Wrinkle Causes

There are several causes of wrinkles in human skin. Some of the causes can be addressed and other causes can’t. Wrinkles obviously develop most commonly with age meaning that what we do over time affects the number and severity of wrinkles we get. The causes we’ll look at here are exposure to the sun or artificial sunlight.

Wrinkles and Sun Exposure

Being exposed to the sun for excessive periods of time is one of the biggest known causes of wrinkles. There are several reasons for this. First, being in the sun causes us to squint causing the wrinkling patterns that often develop around the eyes, between the eyes and around the mouth. Secondly, and most importantly over exposure to the sun ages the skin prematurely causing a breakdown in the underlying structure that helps keep skin soft and smooth.

As skin is exposed to more and more sunlight it becomes harder and less pliable. This contributes to an exaggerated effect from folds caused by smiling, frowning and the like because the skin is less elastic and thus less able to return to its original shape after being folded. And of course sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer. Don’t be fooled into thinking that artificial light is better for you than the sun, it’s not.

To avoid damage by the sun and squinting wrinkles follow these easy steps:

-Wear sunglasses year round!

-Wear sunscreen whenever you plan to be in intense sun for more than 5-10 minutes. (SPF 15 minimum)

-Fairer skin requires more protection. (SPF 30+)

-Don’t go to tanning booths or salons.

-You do need some sun exposure for a healthy body so don’t avoid it altogether.

In the end it is your responsibility to protect your skin. Avoiding over exposure to the sun is key for skin longevity and health and that means for avoiding wrinkles as well. Protecting your skin can help keep you wrinkle free well into your 50’s and beyond.