Ever noticed how for most people, it’s a lot easier to accept gray hair than wrinkled skin? The obsession for glowing, smooth and clear skin is still a big part of our culture and the beauty standards that govern it. People are ready to give a lot of money and undergo risky treatments just to get that “snow white” look. And although you might be ready to try everything too, guess what? You don’t have to. There are many cheap, safe, and 100% natural home remedies for wrinkles that you can incorporate in your skincare routine.
Understanding Wrinkles
What exactly are wrinkles? Wrinkles are described as straight lines, folds, creases, or ridges on the skin of the face. Our body, including the skin, is a dynamic, ongoing and fragile organism. Repeated extensions and compressions of the skin can damage the fibers in the dermis. But, you shouldn’t worry about that because the skin regenerates itself every 27 days! Yes, that’s right - you can say you have new skin every month, and it's all a natural part of life. The problem occurs when broken elastic and collagen fibers are not regenerated and restored but replaced by altered fibers. And, this is how wrinkles appear - from incorrect repairs of injured elastic and collagen fibers.
At this point, you realize why wrinkles appear as people get older. Over time the skin will accumulate a lot of injuries to the fibers of the dermis, resulting in wrinkles and other imperfections.
What Causes Wrinkles?
I’m sure that as soon as you read “injuries to the dermis” you mind went on to the most obvious question: how can you prevent these injuries?. To be completely honest, although there are many things you can do to protect the skin, the major culprits for skin aging are not under our control.
Aging
Everyone keeps repeating that wrinkles are a natural part of aging because they happen as the skin gets drier, thinner, less elastic, and less able to repair itself from everyday damage. Taking good care of the skin, nourishing it and protecting it from extreme environmental conditions can help slow down this process, but at the end of the day, aging will leave its consequences. It’s worth to mention that genetics do play a role, and people with more flexible skin are less likely to develop wrinkles earlier in life.
Facial Expressions
Unfortunately every time we use the muscles of our body the skin stretches and compresses. This means that smiling, laughing, crying, or frowning can lead to the formation of premature fine lines and wrinkles. Facial expressions are not something we can lose or stop, so it’s better to think about the ways we can make the skin more resilient. Nourish your skin regularly - below you can find some natural ingredients that you can make home remedies for wrinkles.
Exposure To The Sun
Next to aging, the sun and even artificial UV light can contribute to developing wrinkles earlier in life. The UV light has the power to break down the elastin and collagen fibers in the skin. Avoid sunbathing, tanning booths, and outdoor sports when the sun is strongest. A lot of research has found a connection between people who work in sunlight and early wrinkles. For example, fishermen, gardeners, beach lifeguards, and golfers may be more prone to skin aging.
Alcohol And Smoking
I’m sure you have heard of this and yes it’s true. Alcohol and smoking are another two factors leading to premature aging of the skin and wrinkles. Alcohol dehydrates and drys out the skin, which makes it a lot more prone to wrinkles. Additionally, it depletes the organism of vitamin A - an important vitamin for the skin, keeping it firm and youthful. Smoking has the same effect on vitamin A. The nicotine found in cigarettes narrows down the blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin, preventing blood flow to reach the skin. Experts say that people can notice damage to the skin after only 10 years of smoking. Our advice is to replace alcohol and cigarettes with a delicious smoothie packed with many nutrients from the superfoods - a famous home remedy for wrinkles and overall skin health.
How Can You Get Rid Of Wrinkles?
Medical Treatments
Treatments against wrinkles include:
- Topical retinoids derived from vitamin A
- Topical collagen creams or serums
- Over-the-counter wrinkle creams
- Chemical peels
- Dermabrasion - microdermabrasion
There are two types of wrinkles: fine lines and deep furrows. The treatments may help reduce or make the surface lines less visible, but will probably not be as effective against deep furrows. In these cases, available options are plastic surgery or filler injections.
Massage
Massages are a wonderful way to help your skin absorb everything better - both anti-aging creams or topical, homemade remedies for wrinkles. Additionally, a massage can increase your blood flow and bring more oxygen and nutrients to the skin. After all, do we really need to give you reasons for you to grab your favorite skincare cream and give yourself a facial massage - or even indulge in a visit to the spa? I didn’t think so.
