Wrinkles are an inevitable part of growing older, but they can be significantly reduced through careful skin care and diet. Some treatments may even be possible at home; if none of them yield results, a dermatologist or plastic surgeon might offer additional solutions.
Creams containing alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid can make fine lines less visible, while vitamin C, found in fruits and vegetables, is also an effective wrinkle reducer.
Retinoids
Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that work by neutralizing free radicals that damage collagen. Retinoids also increase cell turnover to make way for new skin cells and give way to smoother, healthier-looking skin. Furthermore, retinoids increase production of hyaluronic acid which in turn decreases transepidermal water loss (TEWL) while providing more even pigment distribution across the epidermis and can even decrease discoloration of skin by modulating melanocyte function and providing regular distribution across epidermis layers.
Retinoids are available at your local drugstore, from over-the-counter products like retinol and retinal palmitate to prescription formulations like tazarotene. Unfortunately, OTC retinoids can sometimes be more irritating and take longer to show results than prescription retinoids; additionally they may exacerbate conditions like rosacea and eczema.
Chemical peels
Chemical peels involve applying an acid solution that causes controlled first or second degree burns on the skin, prompting old tissue to peel away while simultaneously encouraging new tissue formation. A medical professional will assess your individual situation to select an ideal type of chemical peel.
Before beginning treatment, your skin will be cleansed and prepared. Sun exposure, makeup products containing retinoids and any other skincare products containing them should be limited for one or two weeks prior to receiving a peel treatment.
Studies conducted under controlled conditions have demonstrated that chemical peels can significantly improve skin tone and texture, although they will not tighten sagging skin or eliminate deep wrinkles. Multiple lighter peels are generally preferred to one deep peel as this reduces risk of hyperpigmentation after treatment; additionally, people with dark complexions may face greater risks from hyperpigmentation after the procedure.
Moisturizer
Moisturizers may help skin look healthier, but they won’t do much to address fine lines and wrinkles. Some products claim anti-ageing benefits without providing evidence for these claims.
Moisturizing is essential, as our skin sheds hundreds of millions of cells every day, while those who take steps to moisturize properly experience much slower wrinkle accumulation rates.
Oil-based moisturizers that provide optimal hydration consist of an effective combination of occlusives, emollients and humectants – such as Vaseline) that create a barrier on the skin to stop water loss; while emollients fill intercorneocyte cluster gaps for softness and flexibility enhancement; while humectants draw moisture out of the air for improved skin hydration and elasticity. Always test products on sensitive skin first as any products that sting or burn could worsen fine lines considerably
Eye creams
Eye area skin is more delicate than other parts of your face and requires special treatment to keep it looking its best. A good eye cream can reduce fine lines as well as address common problems such as dark circles, puffiness and uneven tone and texture. Be on the lookout for formulas containing ingredients tailored to address specific aging concerns such as Retinol (a derivative of Vitamin A) which boost cell turnover to smooth fine lines while Peptides and Hyaluronic Acid plump up and firm the skin for ultimate results.
Tata Harper offers an eye cream that contains an effective combination of extracts and peptides to soften and firm the skin, with an innovative cooling metal applicator tip to depuff puffy eyes. Plus, this option uses lower strength retinol – ideal if irritation is an issue!
Lip liner
Lip liners are essential makeup bag staples. With its ability to define lips, create soft ombre effects, prevent feathering of lipstick applications and boost glossy lipstick hues, lip liner is indispensable in every makeup bag.
Lip lines are caused by facial muscle movement and can become worse with smoking and sun exposure. Retinoids and hyaluronic acid creams have proven their ability to help minimize lip lines’ appearance.
Pencil lip liners and liquid lip liners offer two ways of outlining lips, with pencil being best suited to define lip contour and liquid being more precise in application. There are even self-sharpening liners for on-the-go touch ups! Not to mention they come in various shades to perfectly complement your lip color!
