What Causes Wrinkles and What You Can Do About It
There are a number of theories.
Some are more prevalent than others, particularly among the major cosmetic companies.
It seems likely that there are a number of factors that come into play, including genetics, which is not something that we can do anything about.
The oldest theory, but still widely adhered to, is this one: A habitual facial expression is what causes wrinkles.
Because of this theory, we have Botox injections which temporarily paralyze the facial muscles.
There is also a topically applied cream that has been out for a few years, now.
The makers claim that it also paralyzes those tiny muscles.
Facial expressions might be involved, but the best anti wrinkle creams do not relax or paralyze the thin muscles of the face, because it just isn't safe.
So, let's look at some of the other theories, those that are supported by dermatologists and other experts in the field, because they are measurable.
Reduced Production of New Cells and Fibers It has been shown that once you pass the age of thirty, there are fewer new cells in the skin layers.
It has also been noted that the production of collagen and elastin fibers decline.
The best anti wrinkle creams contain ingredients that help get production going again.
The reason that decreased production of cells and fibers may cause wrinkles is simple.
A wrinkle is something like a "break" in the outermost layer of the skin.
Your body can repair that break by replacing the cells and fibers.
It's the same process that causes scars to fade over time.
Lowered Levels of Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid is an amino that is responsible for the skin's firmness and elasticity.
The amount that is present in the skin is measurably lower in older people, so most products contain some hyaluronic acid.
The best anti wrinkle creams contain something different.
Researchers have found that there is an enzyme that breaks down the amino acid and that's the actual reason that levels decrease with age.
An extract from wakame kelp has been shown to inhibit the enzymatic activity, so the levels begin to rise again.
To understand the reason that lost firmness is a part of what causes wrinkles, think of a face lift.
Cosmetic surgeons "pull" the skin to make it tighter and a wrinkle disappears.
You can do the same thing without surgery.
Increased Levels of Free Radicals/Decreased Levels of Antioxidants Most dermatologists now believe that this imbalance is primarily responsible for all of the signs of aging.
So, the best anti wrinkle creams contain a number of effective antioxidants to replace those that have been lost.
Antioxidants prevent free radicals from damaging the cells.
They can also repair damage that has already occurred.
This was just a brief look at what causes wrinkles and what we can do about it.
Hopefully, it will help you find an effective product.