Wrinkles. We’re all bound to get them.  Some think they are a sign of wisdom and maturity – a badge of honor so to speak. But most think they are annoying and unattractive.

The good news is, there are some smooth skin tips you can use to help get rid of face wrinkles. There are key foods to eat that will help; along with the use of anti aging lotions and eye wrinkle creams and  other skin care products.

Lets Look at What Causes Wrinkles

There are many factors that contribute to the development of wrinkles.  Some factors we can do nothing about – like genetics and gravity. Others, we can take steps to mitigate.

• Free radicals are molecules that lead to the degeneration of collagen which is a protein in the skin that helps to keep it supple and young looking.  Free radicals are created when our skin is exposed to the sun, if we are exposed to cigarette smoke (first or second-hand), and other forms of pollution.
• Hormonal changes also produce aging effects on the skin. Decreased estrogen production during menopause reduces the skins elasticity and causes fine lines to deepen.
• Each day the many muscles in your face are used to laugh, smile, frown and squint.  Over time these facial expressions lead to wrinkles.

The Formation of Wrinkles

There are several layers of skin but for the purposes of this discussion, let’s just talk about the epidermis – which is the outer layer of skin, and the dermis – which is the second layer.

Aging causes the epidermis to become increasingly thin and more “sticky.” As a result, the cells divide more slowly causing our natural ability to repair and replace cells to slow down. Meaning, the damage done by the normal every day elements we come into contact with, are not as rapidly repaired as when we were younger.

The dermis, or sub-layer, is where the connective tissue is found. The connective tissues control the elasticity of our skin as well as the proteins. Again, the aging process results in the dermis becoming thinner and less elastic.  Our collagen (or protein) production slows and the dermis is not able to perform as it once did.

Food that Fight Wrinkles

• Antioxidants help fight free radical molecules, so it’s a good idea to find food high in antioxidants.  They also help to counteract the decreased collagen and can improve elasticity to help smooth skin. Look for antioxidants in berries – especially blue berries and in dark green leafy vegetables – kale is perfect!
• Lycopene, found in tomatoes, is an excellent tool against wrinkles and it is a substance that helps to lower the risk of developing cancer.  Foods loaded with Vitamins A and B, like red peppers, also have bioflavonoids, which moisturize and heal the skin.
• Fish – especially wild salmon – rich in Omega-3 fatty acids reduces inflammation and lubricates the skin.
  
• Finally, drinking at least 6 to 8 glasses of water will help to keep your skin smooth and looking youthful.

Eating healthy foods is just one of the smooth skin tips that can help you to combat the effects of aging on your skin.