Wrinkles are creases, ridges, folds, or fine lines that can appear on the skin over time. It is a process that occurs naturally due to aging processes such as glycation. The appearance of natural facial wrinkles is a type of fibrosis of the skin.
A theory called the misrepair-accumulation aging theory attributes wrinkles to the recurring extensions and constriction of the skin, which causes the extracellular fibers in the derma to get injured. Typically, such injuries are repaired by the body by regenerating the affected elastic and collagen fibers, but when these fibers are not regenerated, they are replaced by altered fibers, causing wrinkles.
Table of Contents
How to Get Rid of Wrinkles Naturally
- Essential Oils
- Home Remedies
- Alternative Treatments
However, aging is only one of many reasons for wrinkles to appear on the skin; wrinkles can also appear due to:
- Repeated facial expressions.
- Sun damage.
- Smoking habits.
- Dehydration.
- Reactions to some medications.
- Genetic factors.
Different Methods of Fighting Wrinkles
While wrinkles are natural and everyone will have wrinkles that will get more prominent as they age, people have resorted to various treatments and surgical procedures (like using Botox, tretinoin, laser-resurfacing, dermal fillers, and topical glycosaminoglycans supplements) to either delay the onset of wrinkles, or decrease their prominence. These treatments can sometimes have harmful side-effects, making natural remedies more appealing.
Here are some essential oils, natural remedies, and preventive care methods that you can use to get rid of wrinkles as an alternative to conventional medical procedures that can be harmful to the body.
CURE 1: Essential Oils for Wrinkles
Essential oils are extracted from specific plants and herbs using methods like distillation, expression, and supercritical CO2 extraction. The resulting compounds are believed to have various medicinal benefits, and some of them can be used to reduce the prominence of wrinkles.
While essential oils will not wholly reverse wrinkles, they can help reduce their appearance considerably. Here is a list of essential oils that are known to benefit those with wrinkles.
1. Lemon
Lemon essential oil is known for its high Vitamin C and antioxidant properties, which can help the skin from the ill-effects of oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals. It also contains alpha-tocopherol, ascorbic acid, and glutathione, which studies show can help manage wrinkles effectively.(1) Applying this essential oil to your skin can help boost your skin’s resistance to premature aging. (2)
How to Use:
Due to the oil being very rich in Vitamin C, applying it to the skin undiluted can cause a burning or stinging sensation. It is advisable to mix the lemon oil with either coconut or jojoba oil and then apply it to the affected areas, where the wrinkles and lines are noticeable.
Repeated application is necessary for noticeable results. Apply the mixture once every week or so, depending on how noticeable the wrinkles are. Be careful when using the oil as the citric acid in it can cause very harsh burning sensations if it comes in contact with the eyes. Be sure to do a patch test with the oil before applying it on your face and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are excellent carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
2. Lavender
Lavender is a popular ingredient in a lot of cosmetic products for its distinct, relaxing aromatic smell, and is often used in aromatherapy. A study found that the antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties of lavender helped treat oxidative stress and the brain. Lavender could have similar effects on the skin. However, there is not enough research done on the subject to say that conclusively.
How to use:
A popular way to use lavender essential oil to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are excellent carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
3. Frankincense
Frankincense oil is obtained from the aromatic gum resin of the African Boswellia sacra tree. The oil builds the skin’s resistance against bacteria, tones it, and helps maintain its elasticity, making it an ideal choice for those looking to get rid of wrinkles.
It is also shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, promote the building of collagen fibers. A study showed that it was effective in promoting healing of wounds, thus improving the appearance and look of scars and wrinkles.
How to use:
An excellent way to use frankincense essential oil to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are excellent carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
4. Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is often touted as one of the best remedies for wrinkles and aging. It is extracted from the seeds of rose hips. It contains some of the best nutrients for skin health and has great anti-aging effects. It is rich in essential fatty acids like oleic, linoleic, gamma-linoleic and palmitic acids, all of which work like magic to fight dryness of the skin, thereby reducing or even removing wrinkles. Rose hips are a rich source of Vitamin C, which aids the production of collagen. (3) (4).
How to use:
A good way to use rosehip essential oil to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils like rosehip oil to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are great carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Before applying any oils to the face, make sure to do a patch test for 24 hours to see if your skin reacts adversely to the oil. If there is no redness, irritation, or signs of allergy, then you can apply the essential oil mixture to the face once daily.
5. Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant herb that has an array of health benefits, including being able to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Its essential oil helps in making the skin firm, thereby reducing wrinkles. It is not advisable to use rosemary oil on dry skin as it absorbs moisture and excess oils on the skin. On the contrary, it is great for those with oily skin or those with acne.
The benefits of rosemary are:
- It is a natural astringent.
- Stimulates circulation, increasing blood flow and bringing nutrients to the surface of the skin.
- Rich in antioxidants.
- Has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Reduces redness and puffiness.
- Good for oily skin and acne.
How to use:
A good way to use rosemary essential oil to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils like rosemary oil to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are great carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
6. Clary Sage
This is primarily used as an antidepressant and is a very potent antioxidant that has the potential to reduce the effects of oxidative stress on the skin.(5) Free radicals, which cause oxidative stress that can damage the skin and further the effects of aging(6), but clary sage curbs the effects of these free radicals and helps keep your skin looking the best.
How to use:
A good way to use clary sage essential oil is to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils like clary sage oil to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are great carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
7. Sandalwood
Sandalwood has been used for its medicinal properties since ancient times as part of Ayurvedic healing methods. The rare, aromatic wood has anti-inflammatory effects that have been proven to treat warts, psoriasis, acne, and eczema.(7) It is also very good at combating the effects of aging and can minimize the appearance of wrinkles to a considerable extent.
How to use:
A good way to use sandalwood essential oil to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils like sandalwood oil to the skin without mixing it with a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are great carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
8. Carrot Seed Oil
Carrot seed oil is great at protecting the skin from the harmful effects of radiation from the sun and is even used in over-the-counter cosmetics for its richness in antioxidants. Research has shown that carrot seed oil is effective in reducing the breakdown of healthy skin cells and promotes the rejuvenation of the skin.(8)
How to use:
A good way to use carrot seed essential oil to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils like carrot seed oil to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are great carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
9. Pomegranate Seed Oil
Combating aging effects like wrinkles and fine lines is only one of the many health benefits that pomegranate seed oil offers, it also hosts anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It works by regenerating the upper layer of the skin, the epidermis, by stimulating keratinocytes.(9)
How to use:
A good way to use pomegranate seed essential oil to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils like pomegranate seed oil to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are great carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
10. Neroli
Neroli oil is not as favorable as it should be, given the various health benefits it offers. The oil is carefully extracted from the flowers of the bitter orange using a method called steam distillation. The oil reduces scarring, minimizes age spots, fights acne, hydrates the skin, and smoothens the wrinkles.
How to use:
A good way to use neroli essential oil to reduce wrinkles is to mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba, or sweet almond oil and gently massage it into the affected areas of the skin. Before applying the oil to your skin, make sure to do a patch test and discontinue use if you notice any discomfort or irritation.
How much to use:
It is not advisable to apply essential oils like neroli seed oil to the skin without mixing it in a carrier oil first. Olive, coconut, jojoba, almond, and avocado are great carrier oils that you can use. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends that you use the following proportions when applying essential oils to the face:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
CURE 2: Home Remedies for Wrinkles
Wrinkles can be an annoying cosmetic issue, but there are plenty of mainstream invasive and non-invasive medical procedures and treatments that can help with this issue, however, it is often the case that these procedures have damaging side-effects. Thankfully, there are some natural remedies that you can use to get rid of wrinkles.
We’ve compiled a list of natural remedies to answer your question on how to get rid of wrinkles:
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent whose list of medical benefits is seemingly endless. It is used to treat everything from constipation to protection against skin damage from radiation therapy. The gel inside the fleshy leaves of the aloe vera can also be used to treat wrinkles and fine lines on the skin by promoting skin regeneration and healing. It is a natural antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties that work together to reverse sun damage.
How to Use:
Aloe Vera can be used in several different ways, but the best way to use Aloe Vera to get rid of wrinkles is to apply natural aloe vera gel on the skin for about 5-10 minutes so the skin can absorb the nutrients. Once the gel dries, you can rinse the residue off with cold water. Do this once every day for best results.
How Much to Use:
There is no recommended dosage for aloe vera. Before applying it to your face, make sure to do a patch test to confirm that you are not allergic to it and won’t have any adverse reactions to it.
2. Banana
Bananas are excellent sources of natural oils and Vitamins that are essential to maintain healthy skin. They contain high amounts of potassium, Vitamin A, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. Bananas are great at reducing wrinkles, acne, and zits. They work by removing the dead skin cells, giving your face an even skin tone.
How to use:
Mash up a quarter a banana and mix it with some honey until it forms a thick, but smooth paste and apply a thick layer on your face. Let it dry and then rinse it off with cold water.
