Wrinkles

Many a times, a person’s age can be guessed by just looking at his or her face, specifically the skin. The lines and creases that appear on your skin as you grow old are known as wrinkles. Wrinkles may become deep crevices or furrows and noticeable around your eyes, mouth and neck. Wrinkles can be divided into two categories: fine, surface lines and deep furrows.

It is quite natural for wrinkles to appear as a person grows old. Although, wrinkles are often said to be a sign of experience and wisdom, it is something that many of us do not want, especially those who are extremely particular about their physical appearance.

Age: In your younger years, your face looks plump and healthy because of the fat in the inner layers of your skin, but as you age the fat begins to lessen leaving the skin loose, saggy and making the lines and crevices more prominent.

As you grow older, skin Cells divide more slowly and the inner layer begins to thin, losing some of its elasticity. Your skin becomes more fragile, gradually losing its ability to retain moisture.The skin’s oil-secreting glands become less efficient. The healing process of your skin takes longer too.

Ultraviolet rays: The elasticity of your skin is due to connective tissues like the Collagen and Elastin fibers that are present in the inner layers of your skin. Exposure to UV light damages these connective tissues and makes the skin less flexible, weak, saggy and wrinkled. Ultraviolet radiations cause premature wrinkling and speed up the natural process of aging.

Smoking: Smoking contributes to wrinkles due to its heat and its effect on the blood supply around the lips.

Facial expressions: Repeated simple facial expressions and movements like smiling, frowning, habitual facial expressions and squinting may cause fine lines and further lead to wrinkles.

Heredity: Wrinkles or early wrinkling of the skin may sometimes run in families.

Occupational and recreational habits: Certain occupations like farming, sailing, golfing, using tanning booths, etc. may speed up the process of skin aging due to sun damage.Some of the factors mentioned above can be controlled. The most important preventive measures are to minimize exposure to sun and quit smoking.