For most, wrinkles develop between the ages of 40 and 50 as the skin loses moisture and thickness.
As you get older, your skin naturally becomes weaker, less hydrated, and less stretchy, causing lines to form.
Other causes include:
- exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, like sunlight
- smoking
- squinting, smiling, frowning
- lack of sleep
- pollution
- stress
- excessive cosmetics
- poor diet
- genetics
Sun exposure appears to be the biggest cause, especially in people with fair skin. A
Wrinkles may also be caused in part by smoking and an unbalanced diet.
Over-the-counter (OTC) skin creams containing vitamin-A derived retinoids, antioxidants, and a protein called collagen can reduce fine wrinkles and even out skin texture and color.
So before you seek medical treatment, you might want to try home remedies, some of which are scientifically proven to improve the appearance of wrinkles.
Generally speaking, there are two major types of wrinkles.
Dynamic wrinkles
These develop from repeated facial movements. If you pucker your lips around a straw frequently, for example, you might get lip lines.
Static wrinkles
These result from a loss of elasticity and the takeover of gravity. Wrinkles that come with jowls are static.
There are plenty of simple home remedies that may help prevent wrinkles.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera has numerous healing properties. An older
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Banana mask
Bananas contain natural oils and vitamins that can boost skin health.
Experts recommend applying banana paste to the skin:
- Mash a quarter of a banana until it becomes a smooth paste.
- Put a thin layer of the banana paste on your skin.
- Allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
Superfoods
Foods rich in health-benefitting nutrients are often referred to as “superfoods.” There are many superfoods that appear to prevent wrinkles and boost overall health.
Many superfoods, such as those in the following list, may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles:
- artichokes
- avocadoes
- chia seeds
- cinnamon
- egg whites
- ginger
- miso
- oatmeal
- salmon
- sardines
- sweet potatoes
- tomatoes
- walnuts
Egg whites
While egg whites might contribute to a small improvement in the skin’s appearance, the thin membrane that separates the white from the shell is more effective.
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However, people who are allergic to eggs should avoid using them to treat their wrinkles.
Essential oils
Applying small amounts of essential oils mixed with a carrier oil on wrinkles may help reduce them. Often, essential oils are applied in specific combinations that heal skin without causing irritation, so long as they’re diluted with a carrier oil.
Carrier oils include:
- almond oil
- fractionated coconut oil
- argan oil
- evening primrose oil
Here are some essential oils that may help improve the appearance of wrinkles when used in different combinations with a carrier:
Some people are sensitive to essential oils, which are highly concentrated. Before using an essential oil, perform a patch test:
- Apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist and wait 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, check if there’s any sign of irritation.
- Avoid using it if you experience redness, burning, or stinging.
Always use a carrier oil when applying essential oils.
Massage
Many people turn to massage to prevent and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. In fact, the use of a handheld facial massage device may help prevent wrinkles by increasing proteins that keep the skin smooth.
A daily facial massage for 3 to 5 minutes done with your fingers can give the same effects on the skin. It can also reduce stress, a common cause of wrinkles.
Many spas and massage salons offer facial massage treatments. At home, you can give yourself a facial massage by applying firm pressure with your fingers to either side of your face and moving them in circular strokes.
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Olive oil
Research suggests that consuming olive oil may protect the skin from developing more wrinkles. Olive oil and its byproducts, like the stems and leaves, contain compounds that can increase the skin’s collagen levels.
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The researchers also found that vegetables, like broccoli and tomatoes, and legumes, such as lentils and beans, may have a similarly protective effect against wrinkles.
All of these foods can be part of a balanced diet, so it’s safe for most people to consume them. But be cautious and read labels if you have any food allergies.
Topical vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps create collagen in the skin. It can be found naturally in many fruits and vegetables, such as rosehips, chili peppers, guava, and kale.
Applying a topical gel containing vitamin C can help improve the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of sun damage on the skin.
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All people in the study showed less wrinkling and signs of sun damage on the side of their faces treated with vitamin C gel. The vitamin C gel hydrated the skin, increased collagen production, and decreased inflammation.
Minerals
Like vitamins, minerals are micronutrients found in the foods you eat that your body needs in small amounts. In the skin, minerals help filter sunlight, promote healing, and prevent damage.
Zinc and selenium are two minerals that are especially important for skin health. Using a topical cream containing zinc and selenium can block some UV radiation, helping to protect the skin from the sun damage that causes wrinkles.
Dietary supplements containing selenium may provide the same protective effects. However, if you eat a healthy diet, chances are you get enough zinc and selenium.
Zinc can be found in:
- oysters
- beans
- almonds
- oatmeal
- peas
- cheese
Foods containing higher amounts of selenium include:
- sunflower seeds
- yogurt
- spinach
- oatmeal
- bananas
Getting too much zinc and selenium can harm your health, so talk with a doctor before adding supplements to your diet.
Probiotics and yogurt
Research suggests that regularly consuming probiotics, such as those found in yogurt or sold as supplements, may reduce the appearance of wrinkles and boost the skin’s overall health.
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Silk or copper-oxide pillowcases
Preventing and reducing the appearance of wrinkles may be as easy as choosing to sleep with the right pillowcase.
Silk contains proteins and is hypoallergenic, so it’s easy on the skin. A copper-oxide pillowcase can reduce fine lines in the skin.