Fine Lines

Fine lines are the most common sign of aging. They are mostly the result of exposure to the elements, chiefly sun exposure. However, one can also be predisposed to wrinkles through heredity and things like smoking never helps matters at all. Of all the skin imperfections to deal with, fine lines can be the easiest. There is much in the way of skin care to help alleviate the appearance of fine lines. While some opt to deal with fine lines from the outside in, some opt to deal from the inside out. Some remedies do a little bit of both.

There are many anti aging, anti wrinkle creams on the market that contain alpha hydroxy acids, glycolic acids and vitamins A and C to help soften fine lines. These products can stimulate collagen production filling in fine lines as well as get rid of dead skin. The sloughing off of the top layer of skin encourages the newer, more youthful skin underneath to appear. Masques with exfoliants that are granular or chemical based also help new skin to show through. When used in conjunction with other anti aging skin care products, a consistent application over a period of time can result in lines softening or disappearing altogether.

Fine lines that do not respond to creams can be alleviated with the help of dermal fillers. Dermal fillers such as collagen can be injected straight into fine lines where collagen stores have depleted. This process can take as little as fifteen minutes on an out patient basis in a dermatologist's office. With this procedure, results can last for three to six months. Using a mixture of Botox with the collagen can further enhance the results. The procedure is quite affordable, requiring no anesthetic in most cases or any down time. As with all injections, minor bruising can occur. It is not unheard of for some patients to have the procedure done over their lunch hour from work.

Another alternative that effectively fights fine lines is a diet high in green leafy vegetables, vitamin E and plenty of water. A healthy diet results in healthy skin. When based on natural foods, a healthy diet is known to be a definite skin booster that can successfully banish a number of fine lines on the face. There are powerful antioxidants in a number of foods such as kiwis, broccoli and strawberries. Polyphenols found in green tea are also documented age fighters. Those whose diet bans the intake of preservatives and refined products such as sugar are well known for having noticeably younger skin.