I’ve made it a mission to find out all the causes of wrinkles because I don’t want them. Ever. I’m sure you feel the same way. While it’s not possible to completely avoid getting wrinkles because they come with age, you can take dramatic steps toward keeping them small and minimal. And I’m sure that’s something we all want, right? You probably know that the sun is a leading cause of wrinkles, but really, there are lots of other things you might be surprised to find out are also causes of wrinkles. So read through this list and arm yourself for a lifetime of very few wrinkles.
One of the leading causes of wrinkles that many women don’t hear about is a poor diet. Your skin, like the rest of your body, relies on a well-balanced mixture of vitamins and minerals from a variety of foods from each food group. Without that, your skin can’t retain its elasticity and healthy glow, which can result in prominent wrinkles. Limit junk food and fill your plate with lots of fruits, veggies, lean protein, low-fat dairy and whole grains and you’ll be good to go.
What? Yep, research shows that women who get divorced add two years to their faces. The catch – the higher rate of wrinkling applies to women who start taking antidepressants to cope with the divorce. If you are in the midst of a breakup, consider options other than medication to get through. The antidepressants contribute to loss of skin tone and the stress of the divorce causes you to make repetitive angry or sad faces, which creates wrinkles.
I’m a side sleeper and no matter how hard I try, I can’t stay on my back while I sleep. Are you the same? Well, it turns out that putting all that pressure on your face while you sleep can lead to wrinkles. If you’re like me and can’t change your sleep habits, consider using satin pillowcases, which are more slippery and lessen the wrinkling effects.
I know, I know. You’ve heard it a million times before. It’s important to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity each and every day. Whether that’s going for a run, playing football with the kids or gardening, it can take years off your face and body. Exercise improves circulation and helps keep your skin firm, healthy and toned. Makes strapping on your gym shoes a bit more appealing, doesn’t it?
That being said, an intense running routine can actually lead to wrinkles. Experts theorize that an over the top running routine heightens oxidative damage that can lead to wrinkles and other signs of aging. For runners who get in their workouts outside, the added sun exposure can make the wrinkles worse. Try a less intense workout that still burns calories and never, ever forget your sunscreen when you exercise outdoors.
You’ve no doubt heard that a diet high in sugar can lead to weight gain and diabetes. Sadly, it can also lead to loss of skin health and wrinkles. For that reason alone, I have really cut back on my one soda a day habit. I try to save it for a weekend treat. Sugar, from any food, can lead to skin damage that shows itself as wrinkles. So put down that brownie and have an apple instead.
I choose a straw to keep tea from staining my teeth, but it turns out that drinking that way can lead to wrinkles. Sipping from your straw all the time is a repetitive motion that leads to lines around your mouth. In fact, any repetitive motion can cause the same effects, including squinting and smoking.
Did you learn something surprising from this list? I hope this information helps you make anti-aging choices you’ll love. Do you have any other tips to add?