What Causes Wrinkles?
The causes of wrinkles can be traced directly to how we age. We age in two ways: intrinsically, that is, normal physical aging which we are powerless to stop; and extrinsically, that is, by being affected by environmental conditions, some of which we can control.
Intrinsic Aging
This is the scientific term for the aging that occurs naturally in our body. Our genes influence this aging process, which is why some people experience drooping eyelids while others get neck bands, some people get bony and veiny hands while others develop jowls. If we take a look at how our parents and grandparents have aged, then we can gain insight into our individual age prevention strategies. There is not a lot that can be done to alter this aging trigger, but being aware and proactive to address these aging predispositions early on can be helpful.
There is also the natural aging that occurs whereby the body’s functions begin to slow down. For the skin, this refers to the cell renewal process and the production of glycoaminoglycans that produce moisture and enzymes such as superoxide dismutase that protect our cells. Hormonal changes such as menopause also influence how our skin ages.
Intrinsic aging affects our skin in several ways. A major cause of wrinkles is that the body produces less collagen and elastin fibres as we age. Our skin becomes thinner and loses its elasticity. It doesn’t spring back into shape and over time will sag. Also as we age, there is a reduction in the number of fat cells under the skin. The loss of these fat cells allows the skin to sag, not only downward, but inward, giving a hollow look to certain areas such as around the eyes. One of the main causes of wrinkles is that skin cells also lose their ability to retain moisture and oils so that the skin is drier.
Genetics is also part of intrinsic aging. How your skin reacts to the sun, or how your body provides nutrients such as vitamins to the skin cells are, in part, controlled by your heredity.
Extrinsic Aging
Extrinsic aging is due to environmental factors, some of which are causes of wrinkles. The sun is without doubt the strongest environmental factor on the skin. If unprotected, your skin can suffer severe damage. Even mild exposure can dry out the skin causing it to wrinkle. The other major environmental factor is gravity. As the skin loses its elasticity, gravity begins tugging on the skin forcing it to sag.
Other environmental factors that affect the skin and are causes of wrinkles can be controlled:
- sun exposure
- pollution
- emotional and physical stress
- oxidative stress and inflammation
- smoking
Wrinkles Be Gone
Say goodbye to wrinkles forever. No matter what the cause, we can recommend a variety of anti wrinkle treatments that are quick, safe and highly effective.