How to Be Proactive in Preventing Wrinkles

Why even consider going under the needle to combat wrinkles when a little proactive self-care can do the trick? Take extra time to pamper yourself, and your skin will thank you for it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sunscreen SPF 30 or above
• Foundation with SPF 15 or above
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Cover up
• Anti-aging cream
• Retin-A (optional, available by prescription only)

1. See dermatologist so she can evaluate the level of sun damage you have already accrued.

2. Ask her for any tips and treatments (including Retin-A, the only known drug that is scientifically proven to reduce wrinkles) she may recommend based on your current skin condition.

3. Apply an anti-aging cream to your forehead, mouth/laugh line areas and neck in the morning.

4. Apply an eye-lifting serum to your under eyes and the corners of your eyes.

5. Makeup your face as you normally would, but using a foundation with an SPF of at least 15 in it.

6. Pack a hat, sunglasses, cover up or jacket and a sunscreen made specifically for faces in your bag or car before leaving.

7. Put on the hat, sunglasses and facial sunscreen if you will be arriving at an outside or sunny destination. If not, put on sunscreen a half an hour before you plan to be in the sunlight again.

8. Take all your makeup off at night to avoid it seeping into your facial creases as you sleep.

9. Apply Retin-A or another nighttime wrinkle reducer to your problem spots before going to bed.

10. Repeat the process the next day.

Tips & Warnings

• Many doctors say adding daily vitamins and exercise to our routines, as well as changing our diets, can help fight wrinkles. Take every opportunity you can to engage in these behaviors
• When you take close-up photos of yourself keep a few in an easily accessible place and occasionally compare them to how you currently look to check for any new wrinkles, sags or age spots
• When talking to someone try to avoid raising and lowering your forehead in a dramatic manner. Be especially careful of this when you are by yourself and not conscious of the automatic habits you engage in
• Don't sleep on your face at night. Bunching your face up in a pillow or sleeping on your stomach can put extra weight on your face, therefore causing wrinkles
• Avoid smoking, smokers and alcohol, which can deplete your skin of moisture, whenever possible