What Causes Wrinkles?

If you understand what causes wrinkles in the first place, then it will be easier for you to find the best anti wrinkle creams.  So, here's a short lesson for you.

Mr. Sun

Research suggests that the sun is what causes wrinkles and 80% of all of the sigs of aging.  In response to this research, many cosmetic companies began including sunscreen and adding an SPF rating to their products.

The most recent research indicates that the incidence of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, is higher among regular sunscreen users.  Studies also indicate that the overuse of sun-screening compounds has contributed to a rise in vitamin D deficiencies among the elderly.  That, in turn, contributes to osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become more brittle and easily broken.

In addition, some of the organic sun screens have been shown to damage DNA, when exposed to UV radiation.  Oxybenzone, for example, is now listed as a "photo-carcinogen", but major cosmetic companies still use the ingredient.

Today, the very best anti wrinkle creams do not contain organic or synthetic sun-screening compounds.  They take a different approach.

Mr. Pollution

The other 20% of the signs of aging are caused by toxins and environmental pollutants like smoke.  The best anti wrinkle creams include ingredients that protect the pores and skin cells from these toxins.  But, even though we blame Mr. Sun and Mr. Pollution, they are not, truly, what causes wrinkles.

The Free Radical Group

In response to UV radiation from the sun and exposure to pollution, the skin cells produce more free radicals.  If uncontrolled, radicals cause changes on a molecular level that damages collagen fibers, the cellular membrane and DNA strands.  The best anti wrinkle creams help control free radical activity.

Recent reports from dermatology societies now say that what causes wrinkles and all of the other sigs of aging are the molecular changes caused by uncontrolled free radicals.  They also say that aging skin cells produce more radicals, while a specific type of nutrient is in short supply.

Antioxidants save the Day

The nutrients are called antioxidants.  Antioxidants stop free radical damage and repair damage that has already occurred; again these changes occur on a molecular level.  So, using an antioxidant rich skin-cream may not make an immediate difference in your appearance.

In addition, you have to look at lotions critically.  Technically speaking, artificial preservatives are antioxidants, because they prevent the oxidation or spoilage of other ingredients in the product.  But, they do not fight or repair free radical damage.

The best anti wrinkle creams on the market, today, are free of artificial preservatives.  (It has been shown that naturally occurring vitamin E preserves the other ingredients and acts as an effective skin-antioxidant.)  They contain numerous antioxidants and they can make an immediate improvement in your appearance, because they use a little "trick".

The cream dries to a lightweight film that bends light just slightly, making your skin look smoother than it actually is.  The film also protects your skin from pollution.  Now, you know what causes wrinkles and you know the solution.

For more information on how you can prevent wrinkles, visit Xtendlife Skincare Today:

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