Wrinkles are a natural part of aging, and something most of us would like to avoid. There are things we can do at least to minimize them.
Prevention
Wrinkles form as the skin loses proteins known as elastin and collagen and becomes looser and drier. Smoking appears to accelerate breakdown of collagen. Ultraviolet from the sun and tanning lamps also takes its toll, and lines form where we express emotions (laugh lines, etc.).
Using a sunscreen with an SPF factor of at least 15, a broad-brimmed hat, and sunglasses throughout the year will help to prevent not only wrinkles but also skin cancer. There are some indications in the literature that vitamins can also be helpful, therefore eating a balanced and healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can slow down wrinkles (taking vitamins are not routinely recommended). Using a moisturizer will help to plump out skin cells and can slow wrinkle formation as well.
Treatment
Retinoids (retinol), molecules derived from vitamin A, are the active ingredient in effective anti-wrinkle creams. Prescription-strength preparations of retinol, like Retin-A (tretinoin) and Avage or Tazorac (tazarotene) can reduce fine wrinkles, even out skin pigmentation, and smooth the outer layers of skin. These creams may cause redness at first, and can make the skin sensitive to sunburn, so it is advised to be used along with a sunscreen with an SPF factor of 30.
Over-the-counter (OTC) wrinkle creams are not as effective because they do not contain enough retinoid to make as noticeable a difference. Some OTC creams also contain peptides and antioxidants with equally limited effects.
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Did you know that our doctors can prescribe you retinoids online? Just create an account here and to get a 3-month supply of prescription-strength retinol cream online (e.g. tretinoin).