Aging is a process that cannot be avoided, but we all have the ability to make time look like it’s standing still for us. If you’re noticing more and more fine lines and wrinkles on your face, you are not powerless if you don’t want your wrinkles to get worse. There are plenty of things that you can do to slow down the process, as well as some things that you can avoid.

1. Tension in Your Face

Holding tension in the face reinforces fine lines and wrinkles. Of course, there are proven Botox treatments that can reduce the visibility of wrinkles, but there are small things you can do to keep your wrinkles from getting worse. Repetitive movements like squinting and frowning are just some ways we hold tension in our faces. Some of these actions may be the symptom of a larger issue. Scowling and frowning can be signs of depression, stress or anxiety. A lot of squinting may signal the need for a trip to the optometrist or needing sunglasses. Being more aware of how you’re feeling and where you’re holding tension can help with more than just wrinkles. 

This dentist in Charlotte also adds that not replacing missing teeth can also compromise your facial structure as your jaw bones won’t be able to support it as effectively as when you have a complete set of teeth. Thus, it’s important to take care of your dental health while you’re young

2. Side Sleeping

Sleeping on your side or stomach are not the best options for slowing down wrinkles. Side and stomach sleeping put unnecessary stress on the face that can distort the skin over time. Sleeping on your back is the better choice when you’re worried about wrinkles. Silk and satin pillowcases are also additions to your sleep routine that can help reduce the friction that occurs between your face and the pillow. 

3. Smoking

Smoking does not do anything positive for your skin. The repeated puckering of the mouth reinforces the wrinkles around the mouth. Smoking also dries out your skin, reduces its elasticity and damages collagen. Nicotine constricts your blood vessels, which reduces the flow of blood around your body, including your face. Smoking damages more than just your lungs, your skin also takes a big hit. If you’re having a hard time quitting, consult with your healthcare provider for smoking cessation options.

4. Unhealthy Foods

Slowing down the progression of wrinkles has more to do with what you put in your body than what you do to your skin topically. A balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, nuts and herbs will make a big difference in your wrinkle prognosis. An unhealthy diet that is full of hydrogenated fats, salt, sugar and refined carbohydrates does nothing to hydrate and invigorate your skin. Unhealthy foods are generally devoid of the kind of nutrition that fuels a body optimally. Vitamin and mineral rich foods are going to nourish your skin from the inside out, and a proper outer skin care regimen will nourish your skin from the outside in. 

Everyone wants to age like fine wine, but wrinkles can sometimes tell the truth that we wish to hide. By taking care to avoid certain things like smoking, we can prevent the worsening of fine lines and wrinkles.