12/22/2025
After my article on wrinkling from being in water too long, I naturally was hit with “Well, what causes age wrinkles?” Simple. Having as many kids as I did does that. Boom. Short article this week, huh?
I jest, of course. (although stress DOES factor in) Wrinkles are largely part of our natural aging process, some of us genetically better or worse than others. But there are daily factors that contribute to wrinkle formation that we can avoid.
First, understand that we have a deeper layer of skin called the dermis that contains collagen fibers. Think of these tiny fibers as ropes or pulleys that are holding our skin under tension and pull it taut, similar to the ropes of a tent. Like any human cells, these fibers die and reform daily throughout life in God’s beautiful design. Over time, the process of reformation slows with age (and with what we do to ourselves – more on that later). So, when you don’t have as many fibers (or fibers not as strong) pulling things taut, your tent will droop, right? That’s wrinkles.
So, what can we do? Besides filling them in with artificial fillers, or paralyzing your muscles with Botulinum Toxin (yes, that’s what “BoTox” is short for – a paralyzing toxin), there’s not a lot we can do. But, we can absolutely eliminate factors that contribute to this process.
Ultraviolet light contributes to the breakdown of collagen. Using a sunscreen of ample SPF or minimizing UV exposure with proper use of hats, etc. is smart wrinkle prevention. *But NOT sun avoidance, as I need your Vitamin D levels higher! Article for later.
Proper hydration is also helpful. Collagen is an elastic fiber needing hydration to form properly. Without water, the fibers formed are brittle and not as strong. This leads me to my next tip, anything that causes vasoconstriction also prevents the tissues from getting adequate hydration. Yes, I’m talking excessive caffeine intake and SMOKING. It’s no secret that long time smoker’s skin at advanced age has a notably “more weathered” appearance to put it lightly. Combine that with a life full of Mountain Dew and your face may look like a really worn baseball glove.
Nutritionally, a lack of Vitamins A, C, D, and E contribute to wrinkles, further strengthening Dr. Kirk’s persistent plea for you to be on a daily multivitamin. Omega 3 fatty acids (think fish, eggs, and walnuts, to name a few) are also helpful for healthy collagen.
Otherwise, wrinkles are just part of the path God has us on. But fret not, my fresh-faced faithful followers: Age is a just a number, mindset, and whatever inspirational meme you like. Now, if you’ll excuse me, some of y’alls faces just reminded me my kid needs a new baseball glove.
Yours in Health and Christ, Dr. Kirk
