Wrinkles are an unfortunate fact of life. As we get older our skin reduces its produce of collagen and elastin which makes our skin look unhealthy and withered.

Since genetics also plays an important role in the aging process, it may be difficult to prevent face wrinkles, however, there are environmental factors and bad habits that can be controlled to help slow down the process.

Common Culprits 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 the worst habit you can acquire because its effects aren't exclusive to your facial area, in fact, they can lead to skin wrinkles all over your body. This is due to recurrent facial expressions, smoking can also contribute to the formation of eye wrinkles (also known as crow's feet).

Sunbathing, although a very pleasant summertime habit, is also responsible for the formation of skin wrinkles as well as for age spots and dry, leathery skin. In order to minimize the harmful effects of the sun, use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. If you need to stay in the sun for prolonged periods of time, wear protective gear like wide brimmed hats and long sleeved tops.

Another habit that accelerate the aging process is the consumption of alcohol. Alcohol dehydrates the body and can actually dry out the tissues in your body and skin. It is important to moderate your alcohol intake and increase your consumption of pure water.

Facial Wrinkle Creams

A good wrinkle cream will help you skin resist the signs of aging. Some people will notice that they are developing wrinkles as early as their twenties. Because it has a low level of natural oils, dry skin has a higher tendency to wrinkle than other skin types.

Oily skin is much more resistant that dry skin. You may not notice fine lines until your mid thirties. Whichever is the case, 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 is known to help promote skin growth and smooth the skin due to its firming properties. Hyaluronic acid 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.

AHAs, more readily known as Alpha-hydroxy acids, help promote exfoliation, stimulate skin repair, increase skin thickness and collagen production. AHAs such as glycolic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, malic acid and citric acid are some of the most commonly found in skin care products. Copper peptides are another key ingredient that can help boost the healing process and increase the production of collagen.