There's a billion-dollar industry built around fighting them but researchers have found that wrinkles are simply deeper in other parts of the face because of the number of oil glands in a certain area.
For a study published in the journal Clinical Anatomy, researchers analyzed images from the eye and forehead regions of 58 male and female cadavers. Tissue samples were also examined to observe oil glands in the areas as well as their density, the result of which was compared to how deep the subjects' wrinkles were for the corresponding area.
According to findings, forehead samples exhibited shallower wrinkles because they had a higher number of oil glands. Conversely, wrinkles were deeper around the eyes because the region didn't have oil glands.
Age also plays a part in the equation as less oil is produced by oil-secreting glands as one gets older. This is why anti-aging products focus a lot on ensuring the skin is adequately moisturized.
Aside from simply focusing on banishing wrinkles, skin care should be geared towards promoting healthy skin. To achieve the skin you want, consider the following:
- Wear sun protection. Sun exposure accounts for 80 percent of skin aging so protection against it is the foundation of an anti-aging skin care plan. To fight photoaging, avoid the sun from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when it is at its strongest. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF30 before going out, reapplying as needed. Cover up as much as possible as well to lessen areas of your body exposed to the sun.
Moisturize everyday. As skin ages, it becomes less capable of moisturizing itself. Help it along by providing the moisture it can't produce on its own.
- Stop smoking. If you don't, then never even think of starting. Tobacco smoke has toxins that cause what is called a smoker's face, one with a dull and dry complexion, premature lines, sagging and leathery skin.
- Keep your face clean. Clean your face twice a day with a mild cleanser and some warm water. It's necessary to exfoliate to get rid of old skin cells but don't overdo it. Facial skin is sensitive, after all.
- Get enough sleep. Beauty rest is called as such for a reason. Log in enough hours of rest to give your body time to renew itself. This will also give your skin care products enough time to do their magic to get you better skin in the morning.
Photo: Bev Sykes | Flickr