You can even try out home remedies for wrinkles to boost the effects of your overall anti-aging skincare routine.
The Best Home Remedies To Reduce Wrinkles Naturally And Permanently
Egg Whites Mask
Egg whites are filled with B Vitamins and also rich in vitamin E. People with oily skin will benefit from the potent ingredients in egg whites the most, because they help tighten, and tone the skin. Egg whites are packed with protein that helps tissue repair and growth, giving less possibility for wrinkle formation. And it’s fairly simple - just, whip up several egg whites in a small bowl. Massage onto your skin, allowing the mixture to sit and soak up for at least 15 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water and you’re good to go!
Cucumber And Yogurt Mask
The flesh of the cucumber is mostly water which is great for hydration, but cucumbers also contain ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help calm and lighten the skin, leaving it rejuvenated.
Yogurt, on the other hand, is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It has the power to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and prevent them from forming which is why it’s a regular ingredient in many anti-aging face masks.
The lactic acid in yogurt acts as a gentle exfoliator, it dissolves dead skin cells and tightens the pores. Together these ingredients form a powerful home remedy for wrinkles that you can make in no time, and at no cost at all! Just put half a cucumber and half a cup of Greek yogurt in a food processor, along with a few mint leaves and blend until you get a smooth paste-like consistency. After this apply the mask on a clean face and let it do its magic for about 15 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water. You can repeat this procedure three to four times a week.
Oils Good For Reducing Wrinkles
Olive oil
Research has found that olive oil can actually increase the skin’s collagen levels. In 2001, a study claimed that a high intake of olive oil can protect the skin from cutaneous actinic damage (wrinkling). On top of this, olive oil is rich in antioxidants, like the vitamins A and E - both known for their ability to fight skin-damaging free radicals. To use it as a natural, topical remedy simply massage a few drops of it on your skin before going to bed. Massage for a couple of minutes, and then let it sit on the skin for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, before washing your face with warm water.
Argan Oil
Argan oil has moisturizing, anti-aging and antioxidant properties. It’s rich in fatty acids, Vitamin E, oleic acid, and linoleic acid, and all of them help maintain skin elasticity, making it more youthful and resilient to damage and wrinkle development. The best way to use argan oil is as a massage oil - apply a few drops directly on the skin and massage for a couple of minutes. Don’t forget to clean your face and fingers before massaging. Leave it for another 15 minutes to act on the face and then rinse off with warm water.
Jojoba Oil
Some experts refer to jojoba oil as the perfect moisturizer, because it has the power to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and it’s very similar to the natural oils are skin produces. Although there’s no research to confirm this link directly, anecdotal evidence suggests that the antioxidant properties of jojoba oil can slow the signs of aging when used on the skin. Just like with any other oil, apply a few drops of jojoba oil directly on the skin and massage gently in a circular motion, for at least a couple of minutes. Rinse off with warm water afterward.
Lavender Oil
Lavender Oil has powerful antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radicals. It’s also recommended as a natural remedy for treating sunburns. To treat wrinkles or inflammation on a burn use a few drops of the lavender essential oil along with coconut oil. The blend can be used as a moisturizer once or twice a day (in case of a bad burn you can apply it three to four times a day).
Fruits And Veggies
If you search for anti-aging foods you are going to find a variety of fruits and veggies promoted as superfoods with amazing powers. On the top of every list, you can find blueberries, papaya, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach, carrots, and avocado. Wondering what do they have in common and why are they called anti-aging food? Well, it’s simple - they are all loaded with antioxidants that help the skin regenerate and repair itself. Not convinced? Ask a doctor. Experts are more and more convinced that eating fruits and veggies is the best and healthiest way to combat wrinkles. Eat a variety of fruits during the day and always have a big portion of green salad with your meals. Additionally to this, drink a lot of water and exercise regularly. You will notice results in no time - your skin will glow with a more youthful look, making the fine lines less visible.
