Wrinkles develop with age due to damage caused by the sun, changes in skin cell production, a reduced number of collagen proteins in the skin and gradual thinning of the skin. Although you can’t prevent the internal factors that lead to wrinkles, you can support youthful-looking skin through a skin care regimen and a healthy lifestyle.

An anti-aging skin care regimen can help support healthy skin and potentially reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. An anti-aging skin care regimen typically includes:

• Cleanser: A gentle facial cleanser intended for your skin type can help wash away dirt, excess oil and other impurities that can clog pores and irritate the skin. Starting your AM and PM regimen with cleansing can also help prepare your complexion for other skin care products.
• Treatment(s): Treatments are skin care products that address a specific concern. Serums, creams and lotions formulated to address wrinkles often contain retinol, a derivative of vitamin A that boosts the cellular turnover process. Antioxidant vitamin C and moisturizing hyaluronic acid are also common ingredients in anti-wrinkle products.
• Moisturizer: By increasing hydration levels, moisturizers help skin feel softer and smoother. Because fine lines and wrinkles are often more prominent when skin becomes dehydrated, moisturizers may also help skin appear more youthful. Choose a moisturizer formulated for your skin type and use it in the morning and at night.

Harmful UV rays from the sun can cause skin to age prematurely and increase the risk of developing some types of skin cancer. To support skin health, healthcare providers generally recommend applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day. If you’ll be spending time outdoors, reapply sunscreen once every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.

To reap the full benefits of anti-aging products, follow these tips:

• Incorporate one new treatment at a time so you can see how your skin responds
• Adhere to the directions for use printed on the packaging
• Apply products by patting and smoothing rather than rubbing vigorously
• Spot-test products on the inside of your arm for a few days before using a new product on your face
• Stop using a product if you notice signs of irritation, such as redness, itching or stinging
• Use products that may cause sun sensitivity, such as retinol, at night, and apply sunscreen in the morning to protect your skin

Making the following changes to your lifestyle can help support your anti-aging efforts:

• Stop smoking, as chemicals found in cigarettes may inhibit the production of collagen, the structural protein that supports skin firmness
• Drink plenty of water daily to support skin hydration and overall health
• Eat a well-balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean protein, fruits and vegetables
• Use sunless tanning products in lieu of tanning beds or sunbathing

Topical skin care products often take weeks to produce noticeable results, so be patient as you get started with your anti-wrinkle regimen. If the tips outlined above don’t give you the results you want within a few months, discuss clinical treatments with your healthcare provider. Prescription-strength topical products, injections and procedures can help support your anti-aging skin care regimen, and your healthcare provider can help you determine which are the best fit for your specific needs.

Published July 2024.