Natural Wrinkle Remedies

In my 20s, I chuckled as older women obsessed over fine lines and age spots. Silly women, hadn't they heard of aging gracefully? As my late 30s descended upon me like a baby's slobbery hand on a dirty cheerio, my outlook began to change drastically. Though I am fortunate to have inherited good skin, still, I can see the foreshadowing of the dreaded crow's feet and "laugh lines" (who's laughing??).

Being a major cynic on the claims of spendy anti-aging products, I started to wonder if there were natural, cheap and easy ways to cheat Mother Nature, at least until she figures out my game and makes me pay for my vanity. Here are some quick and simple ways to use Mother Nature's own creations against her:

Natural Wrinkle Remedy #1

Olive oil isn't just for that sauteed chicken. The antioxidants in olive oil are natural age fighters and act as an effective natural wrinkle remedy. Apply to your problem areas daily.

Natural Wrinkle Remedy #2

Make lemonade - well, okay, not exactly. But lemon juice is a great astringent which tones the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Apply this natural wrinkle remedy twice daily with a cotton ball, leave on for ten minutes then rinse thoroughly.

Natural Wrinkle Remedy #3

Prevent wrinkles from the inside out. Hydration and nutrition are vital to maintaining youthful skin. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day (yes, even though it sends your aging bladder to the ladies' room - it's a small price to pay, suck it up), eat healthy and take a good quality vitamin supplement.

Natural Wrinkle Remedy #4

Stretching the skin causes wrinkles, so avoid abusing your skin by drinking too much (which causes swelling) and be gentle when you wash. Always apply your makeup by gently patting it on around the eye area - don't rub it on from the inside of the eye to the outside corner (you know who you are).

Natural Wrinkle Remedy #5

Yes, I know avocado is the cooking and health buzzword of the year, but it really is a superfood - not just for your insides but as a natural wrinkle remedy as well. Avocado is packed with healthy fats which plump and smooth skin, reducing the visibility of wrinkles. Mash it up, smear it on, wait a few minutes then rinse. Eating it is great for you too, though I'd recommend springing for a fresh one when you're done with your face.

Natural Wrinkle Remedy #6

Sun worshiping damages your skin. This can't be stressed enough. That tan doesn't look sexy or sophisticated, it just screams "I don't care about my skin!" The American Dermatological Society says the sun is the #1 risk factor for skin cancer - not only will you have extra wrinkles, you increase your chances of a serious disease. Wear sunscreen or foundation with an SPF of at least 15 every time you go outside. This is the best natural wrinkle remedy there is.

After all is said and done and you've cleared your cupboards of all possible natural wrinkle remedy agents in your attempts to thwart the hands of time, sit back with a good book, some chocolate, and enjoy your older, wiser, more beautiful you!