There are some people who view wrinkles as badges of honor, OR a roadmap chronicling a lifetime of experiences and wisdom gained. These people are in the minority, and in a culture obsessed with perpetual youth wrinkle removal has become a multi-billion dollar business. If one chooses to wipe the slate of their face clean, there are myriad options available. Some of simple and healthy, others involve chemicals and surgery.
Wrinkles occur because of a breakdown of collagen, the substance that gives skin its elasticity. The first steps YOU should take to remove wrinkles consists of staying out of the sun and throwing out the cigarettes. These are the two greatest enemies of collagen, and will cause not only wrinkles but also a rather leathery and sallow-faced appearance. Drinking lots of water can sometimes help remove wrinkles, as can eating a healthy diet comprised of grains, fruits, vegetables, and olive oil. Regular facial massages can sometimes help the skin regain some of its elasticity.
Another option to remove wrinkles is topical lotion. It has been shown that rubbing the pulp of avocados, grapes, and cucumbers on your face can be beneficial to the skin. Lotions and masks containing Vitamin A have become very popular in decreasing or removing wrinkles, but they must be used on a long-term basis. Other facial creams that seem to hold a degree of success contain the alpha hydroxyl acids that are an ingredient of the sugars found in fruit or milk.
Antioxidants, good for both the skin and the body in general, can prevent new wrinkles and somewhat decrease existing ones. Antioxidants available over-the-counter include Vitamins A, C, and E. These should be applied directly to the skin for best results, as should lycopene and beta-carotene. There are many creams and lotions on the market that claim to remove wrinkles, but in truth most of them are of a cosmetic nature. Most do not truly remove wrinkles; they only make them less noticeable.
More intrusive methods to remove wrinkles include chemical peels, dermabraision, and laser resurfacing. Facelifts are also popular, but the cost can run into the many thousands of dollars. People who undergo multiple facelifts often take on a very pinched and unnatural appearance. One of the most common methods to remove wrinkles, for those who seek instantaneous results, are Botox® injections.
Botox®, which is a variant of the deadly toxin found in the botulism bacteria, is injected directly into the areas where wrinkles are evident. It basically paralyzes the muscles in the area of injection, resulting in smooth skin. The effects of Botox last anywhere from three to six months, and there are some possible side effects. Anyone considering Botox® to remove wrinkles should first discuss the procedure with his physician.