What are the major contributors to skin wrinkles?

1) Frequent exposure to sun light: The human skin contains fibers called elastin which gets damaged by the ultraviolet light (UV). Elastin is responsible for the elasticity of our skin, the ability to snap back after stretching. When the elastin is damaged, the skin does not bounce back as effectively after a stretch (such as with gravity) and as a result we see wrinkles.

2) Cigarette smoking: Cigarette smoking is a major culprit when it comes to wrinkles. If you notice, smokers have more wrinkled skin than non smokers. Though scientists don’t clearly understand why this might be, it is suspected that the elastin in the skin might be damaged with cigarette smoking.

3) Age - as you grow older, your skin becomes thinner and loses fat. The skin becomes dry due to reduced sweating which in turn causes dry skin. The elastin in the skin also gets damaged with age.

With the sun light being the biggest reason for wrinkles,it is logical that good skin care begins with sun safety by limiting exposure to the sun. Experts recommend avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. as this is the period when the sun’s UV rays are the most harmful. Sunscreen is an important arsenal against sun damage. Most people don’t think about using sunscreen on a day to day basis, but that is what skin experts recommend regardless of whether you are a man or a woman. Use a broad spectrum sun screen rated SPF 15 or higher to get the best protection. Wide brim hat and sunglasses with UV block are another essential when venturing out into the sun.

As to cigarette smoking, that should be a easy one. Just quit smoking!