Here's how you can prevent wrinkles without having to get Botox
As you get older, you'll start to notice some crows feet developing at the corners or your eyes, and that the lines around your mouth are starting to get deeper. But don't panic! Because everyone gets wrinkles, just as everyone gets grey hair and a more refined palate for cheese and wine as they age. And even though you might not be able to banish wrinkles entirely, there are a few things you can do to stop them getting deeper. And no, you won't find botox or Photoshop on the list.
Wrinkles generally come about from your skin becoming too dry over time, so most of these are pretty unsurprising. A good skincare routine and a healthy lifestyle are key, so listen up.
1. Be extra vigilant on sunny days
The sun is quoted by many studies as the number one offender for causing wrinkles. Apply and reapply sunscreen, and at the very least, choose skincare and makeup products with SPF. It's probably not a bad idea to invest in a hat either.
2. Wash your face properly
That means twice a day using a micellar water, cleanser, exfoliating scrub (but only once a week) or just cool water if you haven't been wearing makeup – whatever your skin likes best. Unclog your pores but don't overdo it or use anything too harsh as this could dry out your skin.
3. Moisturise – outside and in!
Apply a moisturiser each time after you wash your face. Especially if you go for something touting wrinkle-busting benefits, you'll be doing your skin a big favour. And don't forget to drink plenty of water – it'll help your skin stay hydrated from the inside and prevent deep wrinkles.
4. Invest in an eye cream
You'll want a different moisturising product that specifically targets the eyes – it's a softer, more delicate kind of skin and so would benefit from an additional layer of moisture to prevent it from wrinkling and drooping. Try and get something with collagen, vitamin C, peptides or retinol listed on the label.
5. Speaking of which... retinol is your friend
It's one of the most effective anti-wrinkle agents out there and is very potent, so don't use too much. Sunlight inhibits its effects, so apply it at night before going to bed.
6. Boost your diet
Even the foods you eat can prevent wrinkles. Stick to anti-inflammatory foods (fruits and vegetables, raw nuts, whole grains) rather than the more processed stuff, and try adding more antioxidants (berries, citrus, tomatoes) and vitamin K (kale, spinach, broccoli) to keep skin elastic, healthy and fresh-looking.
I bet you're already doing some of these things, aren't you? If you invest in some proper skincare products, drink plenty of water and think twice about going out during the heat of the day when the UV rays are harshest, chances are that the appearance of your wrinkles will be far less.
The best part? Even though you're targeting your wrinkles with all this, the rest of your visage as well as your overall well-being will benefit greatly too! It's a win-win if you ask me.