Many creams claim to reduce fine lines, yet only some actually work. Over-the-counter (OTC) skin creams containing vitamin A retinoids and antioxidants have proven highly effective at smoothing wrinkles while making your complexion even.
Static wrinkles (lines that appear at rest) can be diminished through limited sun exposure and using sunscreen, along with wearing sunglasses and hats which protect from squinting which contributes to fine lines around the eyes.
1. Retinol
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that can help improve skin tone, texture and pigmentation while simultaneously diminishing fine lines, dark spots and dead skin cells clogging pores. While prescription acne drugs such as isotretinoin (Accutane) require close medical supervision for use, over-the-counter retinols can be taken daily in order to treat mild-moderate acne or wrinkles without resorting to surgery.
This hydrating formula (with over 82,500 verified Amazon ratings) combines the skin-smoothing effects of retinol with the acne fighting power of bakuchiol to treat both blemishes and wrinkles, with added hyaluronic acid to combat dryness caused by using retinol.
As with any skincare product, it’s crucial to first conduct a patch test on a retinol product before regularly applying it to your skin. “Those with sensitive skin should start out slowly by using it every other night before gradually increasing it to every night over several weeks,” according to Stevenson. Retinol may worsen eczema and rosacea symptoms; therefore those diagnosed with these conditions should avoid it entirely.
2. Moisturize
Though wrinkles may be genetic, many factors such as dehydration can also contribute to them appearing prematurely – leading to dull and saggy skin that ages faster than expected. Moisturizing regularly can keep skin cells hydrated, plumped up and healthy-looking while also helping prevent extreme dryness that could potentially lead to acne or other forms of skin disorder. An effective moisturizer should contain both occlusive ingredients such as shea butter or mineral oil and emollients such as esters or plant oils to create a barrier that keeps water locked into the skin and in. Your skincare regime should also contain humectants and anti-oxidant vitamins such as Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) to stimulate collagen production and diminish fine lines. Massage action as part of the application process may also help improve blood circulation and spur new cell growth.
3. Exfoliate
Dead skin cells naturally shed each day, but when too many build up they can leave you looking dull or flaky. Exfoliation removes these cells while also helping reduce fine line appearance.
Exfoliation is an integral component of skincare regimen, but its approach will depend on your skin type and concerns. Zeichner notes there are multiple forms of exfoliation – physical scrubs or brushes as well as chemical exfoliators like cleanser containing acids to break apart connections between dead skin cells so they’re easier to shed – that may be used.
As we age, our natural cell turnover process becomes slower; for this reason many choose exfoliation to accelerate this process. Be careful to use gentle circular motions when brushing or using manual exfoliators – rough scrubbing may cause irritation and redness in your skin, so opt for gentle methods instead if using these. Be flexible if your needs evolve over time!
4. Sunscreen
Sunscreen should be part of any plan to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, since it protects the skin from harmful UV rays that hinder collagen production and contribute to maintaining youthful, vibrant skin. Therefore, sunscreen must be applied regularly – particularly before going outside into direct sunlight – for maximum efficacy.
Broad spectrum sunscreen protects skin against both UVB and UVA rays that cause sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and prevent uneven toned. It can help keep skin looking even-toned as well.
Some sunscreens have also been designed to block blue and violet visible light and certain wavelengths of infrared radiation linked to photoageing, according to research. Studies have demonstrated that these rays contribute to oxidative stress, excessive skin hydration, free radical generation, suppression of healing processes and reduced immunity – these ingredients include Ensulizole, Homosalate, Octinoxate and Oxybenzone (ENSOZOLE HOMOSALATATE OCTINONATE AND OXYBZONE).