How much to use:
Use quarter a banana and enough honey to make a thick, smooth paste. Use this method once a week.
3. Egg Membrane
While the egg whites or albumen are good to tighten your skin and shrink your pores, it is the thin egg membrane that separates the fluid content of the egg from the shell that does the best job at reducing wrinkles because it contains a natural form of collagen, it is the lack of this very protein that causes wrinkles. Applying a mixture of rose water and egg membranes could help you get rid of wrinkles.
How to use:
Make a mixture of rose water and egg membrane and gently massage it on your skin, to allow your skin to absorb the nutrients in the mixture. Rinse the mixture off after about 10 minutes with cold water.
How much to use:
Use about 2 egg membranes and a tablespoon of rose water. Use this method thrice a week for noticeable results.
4. Honey
Using honey is another excellent natural remedy that is a blessing to your skin. It contains natural polysaccharides that are great for getting rid of wrinkles by promoting the growth of new skin cells. It also moisturizes the skin, balances the pH levels, removes dead skin cells, has antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
How to use:
Mix dry oats, honey, lemon juice, and ripe avocado to make a thick paste. Apply the mask on your face and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Rinse the mask off with cold water. Apply this mask a few times a week for noticeable results.
How much to use:
One teaspoon of dry oats, two teaspoons of honey, two teaspoons of lemon juice and a quarter of a ripe avocado.
5. Lemon Juice
Vitamin C in lemons is great for getting rid of wrinkles and making your skin look brighter and healthier. It also contains alpha-tocopherol, ascorbic acid, and glutathione, which studies show can help manage wrinkles effectively.
How to use:
Lemon juice can be harsh on the skin if applied directly. It’s advisable to dilute it with water and then apply it to the affected parts of the skin. Do this twice a week for noticeable results.
How much to use:
Mix lemon juice from 2 lemons and water in equal proportions.
6. Avocado
Avocados are a lot more than just a tasty and healthy snack that you can enjoy with a salad. They are a great source of antioxidants, which are essential to fight the effects aging can have on your skin. You can get rid of wrinkles effortlessly by using the mask described below.
How to use:
Mash avocado and oats to make a paste of thick creamy consistency. Apply this mask on your face and leave it on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water for glowing skin.
How much to use:
Use half a ripe avocado and a tablespoon of oats.
7. Rose Oil
Like rosehip oil, rose oil contains healthy amounts of Vitamin A, which helps in the regeneration of skin cells, thereby reducing the prominence of wrinkles. It also contains Vitamin C, which helps even the tone of the skin out. The molecules in rose oils can pass through the upper layers of the skin and deliver the nutrients where they are required the most.
How to use:
Mix the rose oil with a carrier oil like almond, or jojoba and apply the mixture wherever there are wrinkles or fine lines.
How much to use:
For adults:
Sensitive skin: 0.5 to 1 percent dilution = 3 to 6 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Normal, healthy skin: 1 to 2.5 percent dilution = 6 to 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
8. Tomato
Tomatoes are one of the most effective natural remedies to get rid of wrinkles and fine lines as they contain lycopene, which makes the skin less sensitive to ultraviolet rays. They also contain healthy amounts of beta-carotene and Vitamin C, which protects the skin from sun damage.
How to use:
apply the pulp of the tomato to the face to get rid of wrinkles.
How much to use:
Use the pulp of about two ripe tomatoes. Do this every other day for best results.
9. Yogurt
Yogurt contains an alpha hydroxy acid called lactic acid that has the potential to dissolve dead skin cells to reveal glowing new skin. Using the mask described before will further your efforts to get rid of wrinkles to a considerable extent.
How to use:
Mix rose water, yogurt, Manuka honey, and some rose petals to make a velvety paste. Apply the paste on your skin and then leave it for 10 minutes and then rinse it off.
How much to use:
Use 2 tablespoons of rosewater, one tablespoon of yogurt, one tablespoon of Manuka honey, and 5-6 rose petals.
10. Kiwi
The Kiwi fruit might be tiny, but it is a powerhouse of nutrients and Vitamins in its own right. It contains a higher concentration of Vitamin C than most other fruits. Directly incorporating this fruit into your diet will make your skin look much better, and you will get rid of your wrinkles and fine lines.
How to use:
Incorporate the fruit into your diet, but make sure it is a healthy, balanced amount.
How much to use:
There is no recommended dosage, but you must ensure that your diet does not contain a disproportionate quantity of kiwis and is balanced from a dietary perspective.
