As you get older your skin naturally becomes less elastic and more fragile. The ability of the skin to protect itself from damage is reduced and eventually, wrinkles, creases and lines are formed. Fat cells in the subcutaneous tissue, which gives the skin a plump appearance, also diminish with age. Loose, saggy skin and more-pronounced lines and crevices result from the diminishment of these fat cells.
Ageing isn’t the sole cause of wrinkles however, a number of other factors contribute to their formation.
Exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) Light
Exposure to UV rays dramatically speeds up the natural aging process and is the main cause of premature wrinkling. UV light breaks down connective tissue causing skin to lose strength and flexibility, resulting in sagging and wrinkles.
Repeated facial expressions
Repeated movements of your facial muscles when you carry out various facial expressions, such as smiling or squinting, can lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Each time you use a facial muscle, a groove forms beneath the surface of the skin. As you get older and your skin loses its flexibility, these grooves are no longer able to spring back into place and therefore, become a permanent feature on your skin.
Smoking
Smoking decreases the capillary blood flow to the skin, depriving it of much needed oxygen and nutrients. This accelerates the normal aging process of your skin, contributing to wrinkles.
