Are you tired of hearing famous people claim that avoiding facial expressions such as smiling can prevent wrinkles? This idea may seem convincing when you observe their smooth and wrinkle-free skin, but it is completely far from the truth.

Wrinkles are a natural occurrence caused by ageing skin and volume loss, and not solely by smiling. Celebrities' youthful-looking skin is not due to avoiding facial expressions, but rather their access to advanced skincare treatments and procedures.

Many people feel self-conscious about wrinkles and try various methods to prevent or treat them, such as skincare routines, injections, or surgeries. However, with so much information available, it can be challenging to differentiate between what is true and what is merely a marketing tactic to sell skin products and services.

Unfortunately, there’s no magic pill that will make your skin look young forever, but there are ways to prevent damage and reduce fine lines. Here are five myths about wrinkles that we would like to debunk. 

 

5 Common Wrinkle Myths

Myth #1: My parents both have wrinkles — and I’m bound to get them, too

Fact: You may have inherited your eyes or your nose from your parents, but your wrinkles are unlikely.

Genetics is not the only factor that determines the development of wrinkles. Sun damage, also known as photo damage, is responsible for up to 90% of visible skin changes. This means that skincare is still effective in preventing wrinkles, particularly when a consistent regimen is established early in life. It is possible to slow down the skin ageing process by following these steps:

1. Use sunscreen with a SPF50 every day and reapply every two hours, even when the sun is not visible.
2. Moisturise and use protective antioxidants.
3. Avoid using products that cause stinging, burning, or inflammation.
4. Use products according to their labels or your provider's instructions.
5. Adapt your skincare products to changing skin qualities with age and different weather conditions.

Although fine lines may appear as you age, even if they don't seem to run in your family, taking care of your skin early on can prevent them from forming prematurely.

 

Myth #2: There’s one perfect anti-ageing skincare routine out there

Fact: Everyone's skin is different and so is their skincare routine. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to an anti-aging skincare.

Creating a skincare routine that works for you involves a lot of trial and error, and finding what suits your skin best. However, there are some fundamental ingredients and factors to consider that are applicable to everyone.

To make the most of your anti-aging skincare regimen, follow these tips:

• Start with one product and allow your skin to adjust before introducing additional products. Using multiple anti-aging products simultaneously can irritate your skin.
• Use products with proven clinical-grade ingredients such as retinols, antioxidants, and peptides.
• Give your routine sufficient time to work; most anti-aging products require at least six weeks to show results, and some may take up to three months.
• Continue using products that work, and don't stop once you've achieved the desired results. Prevention is key.
• Remember to utilise your resources, such as your primary care provider, dermatologist, or plastic surgeon, who specialise in skincare.

Myth #3: The best treatments for wrinkles are expensive

Fact: Many companies offer treatments and procedures that claim to eliminate wrinkles, often at a high cost. However, there are ways to care for your skin without spending a fortune.

If you've spent large sums of money on multiple anti-wrinkle creams, it's time to reconsider. The most effective wrinkle routines are minimal, and you should use as few products as possible. Reducing your skincare routine will save you money and benefit your skin. Additionally, consider medical-grade products as they are typically safer, more effective, and less costly than those sold in department or beauty supply stores.

Here at SoSmooth Skincare, we developed an inexpensive and non-invasive treatment which smooths wrinkles and plumps the skin within hours: our 100% medical grade silicone patches. Click here to check out the full range!

 

Myth #4: Moisturising prevents wrinkles from forming

Fact: It is important to moisturise your skin, but it is not a foolproof method of preventing wrinkles.

Moisturiser is a crucial skincare product, along with sunscreen, but it is often misrepresented as a wrinkle prevention method.

Moisturiser hydrates and plumps your skin by trapping water, which can make wrinkles less noticeable. However, it does not prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place. Nonetheless, moisturiser should not be discarded because it also brightens your complexion, making wrinkles less visible.

To summarise, it is recommended to moisturise regularly, but it should not be solely relied on as a means to stop the ageing process and prevent wrinkles.

Myth #5: You only need to wear sunscreen when it’s sunny

Fact: Sunscreen is an essential skincare product that should be used regularly, even on cloudy days.

It not only helps prevent skin cancer but also works as an effective anti-aging product. By shielding your skin from harmful UV rays, sunscreen allows your skin to repair itself and prevents further damage. Moreover, the latest sunscreens offer added protection from other sources of damage like blue light, infrared, and pollution, which also contribute to skin ageing.

To make the most out of your sunscreen, use a broad-spectrum product with at least SPF 15 protection for UVA and UVB rays, as well as other damaging sources. Additionally, look for sunscreens that contain antioxidants to provide extra protection against light and pollution.

It's important to note that there is no single product or procedure that can completely reverse the damage caused by not wearing sunscreen. If you like the look of sun-kissed skin, it's best to avoid tanning beds, as they can be just as damaging, if not more, than the sun. Instead, consider using a self-tanner for a healthier and safer alternative.

 

Take Care of Your Skin and Embrace Change.

It’s understandable to feel frustrated about the fine lines that naturally occur on your skin over time. However, it's important to remember that these lines represent the experiences and memories of a life well-lived. While it's important to take good care of your skin, try to embrace the changes that come with age.

While there are methods to prevent and treat wrinkles, it's important to be realistic. Wrinkles may not completely disappear, but there are ways to minimise their appearance, increase your confidence, and feel better about your skin.

Furthermore, some of the simplest and most affordable ways to fight ageing don't require any creams or expensive treatments.