Lemon Juice
You can slice up one lemon, squeeze it and apply the juice directly onto the wrinkles. But be careful, lemon juice is really strong, and in some cases it can cause irritation, due to the fact it has a very acidic PH value This is why it's a good idea to dilute it with water or even better - olive oil, and then apply it on the face. The antioxidants and the acidity of the lemon juice can lighten the skin and help fade the look of wrinkles. Always moisturize in the end.
The Famous Lemon Juice And Honey Dab
The lemon juice honey dab is a simple yet powerful home remedy for wrinkles that you can use every day. These two ingredients mixed together will lighten and protect the skin from further damage. The can help maintain moisture in the skin cells, while the lemon is known to stimulate collagen production. Mix equal amounts of the ingredients in a small bowl. Apply a thin layer of the mixture on your face for 10 minutes then rinse off with warm water.
Aloe Vera
I’m sure you have read about aloe vera as a natural remedy for wound healing and acne-prone skin. But, today aloe vera made this list for yet another of its potent qualities. Packed with many essential and powerful nutrients, aloe vera can also help with the reparation and regeneration of skin cells damaged by intense and prolonged exposure to sun rays. By protecting the skin from sun-damage it also helps it stay wrinkle-free for a longer time. A 2009 study concluded that aloe gel significantly improves the appearance of wrinkles and skin elasticity in general, and it stimulates collagen production. You can apply the gel, squeezed directly from the plant, on your face and massage it gently for 10 to 15 minutes. After that rinse off with lukewarm water. Repeat this a couple of times in the week.
How To Prevent Wrinkles
Protect The Skin From The Sun
Never leave the house without sunscreen, and limit your time exposed to direct sunlight - especially when the sun is really strong. Everybody loves tanned skin, but ask yourself - is it worth it? Avoid sunbathing or tanning booths.
Don’t Use Soaps
Washing your face is important, but instead of using soap, simply go for warm water. You don’t need to use abrasive products that will only dry out the skin. Sometimes, less is more. After washing with warm water moisturize with your favorite moisturizer. If you need help finding the right moisturizer you can check out our article on the different types of moisturizers and how to choose one for your skin type.
Be Careful Not To Overwash
Washing your face once or twice a day is just enough. You won’t help your skin if you are washing it more frequently. Quite the opposite, you will dry it out, strip it from its natural oils and make it more prone to injuries, which now we know can lead to wrinkles.
Be Careful With Exfoliation And Use Moisturizers
The exfoliating process can be really rough on the skin, and it can leave it red and sore. Some exfoliating products are too strong and can do more damage than good. So, always read your labels and ingredients! It can be a pain, definitely, but it’s really important that you don’t irritate your skin with harsh, drying or irritating ingredients, like alcohol, parabens, fragrances, sulfates, mineral oils and essential oils (to only name a few). In the end, always moisturize to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Not all moisturizers leave the skin greasy, but if you’re having trouble with those you can go for a gel-type consistency, or make sure you pick up something labeled “non-comedogenic”.
Watch Your Vitamin C Levels
Vitamin C is needed for our bodies to be able to synthesize collagen. Without it, the skin will lose its flexibility and be a lot more prone to injuries and wrinkles. Fruits and veggies are your best friends here, and you can apply it topically as well, by making potent homemade remedies for wrinkles, or incorporating a Vitamin C serum into your skincare routine.
Don’t Drink And Smoke
We already mentioned alcohol and cigarettes as the causes of premature aging and wrinkle development. Alcohol drys out the skin, making it dehydrated. Nicotine narrows the blood vessels and prevents blood flow and nutrients to reach the skin. Plus, you already know how bad drinking and smoking are to your overall health. Simply, avoid them!
Cut Back On Sugar
Refined sugar and junk food are becoming more and more associated with various health problems, including skin conditions. Studies today focus on finding out how bad diet, high in sugar and saturated fats can lead to premature aging and bad skin. It’s all connected with a process called ‘glycation’ - that happens when blood sugar levels become extremely high. Glycation can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, causing tissue damage and premature aging.
