Wrinkles: The Demon of Ageing
Wrinkles are an inevitable by-product of the aging process. As we age, our skin cells regenerate more slowly, and the dermis (middle layer) becomes thinner. The dermis layer is comprised of elastin and collagen fibres, which offers support and elasticity. As this network unravels with time, coupled with lower abilities to retain moisture, secrete oil to protect, and heal, “depressions”, or wrinkles, are formed on the skin surface.
Most women (and some men) are obsessed with wrinkle elimination. I heard that some women will avoid exaggerated facial expressions so that they won’t get wrinkly. This is a big and unnatural sacrifice for a halfway result – expressions like squinting, frowning and so on will only exaggerate a fine line or wrinkle, but unlikely cause it in the first place.
Nor is wrinkly skin from genes. If your mother has wrinkles, it does not necessarily mean that you will get it too. Exposure to dry, harsh weather is a common cause for wrinkles. People who live in cold and dry countries typically exhibit more wrinkly skin. Hydration and moisturizing will partly counter this. Is smoking a cause of wrinkles? It certainly slows down the cell’s ability to regenerate and to produce collagen. A lower level of collagen in the skin will lead to wrinkles over time.
Excessive sun damage (and we emphasise the word “excessive”, as some sun is good for you) breaks down collagen fibres faster than we can regenerate them, causing wrinkles to form with constant exposure and no UV protection.
Embrace or Eradicate?
The eradication of wrinkles is a multi-billion dollar industry. There are many interventive treatments like Botox, fillers, laser treatment, peels and so on that are available. These options can be abrasive and carry many side effects. At GLOHS, we advocate a natural solution that combines taking care of your skin from inside and out.
There is a saying that there are no ugly women, only lazy ones. That kind of holds true. However, hacks need not be complicated either. Here are our suggestions:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in the midst of summer months. Foods with biological water (like watermelon) are also a good way to hydrate, If you are exercising outdoors, coconut water offers natural electrolytes
- Avoid excessive sun exposure and apply adequate UV protection. Avoid products with SPF higher than 30 as chemicals will be needed in the product to keep it stable
- Quit smoking
- Avoid excessive alcohol
- Eat foods with high antioxidant content, which aids cell regeneration, and protect skin from pollution and free radicals. Eating right can never go wrong!
- Topical solution – moisturising on a regular basis will keep skin supple. Choose a cream that is suitable for your skin type and weather condition. Serums with high vitamin C and peptides will aid cell regeneration and collagen production