New researches used 3D models to look at how dry skin causes wrinkles

Wrinkles are the sign of ageing that everyone (including ourselves) wants to delay as long as we can, that is why since an early age we start applying all sort of products that promises to prevent their emerging. It is true that wrinkles are a natural and unavoidable consequence of getting old, but the way we physically interact with many products, devices, make up and even clothes can play a fundamental role in how fast wrinkles appear.

A recent study conducted by researches at the University of Southampton and the University of Cape Town in South Africa, in collaboration with colleagues at the University of Stanford in the USA, have approach a biomechanical perspective to understanding what causes wrinkles. As it is well known, skin's moisture levels play an important role in the development of wrinkles, and this can be motivated by environmental conditions, use of moisturizer cream, razors and other products.

To understand the impact of such fact, the team of scientists developed a group of quantitative computer models to create three-dimensional characterizations of skin wrinkles. One of these focus on the study of micro-wrinkles, smalls lines marked in the surface of the skin usually responsible for first wrinkles appearances and which can become much deeper, larger and more visible when the outermost skin layer gets dry.

According to Dr. Georges Limbert, lead author of the investigation, "as relative humidity drops, this outer layer -the stratum corneum- becomes dryer and stiffer. When this happens, the micro-wrinkles at the surface of the skin, induced by facial muscle actions like smiling, become much deeper, larger and, therefore, more visible. This can happen in a matter of a few hours so the immediate answer is to keep our skin hydrated in order to minimize the creation of micro-wrinkles".

Long before, researches had already shown that a drier skin could lead to a more premature emerging of wrinkles, but this new 3D models that study how wrinkles form in the first place and focus on blood fats or lipids, will allow industry and scientific teams to design innovative preventive and treatment solutions that can delay and mitigate the effects of ageing on our skin even in the long term.

Meanwhile, how can we prevent them?

By the age of 20, skin-repair replacement mechanism begins to slow down and this makes it the right moment to start building a routine in pro of our skin. Specialists highlight the importance of daily sunscreen lotion as well as night cleaning, either with specific products or just cold water and a neutral soap.  Getting good sleep, taking vitamins A and E, and minimizing sugar intake help to keep the skin glowing. Meals also play an important role. Fish that contain Omega-3 fatty acids act on the health of the skin and protect it from toxins and UV rays. This can be found in salmon or tuna. Nuts, green leaves vegetables, and olive oil also help to keep the elasticity of skin and delay wrinkles for emerging early.

Latin American Post | Krishna Jaramillo

Copy edited by Laura Rocha Rueda