Everyone gets wrinkles at some point or another in their life. This is because the collagen and elastin production decreases as we age. The result is less elastic and loose skin.

Heredity plays an important role in the formation of wrinkles, but environmental factors and your own bad habits may be adding to genetic predisposition. The good thing is that this means that you can actually do something to prevent face wrinkles. Initially you may have a tough time making a few lifestyle adjustments, but in the end, it is all worth it for younger looking skin.

The 3 External Factors that Accelerate Aging

Smoking and sunbathing are the worst culprits when it comes to accelerating the aging process. Both habits are known to produce free radicals which eventually destroy healthy tissue.

Smoking is probably the most damaging habit. Not only does it lead to skin wrinkles that can appear anywhere on your body, but it also helps accentuate eye wrinkles due to the toxins present in cigarette smoke. What's even worse is that the facial expressions that smokers make are also known to contribute to the formation of crow's feet.

Sunbathing is also responsible for skin wrinkles as well as for age spots and dry, leathery skin. To minimize the possible effects of the sun, use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. However, if you need to stay out in the sun for prolonged periods of time then you should also wear protective gear like wide brimmed hats and long sleeved tops.

Another habit that accelerates the aging process is the consumption of alcohol. Alcohol dehydrates the body and can actually dry out the tissues in your body and skin. So it is wise that you moderate your alcohol intake and increase your consumption of pure water.

The Right Wrinkle Cream for You

The right (anti aging or) wrinkles cream will help keep your skin protected against natural aging and accelerating factors. If you have dry skin, the you might want to begin using an anti aging cream in your late 20s.

Look for products that contain one or more of the following ingredients: coenzyme Q-10, hyaluronic acid, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and/or copper peptides.

Coenzyme Q-10 has firming properties that help make the skin smooth, while it also contains other known properties that help promote skin growth. Hyaluronic acid is another ingredient that has been clinically proven to diminish fine lines and wrinkles due to its water holding capacity. As a matter of fact, it has the ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.

Alpha-hydroxy acids, on the other hand, help promote exfoliation, increase skin thickness, stimulate skin repair, and increase collagen production. Glycolic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, malic acid and citric acid are all AHAs. Copper peptides have been proven to help increase the production of collagen and boost the healing process.