Wrinkles are sagging, thin and creased skin that is noticeable on various parts of the body, particularly on the face, hands and neck. Areas of skin that is exposed to the sun and outside elements are the most likely to get wrinkles. There are several reasons for the causes of wrinkles, however, knowing what factors are involved in increasing wrinkles may help to prevent or reduce them.

Free Radicals
Exposure to everyday pollutants can cause free radicals in the skin. Free radicals are toxins in the body from environmental pollution such as industrial pollution, exhaust fumes from cars. The free radicals are destructive to skin and break down the collagen in skin which can cause wrinkles. Decreasing over-exposure to free radical causing toxins may help prevent or reduce the wrinkles on exposed skin. Long periods of sun exposure and UV rays also causes an increase in the formation of free radicals. The UV rays penetrate into the deepest layers of skin resulting in loss of elasticity and premature aging. Wearing sunscreen and limiting time in the sun may help to reduce the amount of sun damage.

Smoking
During the aging process, collagen production in the skin naturally decreases, however, smoking cigarettes greatly increases the loss of collagen. Smoking also decreases the blood flow which deprives the skin of oxygen and nutrients. Smoking causes an increase of fine lines and wrinkles especially around the mouth. Quitting smoking will help to reduce the appearance of additional fine lines and wrinkles.

Dehydration
As skin ages, it loses the ability to hold enough water due to a decrease in hyaluronic acid, molecules found in the deepest layers of skin that bind water molecules to the skin and there is a decrease in the turnover of cells on the top layers of skin. The longer the cells are attached to the outer layer of skin, the more time they have to dry out. When the skin becomes dehydrated from the lack of water, it begins to show signs of aging and causes wrinkles. Drinking more water will help move the toxins out of the body and keep skin hydrated which can make your skin look firmer and have less wrinkles.

Poor Diet
Eating an unhealthy diet that consist of processed food and fast food lead to wrinkles. A poor diet does not provide the antioxidants and nutrients your body needs for healthy skin. The lack of essential antioxidants and nutrients that come from eating fresh fruits and vegetables, can cause the skin to have fine lines and wrinkles.

Lack of Sleep
High levels of cortisol in the body causes a break down of delicate tissues, causes puffiness and thins the skin as well as increases wrinkles. Not getting enough sleep increases cortisol levels and eventually leads to wrinkles and fine lines. Stress is cause of wrinkles and lines because during stress, the body is not strong enough to fight the free radicals and stress can lead to difficulties sleeping which increases cortisol. To prevent wrinkles, get enough at least eight hours ofsleep each night and avoid stressful situations.