development of wrinkles. In fact, 28% of women under the age of 25, and 54% of women between the ages of 35 and 44, say they regularly worry about their signs of aging.

Regardless of your age or gender, you’ll probably want to do all you can to keep your skin looking young. Here are a few dos and don’ts for wrinkle prevention…

To Prevent Wrinkles, Do…

• Wear Sunscreen and Moisturizer: You need to protect your skin from external factors like the sun, pollutants, and dryness that can cause damage. One way to do that is by applying sunscreen and moisturizer every day. Even if you aren’t going outside or the weather is humid, these should be a part of your daily routine. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher and a moisturizer that’s formulated with your skin type in mind. Your local dermatologist can provide you with product recommendations if you aren’t sure what to use.
• Get Lots of Sleep: Don’t underestimate the importance of a good night’s rest! Proper sleep can aid in cell turnover and recovery. But if you aren’t getting enough sleep, your skin can appear dull and unattractive. Prioritize getting between seven and nine hours of sleep every night by following a regular bedtime routine. Reducing stress with regular exercise and discontinuing the use of electronic devices at night can help you feel more relaxed and allow you to fall asleep more easily.
• See Your Local Dermatologist Regularly: Whether you’re dealing with persistent skin troubles or you simply want to preserve what you have for as long as possible, it’s a good idea to meet with a local dermatologist. These appointments can provide you with treatment options and product recommendations for any concerns you may have. Establishing a relationship with your local dermatologist can also be helpful if you’re concerned about more serious skin conditions like melanoma. But even if wrinkles are your only real worry right now, a local dermatologist can provide you with the guidance and care you need.

To Avoid Wrinkles, Don’t…

• Smoke or Drink Alcohol: Certain vices can take a toll on your skin. If you smoke tobacco or drink alcohol regularly, you could unknowingly be causing wrinkles to develop (along with many other health concerns!). Even being around smoke can remove nutrients from the skin. Notably, cigarettes also contain toxins that damage collagen; collagen normally keeps your skin tight, so smoking can have the opposite effect. Drinking alcohol will also dehydrate you, which can have negative consequences for the appearance of your skin.
• Spend Time in the Sun: If you live in an area that’s known for its sunny weather, like Florida, you might love the idea of soaking up those rays. Unfortunately, that’s one of the worst things you can do for your skin. Not only can sun exposure cause premature wrinkles due to damage to both collagen and elastic tissues, but it can also increase your risk of developing skin cancer. If you’ll be outside, be sure to supplement your sunscreen with a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing. Whenever possible, stay in the shade or wear proper sunscreen to avoid harmful ultraviolet exposure.
• Forget to Stay Hydrated: We mentioned above that alcohol can dehydrate your skin. But even if you abstain from alcohol, you’ll still want to be concerned about hydration. Your body needs water to function at its best — and even if you apply moisturizer diligently, you’ll still need to drink lots of water to get that glowing complexion. Aim to drink anywhere from six to eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin properly hydrated and stave off wrinkles.

Now that you’re familiar with the dos and don’ts of wrinkle prevention, you can make more informed decisions to protect your skin. For more information about reducing the signs of aging with support from your local dermatologist, please contact Mahoney Dermatology Specialists today.