How to Prevent Mouth Wrinkles

As we age, our skin loses some of its elasticity, resulting in wrinkles. Initially, wrinkles will only be apparent when you make a particular facial movement. Over time, those wrinkles will be present even when you are not making the particular expression. Wrinkles around the mouth are particularly common due to the amount of talking and smiling we do. There are, however, things you can do to prevent mouth wrinkles.

Instructions

1. Wear sunscreen every day. The sun's damaging rays speed up the aging process. To avoid mouth wrinkles, keep your skin protected from the sun. Choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and preferably one with a high SPF rating. If you sweat or swim, reapply sunscreen often.

2. Cleanse your face daily with an alpha hydroxy cleanser. Alpha hydroxy acids have been shown to encourage collagen production in the skin. This means that new, younger-looking skin cells are produced more rapidly, thereby replacing older, damaged cells. Lotions and serums are also available which contain these healthy acids.

3. Consume a well-balanced diet, rich in nutrients and vitamins. Avoid processed foods and opt for fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Take a daily multi-vitamin to cover your bases, and get sufficient amounts of vitamins A, C and E, as all are essential to healthy, fresh skin.

4. Talk to your dermatologist about Botox injections. If you already have mouth wrinkles, Botox can soften them. If you don't have them yet, Botox will work in a preventative manner, discouraging wrinkles from forming in the area. As Botox temporarily paralyzes the facial muscles beneath wrinkles, you won't be able to make particular expressions that cause wrinkles. A skilled dermatologist can inject Botox in a manner that allows for facial movement but still prevents wrinkling.

5. Drink plenty of water. For your skin to be young-looking and healthy, it needs to be hydrated from inside. When your skin is moist, fine lines and wrinkles are less apparent.

6. Get daily cardiovascular exercise. Regular exercise improves circulation which helps delay wrinkling.

7. Avoid holding facial expressions for extended amounts of time. Oftentimes, we hold tension in our jaws that extends down to our mouth areas. Release any tension that you're holding in your jaw or mouth throughout the day. Breathe deeply and loosen the muscles around the mouth to delay wrinkling.

8. Get adequate sleep every night to keep skin looking healthy and fresh.

9. Do not smoke. Smoking has been shown to cause wrinkles and increase the aging process.