CURE 3: Alternate Remedies
Using the remedies listed above will help you get rid of wrinkles that seemed like they’re here to stay. However, it is crucial to take preventive care measures to prevent the situation from worsening.
Here is a list of things you can do to prevent wrinkles from forming:
1. Wear Sunscreen
Sun damage is one of the most common causes of wrinkles and premature aging, and wearing a sunscreen with at least an SPF 30 every time you step out can help you defend your skin against the harmful rays of the sun. When it’s sunny out, wear clothing that exposes the skin to as little sunlight as possible.
The use of sunscreen should not be restricted to a day out by the pool, daily use of a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more can do your skin wonders – it helps curb the risk of skin cancer, and has been proven to reduce the effects aging has on the skin.
While the position you sleep in might not seem like much of a contributing factor to your wrinkles and premature aging, it plays a substantial role in the prominence of your wrinkles, according to dermatologists.
Sleeping on your side can cause ‘sleep lines’ that are fine parallel lines that occur around the eyes and mouth. Years of sleeping on the side can cause facial asymmetry and can make your face rub against the pillow, causing inflammation that hurts cell turnover, which is the skin’s natural way of getting rid of dead skin cells.
3. Massage
There are several types of facial massages that can help stimulate the circulation of blood, which prevents the formation of new wrinkles and smoothens out existing wrinkles.
The circular massage is a simple massage technique that can help you get rid of wrinkles at home. Start by cleaning your face and hands to prevent bacteria from entering the pores. Use a good amount of moisturizer and massage the face in very gentle circular motions while focusing on the wrinkled areas such as the forehead, mouth area, and the eyes.
4. Facial Exercises
Facial exercises that are designed to reduce wrinkles can be a great way to get your skin to look youthful and glowing. They work by stimulating the hypodermis, the dermis, and the epidermis to increase circulation, making room for oxygen and other nutrients to reach the skin.
This stimulates the production of collagen and elastin in the dermis, leaving you with beautiful skin that looks younger and healthier.
5. Use Silk Pillowcases
What if we told you that managing your wrinkles could be as simple as replacing your pillowcases with ones made of silk? It’s as true as it sounds outlandish. Using silk pillowcases contain proteins that make it hypoallergenic, so it’s not harsh on the skin.
It also keeps your skin supple by helping with moisture retention by allowing your nighttime products stay on your skin and not get absorbed by the pillowcase. It also reduces friction and abrasion, thereby increasing cell turnover.
Tips to Prevent Wrinkles
Here are some tips that you can use to prevent new wrinkles and manage existing ones:
- Eat foods that are rich in antioxidants, fiber, Omega-3, and Vitamins. Keep foods with saturated fat to a minimum. Functional foods that will help prevent wrinkles include green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and berries.
- Keeping yourself hydrated is key to having healthy skin. Drinking adequate water flushes out toxins from the body.
- Keep your skin protected from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
- It is vital that your body gets as much sleep as it needs. Getting too little sleep could cause your skin to show signs of aging much earlier than it should.
- Only use products that have especially been formulated for your skin type.
- Getting facials can cleanse your skin and leave it soft and supple.
- Always take off all makeup before going to bed. Leaving makeup overnight could cause it to clog up your pores, which can accelerate the effects of aging and give you more wrinkles.
Hopefully, this article has managed to convey the answers to the often asked question, “how to get rid of wrinkles?”
In summary, you can use various essential oils like lemon, pomegranate, and lavender to smoothen your skin out and get rid of wrinkles without having to resort to conventional medical procedures that can have harmful side-effects. You can also reduce the appearance of your wrinkles and fine lines by using some of the many home remedies mentioned in the article, such as by incorporating kiwis into your diet, applying avocado masks, and using lemon juice.
Make sure you wear sunscreen when you step out into the sun and also keep in mind that you should eat foods that are rich in antioxidants and Vitamins to get your skin to glow.
FAQs
1. What is good for wrinkles?
Eating food that is rich in antioxidants and Vitamins A and C makes a massive difference to the appearance of wrinkles on the skin. Fruits like bananas, kiwis, oranges, and lemons are great sources of these nutrients.
2. Does smoking cause wrinkles?
Research shows that smoking does exacerbate wrinkles, fine lines, and other skin issues attributed to the aging process.
3. Does lemon juice help reduce wrinkles?
Yes, as detailed in the article above, lemon juice is a great source of antioxidants, especially Vitamin C and is a boon for anyone looking to get rid of their wrinkles.