Wrinkles

Wrinkles are a natural part of the aging process. They occur as the skin gets thinner, drier, and less elastic. The ability of the skin to protect itself is reduced as we age, leading to wrinkles, creases, and lines on the skin.

Causes

The most significant cause of wrinkles is the natural aging process. As people get older, their skin gets thinner, drier, and less elastic, and less able to protect itself from damage. This leads to wrinkles, creases, and lines on the skin. Other factors can contribute to the development of wrinkles, including sun exposure, smoking, dehydration, and certain medications.

Aging

Aging is the most significant cause of wrinkles. As people age, their skin cells divide more slowly, and the inner layer of skin, called the dermis, begins to thin. The network of elastin (the protein which allows skin to stretch) and collagen fibers (the major structural proteins in the skin), which support the outer layer, loosen and unravel, causing depressions on the surface. With aging, skin also loses its elasticity, is less able to retain moisture, oil-secreting glands are less efficient and the skin is slower to heal. All of these contribute to the development of wrinkles.

Sun exposure

Exposure to ultraviolet light, UVA or UVB, from sunbathing, tanning booths, and outdoor sports increases the chance of developing wrinkles earlier. UV light breaks down the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. These fibers form the skin's connective tissue. They are located under the surface of the skin, and they support the skin. Breaking down this layer causes the skin to become weaker and less flexible. The skin starts to droop, and wrinkles appear.

Smoking

Smoking accelerates the aging process and produces early wrinkles. The nicotine in cigarettes causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin. This impairs blood flow to your skin. With less blood flow, your skin doesn't get as much oxygen and important nutrients, such as vitamin A.

Prevention

While it is impossible to completely prevent wrinkles, some measures can help delay their onset. These include avoiding excessive sun exposure, using sunscreens, not smoking, staying well hydrated, and using moisturizers.

Treatment

There are several treatments available for wrinkles, including topical retinoids, antioxidants, alpha hydroxy acids, moisturizers, and cosmetic procedures such as laser resurfacing, botox injections, and fillers.

See also

• Skin aging
• Photoaging
• Dermatology

Wrinkles Resources
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