Top 3 Healthy Habits to Prevent Wrinkles

Wrinkles have a reputation for creeping up on us when we least expect, but it’s never too late to start preventing future wrinkles. Here are the top 3 healthy habits to prevent wrinkles from our local skin experts at Atlantic Shore Dermatology, a Forefront Dermatology practice.

1. Rain or shine, summer or winter, put on the sunscreen and shade your face.

Reminders about the importance of sunscreen may sound like a broken record, but honestly the sun and its UV rays are the number one reason your skin may be aging faster than it should be. No matter whether it’s snowing, raining, or blazing heat, those pesky UV rays can get through the clouds. According to board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Ashley Cavalier, “By taking minimal actions like wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher, wearing a hat with a wide brim and sticking to shaded areas, you can drastically reduce the damage the sun is doing to your skin, and in turn decrease the rate at which your skin will age.”

2. Watch your sugar and carb intake.

If you have a sweet tooth or love pasta night, our skin specialists have bad news for you. Sugar and refined carbohydrates cause transient elevation of blood sugar levels. These “sugar spikes” can damage and tangle your collagen by causing glycation and cross linking of the collagen fibers in your dermis, the deep layer of your skin. This weakening of the collagen support structure leads to less pliable skin, sagging and wrinkles. Try to choose healthier options as much as possible. Curb your cravings by drinking more water and eating foods high in antioxidants such as blueberries, cranberries, grapes, and spinach.

3. Get your beauty sleep.

“The phrase ‘beauty sleep’ was coined for a reason,” noted Dr. Cavalier. “Sleep allows your body a chance to heal and repair. It’s also the time when your skin cells produce most of your collagen. Your sleep positions can also affect the potential for wrinkles. By sleeping on your face, the repeated compression restricts blood flow to your skin, resulting in weaker skin that is more likely to develop ‘sleep creases’ and wrinkles. Lastly, always remember to wash your face before bedtime. Leaving makeup and environmental dirt, which you likely don’t even realize is there, on your skin all night will never do your skin any favors.”

When it comes to the best ways to treat your current wrinkles, Atlantic Shore Dermatology has you covered! Here are some of the options they offer:

Anti-wrinkle Creams

These creams are designed to both prevent wrinkles from occurring and to reduce the appearance of those that have formed. Many anti-aging creams are known as “pro-collagen” creams that contain ingredients to promote your skin’s collagen production, which naturally declines as you age. Topical retinoids are a good first-line treatment for photo-aging. Anti-wrinkle creams containing antioxidants, vitamin C , hyaluronic acid, or plant extracts are also good adjuncts to retinoids. Stop by their St. Simons Island office at 7000 Wellness Way, Suite 7120 or check out their online store at atlanticshoredermatology.com for anti-aging skin care products.

Chemical Peels

“A great, non-invasive option, chemical peels help remove dull surface cells, improve fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce sunspots and discoloration,” Dr. Cavalier described. “They also enhance collagen production and remove the top layer of the skin revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion. There are multiple different strengths of chemical peels that range from surface level peels to deeper peels. A consultation with your dermatology office will help determine which type of chemical peels will best target your needs.”

Preventative Neuromodulators 

Botox®  and  Dysport®,  are fantastic cosmetic treatments for facial wrinkles. “These products are purified substances safely derived from bacteria and are used to relax facial muscles, softening the expressions that cause wrinkling of the skin over time,” explained Dr. Cavalier. “They are commonly placed on the forehead, frown lines and ‘crow’s feet’ next to eyes. These neuromodulators can also be used off-label on the lower face with the ‘lip flip’ which can relax the skin above the top lip to smooth the lines and give the lip a fuller look. These injection procedures are best performed at the office of a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in performing these techniques. They will be able to determine what is best for you once learning what your skin goals are.” 

Dermal Fillers

“Another great treatment for reducing wrinkles and providing a more youthful appearance is dermal fillers.” added Dr. Cavalier. “Instead of relaxing the muscles they fill the lines and creases to smooth your skin.” Fillers are versatile and can be used to lift the cheeks and jowls, and smooth and soften the lines on the lower face. Fillers can last between 6 to 18 months, giving you fast results at a fraction of the cost of a facelift. Depending on your skin goals, it is common for neuromodulators and dermal fillers to be used in conjunction with each other.

Microneedling, Laser and Light-based Energy Devices 

Effective collagen boosting medical procedures to firm and regenerate the skin include microneedling, and the use of laser or light-based energy devices. These work by triggering the healing cascade in your skin to stimulate new and youthful collagen. Lasers use the technology of selective photothermolysis. Experienced providers Rachel Hawkins Duncan, PA-C; Hannah Davis, NP-C; Lindsey Gross Jones, PA-C; and Ashley Cavalier, M.D. at Atlantic Shore Dermatology can accurately diagnose skin conditions to help choose and safely perform the best laser treatments for you. Whether it is treating unwanted age spots, broken capillaries, or zapping unwanted hair or tattoos, they’ve got you covered!

When you’re ready to say “bye-bye” to your wrinkles, the skin experts at Atlantic Shore Dermatology are ready to help. Call 912.634.4966 today and schedule a consultation to find the best plan for your skin goals.