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Wrinkles just seem to be a fact of life. Their appearance can be triggered by several factors. First, as we age our cell membranes, which function to allow waste products out of the cell and nutrients into the cell, become less fluid and flexible. Over time this can lead to a buildup of potentially harmful substances within the cells, most notably damaging free radicals. Free radicals are one of the body's worst enemies. They are implicated in the aging process (wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin) and in more serious conditions such as cancer. Free radicals are a contributing cause to those pesky wrinkles through a process that ultimately damages the collagen and elastin fiber that normally keeps the skin smooth and taut.
Antioxidants, on the other hand, are molecules that can neutralize free radicals and should be present in high levels in the body for optimal health and beautiful, radiant, youthful appearing skin. These powerful antioxidants work constantly to eradicate the free radicals before they have a chance to carry out their damaging affects.
UV rays from the sun and indoor tanning beds are another serious causative factor of wrinkly skin. The more sun exposure we obtain throughout our life the more damage we incur to the DNA of the cells and eventually, the more wrinkles you will see on the surface of the skin. The rays from the sun or other UV producing mechanisms are notorious for the damage that they can cause to the protein in the skin cells by the high production of free radicals that they initiate. Granted, we do need sun exposure as the sun's rays are the catalyst for producing adequate quantities of Vitamin D in our bodies. However, overexposure and burning should be avoided at all costs.
Finally, a lifestyle that includes smoking or heavy alcohol consumption should also be avoided. These two activities greatly increase the free radical levels in the body and trigger the formation of wrinkles and other aging signs on the surface of the skin and within the body.
To prevent, and possibly even reduce, the number of wrinkles you have there are several steps that you should start immediately. First, add more antioxidant rich foods and dietary supplements into your diet. These may include vitamin A, B, C, E, CoQ10, and minerals copper, magnesium, calcium, manganese, selenium, and zinc. Supplements to consider including in your diet are green tea extract, grape seed extract, and essential fatty acids.
Next, protect your skin from the damaging effects of UV Rays by applying an effective sunscreen when you know you will be outdoors for a more than a short period of time. If the sun is intense, stay out of the direct rays during the hours of 11 am and 3 pm, the times when the rays can be most harmful. Stop smoking and decrease your consumption of alcohol if these activities are part of your normal lifestyle.
Using products specifically designed to protect the cells from free radical damage should also be added to your wrinkle prevention regimen. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is an excellent place to start. This product contains high levels of skin protecting antioxidants designed to scavenge and neutralize free radicals before they can cause irreversible skin damage. This topical application is made with a combination of vitamins C and E along with other well-known antioxidants such as ferulic acid.
Ferulic acid is often added to anti-aging supplements due to its outstanding antioxidant prowess. It helps to prevent damage to the skin cells caused by UV light and, in fact, seems to increase in activity and potency when exposed to UV rays.
The ingredients in SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic not only offers protection from harmful rays but was designed to stimulate collagen production ultimately diminishing the signs of aging as well.
For cells that have already sustained damage there is SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex. The rich combination of proteins, amino acids and antioxidants work synergistically to repair and protect against future UV ray damage and, in the process, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of aging skin.
With regular use, SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex will aid in the repair of blood vessels, reduce inflammation and encourage new cell growth resulting in skin that glows and feels young again.
Last, but certainly not least, Babor Sea Creation Cream is the perfect product for the ultimate in facial skin pampering. Its natural ocean ingredient serum is complemented by the skin softening additions of sesame seed oil, avocado oil, and sweet almond oil. The nourishing cream should be applied to a clean face in the morning and the evening for best results. Babor Sea Creation Cream targets fine lines and wrinkles, while simultaneously hydrating and smoothing skin for that luxurious feeling that comes with beautiful, healthy skin.
The next time someone tells you that wrinkles are just a fact of life and aren't within your control, just look them in the eye, smile, and say, "Mine are."
Article posted 8/01/2006.
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