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5 myths about wrinkles, busted

Wrinkles are creases in the skin—most of which are the result of aging—and, unfortunately, there's little you can do to prevent them.

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Wrinkles are a normal part of life for most of us. These pesky creases in our skin develop with age, but certain factors, like the sun and exposure to cigarette smoke, can speed up the process. Unfortunately, there is little you can actually do to slow down aging skin.

Avoiding exposure to smoke and protecting your skin from the sun can help, but what if the damage isShow More

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Myth: all wrinkles are the same

Not all wrinkles, known by the medical term rhytids, are the same; their causes vary, too. "Deeper wrinkles are definitely caused by the sun, and fine lines are more genetic wrinkles," according to Dr. Green.

Still, there are more variations.

  • Dynamic wrinkles are caused by contracting the muscles
  • Show More
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Myth: You only need to wear sunscreen on sunny days

Protecting your skin during all types of weather, not just sunny days, is important. Lack of protection from the sun may result in early wrinkles. Experts believe between 80 and 90 percent of visible skin aging is caused by the sun. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of the sun’s rays can reachShow More

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Myth: moisturizing your skin will reverse wrinkles

Not exactly. Your skin loses moisture as you age, making fine lines and wrinkles more pronounced. Most facial moisturizers don't reverse existing wrinkles or prevent future ones, but they can hydrate the skin, which plumps the face and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

However, certain creamsShow More

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Myth: if your mom doesn't have wrinkles, you won't either

There's a bit of truth to this one. Genes play a role in the way your skin ages. The amount of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin color, affects how likely your skin is to burn. Those with fair skin are typically more sensitive to sun damage, which can age skin prematurely.

However, if yourShow More

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Myth: drinking water in excess can prevent (and reverse) wrinkles

Staying well hydrated, is good for your overall health, but drinking water in excess won't restore a youthful glow—or reverse the signs of aging.

Here's the truth: Drinking plenty of water and eating hydrating foods can slightly increase your skin's moisture levels, which might make fine lines lessShow More

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The truth about treating wrinkles

Even if you reduce sun and smoke exposure, use retinoid products and hydrate, skin will still inevitably age. Wrinkles do not affect physical health but if you find them bothersome, there are more drastic steps you can take.

There are cosmetic treatments available, but they are elective proceduresShow More

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