We are constantly bombarded with commercial after commercial of wrinkle treatment creams for women. It seems as though there is a new one out every week that promises to “smooth the appearance of wrinkles” or “make fine wrinkles disappear overnight”. The fact of the matter is, most, if not all of these products, have no chance of making any significant impact on facial wrinkles at all. Yet, despite the largely hollow claims of wrinkle resolution, what fascinates me more is the seeming disregard for the potential male wrinkle wrestler.

Whether it’s a consequence of our culture or simply a product of the male character, men don’t seem nearly as concerned with the progression of laugh lines, crow’s feet or frown furrows as women clearly are. Perhaps men don’t feel comfortable openly discussing their concerns about their appearance.  Maybe talking about wrinkles falls into the same category as crying for men. It’s just something that men are not “supposed” to do. Times are changing though, as it appears that men are slowly starting to consider the care and upkeep of their bodies in general and not just by going to the gym once in a while.

While they get nowhere near the same exposure as women’s cosmetics, there is definitely a gradual growth in men’s facial cosmetics and anti-wrinkle treatments. Many of these products are aimed at providing men with some basic skin protection and maintenance, which is a first step in taking better care of the face that has to last us a lifetime.

Metrosexuals and other image conscious segments of the male population are the first to embrace the new emphasis on facial skin care for men and the fight against wrinkles. However, there is no need to go on an expensive shopping spree in order to take some sound skin maintenance measures. Simple actions that every man can take to give him the best chance of delaying the inevitable wrinkle roundup are close at hand.

Below we look at some common sense strategies for men in an effort to potentially delaying the onset of wrinkles.

Men’s Wrinkle Fighting Tips:

Water & Wrinkles  - We hear it everyday from everywhere and there is a reason for it! Drinking enough water to keep the body hydrated is a huge factor in taking care of men’s skin. Too often, men push themselves without slowing down a little and giving their bodies the basic elements it needs to function effectively. The skin is the largest organ of the body and takes more punishment than any other. It is crucial that we keep it healthy through supplying it plenty of water so that it can repair damage and protect the other organs within. Consuming water throughout the day and increasing that intake in times of physical exertion will ensure that the skin is given a constant supply of moisture. Maintaining a good level of moisture in the skin can significantly improve the skins appearance and perhaps be a key weapon in the fight against wrinkles.

Sleep & Wrinkles – It seems as though someone has pressed the fast forward button on life these days and the basic essentials of life, like sleep, are being forgotten. Sleep is enormously important to all aspects of our physical makeup and without it the body tends to age at a faster rate. Sleep is a design component of the human system and attempting to circumvent that process will only result in damage to the body and premature aging. During the week, try to stick to a consistent sleep routine with an adequate number of hours every night. Practicing what is termed as “good sleep hygiene” is a key to a good night’s sleep. Sleep hygiene includes aspects such as no distracting items in the bedroom, keeping the room fairly dark and reducing ambient noise.

Sun Protection & Wrinkles – We all love to get out on a sunny day and get a bit of a tan every now and then. There’s nothing wrong with soaking up a few rays, but like most things in life, too much of a good thing can backfire. When you head out for a day in the sun, take some simple steps to protect your skin from overexposure. Applying some sunscreen is always an easy way to provide your skin with some defense from the damaging UV rays and resulting wrinkles down the track. In intense UV conditions, it may be worth wearing a hat or other clothing barrier to give a greater level of protection. If you are outside working or playing in the sun, try limiting your time in direct sunlight by opting for shaded areas where possible. Sun overexposure and the impact it has on the skin could perhaps be the largest factor on the early formation of wrinkles and other more serious skin damage.

Stress & Wrinkles – Medicine and society in general are becoming more aware of the effects of stress on our overall well being. While there is not a lot of specific data around the issue of stress and how it directly impacts wrinkles, it is generally accepted that reducing stress is a good strategy in allowing your body to maintain better physical condition.

Smoking & Wrinkles – It goes without saying that smoking is a major health risk for anyone tied to the habit or those exposed to second hand smoke. We have all seen smokers that seem to look years older than they actually are. Quitting the habit of smoking or limiting your exposure to second hand smoke is no doubt an intelligent step in fighting the signs of ageing.

Alcohol & Wrinkles – Many of us love to have a relaxing cocktail, glass of wine or beer occasionally and drinking in moderation is an accepted practice. The problem arises when the consumption of alcohol reaches a level that it hampers the body’s ability to cope with the toxins in the alcohol. Aside from all the obvious health concerns around over-indulging in alcohol, keeping your drinking to a level that does not stress your body will give it the best opportunity to keep its vital organs, like the skin, in optimal condition. If you are going to drink alcohol, try following that with plenty of water to re-hydrate your body and help your liver flush the toxins from you system.

Diet & Wrinkles – Like the gas in your car or the software on your computer, the quality of the food you put in you mouth has a huge impact on the body as a whole. We’ve all heard it a million times, but food provides the building blocks for the human body and you really are what you eat. Eating a comprehensive diet that is not high in sugars, saturated fats, preservatives, artificial additives and all the other nasties, will give your body the best chance to repair damage to the skin and perhaps delay the onset of wrinkles. There is too much detailed dietary information to fit into this article, but consulting your doctor and a nutritionist is a good way to choose the diet that is best for you. There is also a plethora of information available in the internet at the click of a mouse, but put your common sense glasses on when you are researching any online materials, as a lot of  the information out there is just designed to relieve you of your hard earned dollars.

Foods that are natural and that contain a complete range of nutrients, healthy fats and essential oils are the key to giving your skin all that is needs to stay as tight and supple as it can be. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, proteins and plenty of moisture in your food are a great way to fight off wrinkles.

Moisturizing creams & Wrinkles – Ok, I know most guys will cringe at the thought of going into a store and buying some facial moisturizer. Just get over all that silly macho nonsense and go buy some light facial moisturizing cream that does not cost a small fortune. I am not talking about these crazy, over packaged, $100 per ounce products. Just find a good basic cream with a light, non oily composition that will help to lock in some moisture during the day. Giving your skin a little help in the moisture department will immediately make it appear more vibrant and rejuvenated.

There is no way to turn back the hands of time or stop the inevitable aging of the human body. Wrinkles are part and parcel of our life experience and the sooner we come to terms with ageing the less superficial society will be. The point is, we can take some simple steps to age gracefully and provide our bodies with the best chance to look as good as they can while we age. Wrinkles are nothing to be afraid of or shocked by. Wrinkles should be worn as proud badges of life experience when they come, but we can do a lot to make those badges appear a little later.

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