Doctor Recommended Skincare Tips for Wrinkle Prevention and Treatment

How to Have Healthy Skin Over 50

Our skin is the largest organ in our body, and it’s deserving of some attention. Getting older comes with some natural skin changes, and wrinkles can be part of that process. However, it is possible to prevent wrinkles and promote more youthful, healthy skin. If you’re wondering how to get rid of wrinkles, we’ve collected the best science-backed strategies for healthy skin from our own Mighty Health physician, Dr. Eric Tam!

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Wrinkles

If you’ve noticed facial wrinkles, you might search for the latest and greatest lotion or skin care product to reverse those signs of aging. Not all of those products live up to the hype, and many can be quite expensive. In fact, some of the best ways to prevent fine wrinkles are through simple lifestyle changes.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking causes inflammation throughout your body, which accelerates the aging process. That inflammation causes oxidative damage, which actually harms your body on a cellular level. People who smoke regularly often develop wrinkles, especially around their lips and nasal folds.

Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is good for every organ in your body, but especially your skin. Focus on eating plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, limiting sugar intake, and eating foods with healthy fats. These diet changes can make a major impact on skin health.

Drink Plenty of Water

Dehydrated skin looks dull, flaky, and makes wrinkles look worse. Drink lots of water throughout the day to keep your skin full and fresh.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is critical for skin health for several reasons. First, an important compound called collagen is produced while you sleep. Collagen is what makes skin look smooth and plump. Second, sleep deprivation increases the stress hormone cortisol. This triggers inflammation throughout your body and can worsen wrinkles. Third, during sleep, your skin cells repair themselves and maintain hydration. Finally, sleep deprivation is often associated with other unhealthy behaviors. When you don’t get enough sleep, you may also be less likely to moisturize or wash your face before bed. 

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol dehydrates you, stripping your skin's barrier and making wrinkles appear deeper. Limiting yourself to only occasional alcoholic beverages is great for healthy skin. 

Best Skincare to Prevent and Treat Wrinkles

Use Sunscreen Regularly

Sun exposure is a major source of wrinkles. That is why it is so important to wear sunscreen whenever you go outside. That means winter or summer, rain or shine. UV rays can penetrate cloud cover, so using sunscreen daily can make a big difference for aging skin.

The best sunscreen is one that you find comfortable and will wear every day. There are two major types of sunscreen: chemical or physical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays. Although they tend to go onto skin smoothly, they cause irritation for some people with sensitive skin. Physical sunscreens usually contain the ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These physically block the UV rays. While physical sunscreens tend to work better for people with sensitive skin, they can leave a white cast that is hard to rub in and may not work for people with more darkly pigmented skin.

When choosing a sunscreen, look for one with at least SPF 30 that includes both UVA and UVB protection. Finding a sunscreen that is water resistant can be a good choice, especially if you’re planning to exercise or sweat. All sunscreens should be reapplied every 2 to 3 hours to ensure continuous protection.

Of course, sun barriers are even more successful than sunscreen at protecting skin and preventing skin cancer. Wearing a hat, dressing in UV-blocking clothing on sunny days, and finding a shady spot outdoors can make a big difference.

Moisturize Your Face

Dry skin is more prone to wrinkles, so it is important to keep your skin hydrated. It may take some trial and error to find the best moisturizer for your skin. Consider whether your skin tends to be oily, dry, or well balanced, and choose a moisturizer accordingly. Ingredients such as vitamin E, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid are good for boosting moisture and antioxidant activity. Check the ingredient list, and avoid any moisturizers with alcohol, sulfates, or fragrances. These can further dry out skin and make facial wrinkles worse. If you can, find a moisturizer that contains SPF, too. That protects your skin from sun exposure and repairs the skin’s barrier. Vitamin C serums can be another way to brighten skin and combat sun damage.

Try Retinol or Retinoic Acid

Retinoids are a family of compounds in the vitamin A family. Retinol is the main form of vitamin A in our bodies. Our cells convert retinol to retinoic acid before using. Retinoic acid does numerous activities to promote skin health. It promotes cellular turnover, keeping skin looking brighter. It also promotes collagen production to keep skin smooth and elastic. Retinoic acid is also known as tretinoin, which is a prescription medication that is regulated by the FDA. Unlike over-the-counter wrinkle treatments that may make vague claims like “contains retinol” or “promotes skin health,” retinoic acid is a well regulated product. Talk to your primary care doctor or dermatologist to ask if a prescription for retinoic acid might be right for you.

Feel Your Best with Mighty Health

At Mighty Health, we’re invested in helping to support your body, mind, and spirit as you age. Download our app today to learn more about healthy lifestyle changes for better skin and overall health. We’ll match you with a personal health coach who can make specific recommendations to keep you feeling and looking your best.