Wrinkles and fine lines can age us prematurely. Even though we are only as young as we feel, it can be hard to feel youthful when you have visible signs of aging.

Knowing how to prevent wrinkles is the key to having younger-looking skin. From staying hydrated to protecting yourself in the San Diego sun, following a few simple rules can help your skin look years younger.

This guide will go over everything you need to know about preventing wrinkles and maintaining that youthful glow.

1. Prevent Wrinkles From the Sun

Having warm sunlight on your face is one of the best feelings in the world. Skin damage from the sun’s harmful UV rays, however, is an unpleasant side effect.

While we all need fresh air and time spent in the sun, we also need to be smart about protecting ourselves.

When you live near San Diego, the sun shines a lot. The sun’s UV rays can cause wrinkles.

Studies show that using a sunscreen with at least an SPF 30 can slow down the effects of aging on our skin. Sunscreen is the best line of defense when it comes to what prevents wrinkles.

For additional sun protection, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses as well. When it’s cloudy out, even if you can’t see the sun, know that the UV light is still able to get through. Don’t forget to slather on the sunscreen even when it is cloudy.

Remember to always reapply throughout the day and especially after getting out of the water.

2. How to Prevent Aging With Retinoid

One of the most powerful anti-aging tools is retinoids. Retinoids come from Vitamin A. Retinoids are known to increase our body’s collagen production. The more collagen you produce the plumper your skin will look.

Retinoids have also been known to regenerate skin. New blood vessels will be created that can improve the look, texture, and feel of your skin.

There are different types of retinoids that all have a different level of potency. You can buy some retinoid products in a gel and cream form over the counter. Other retinoid products are only available by prescription.

To test how your skin reacts to these creams, start with a small amount. Only use the cream every other day. Before you start using any new product or if you feel as though you need a prescription, speak with your dermatologist.

3. Keep Your Skin Moisturized

One of the best things you can do to prevent wrinkles is to use a moisturizer. Every morning after you clean your face and before you go to bed, put on a generous amount of moisturizer.

As we age, our skin becomes dryer. To help lock in moisture, it’s essential to use lotion once or twice a day.

A clean, fragrance-free lotion that has vitamin C and hyaluronic acid will work best. You can use this right after you wash your face and before you apply your sunscreen or makeup.

The more moisture you have on your skin, the fewer wrinkles you’ll see.

4. Drink Plenty of Water and Stay Hydrated

Your body needs water for literally everything. Any bodily function will do better with more water.

While drinking water is good for you in general, water will keep your skin hydrated outside as well as inside. This is especially important in the San Diego area where the temperature is always high.

Water helps to flush toxins from our body, digest food, and also regulates your body temperature.

All of these functions can impact how hydrated or wrinkled your skin will appear. Drinking water, water with lemon, or even herbal tea will help you stay hydrated.

Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine, alcohol, and sugary sodas. These can all dry out your skin and cause dehydration.

5. Eat Well With Vitamin-Rich Food

Like drinking water, eating well is something that will benefit everything your body does. If you can specifically eat a lot of foods that are rich in vitamins, you’ll see fewer new wrinkles popping up.

The more fruit you can eat with these essential vitamins the better. If you frequently eat sugar, trans fats, and a lot of red meat, you will see a lot more wrinkles.

There are also certain foods that are known to combat inflammation. If your body is given too many processed foods, it may start to trigger excess inflammation. This can cause your skin to age prematurely.

Foods and drinks that are known to protect your skin from aging and inflammation are olive oil, salmon, avocados, green tea, and flax seeds. Vegetables are also key here.

In terms of which vegetables to eat to see fewer wrinkles forming, focus on carrots, leafy greens, broccoli, bell peppers, and pumpkin.

6. Don’t Smoke

Smoking isn’t good for any aspect of your health. It can also be really hard on your skin.  Tobacco has been known to damage your skin’s elastin and collagen.

Nicotine can also force the constriction of your blood vessels. If your blood flow is restricted, you won’t have blood or oxygen flowing to your skin.

The Mayo Clinic also suggests that the heat from cigarettes might cause wrinkles as well.

When it comes to smoking is that you aren’t doing your skin any favors with this habit.

When to Visit a Skincare Professional

Practicing a few simple skin care tricks can help you prevent wrinkles and keep your face looking youthful.

From wearing sunscreen to drinking plenty of water, there are a few things you can do each day to dramatically improve the look of your skin.

No matter how old you are, it is never too early or late to try and prevent wrinkles. Staying hydrated, eating well, and using the right products can all help keep your face wrinkle-free.

If you’re ready to speak with a San Diego area skincare professional, check out the wrinkle treatments available here to learn more.