You may not be able to remove the wrinkles on your face completely but you can definitely diminish its appearance or even delay its onset. One of the fastest ways to remove wrinkles is to undergo cosmetic surgery. However, this alternative is not for everyone unless you have deep pockets and are not terrified of pain. To get ready for cosmetic surgery, one has to do research on the procedure, look for a highly regarded and reliable plastic surgeon, go through detailed consultation and take time off from work for recovery.

There is no doubt cosmetic surgery is a instant way to get your facial wrinkles smoothened but there are actually other ways to diminish the appearance of wrinkles on your face. These methods do not require a huge monetary investment, there is also no down time involved. All it takes is a little adjustment in your lifestyle and habits. Here are 5 small changes you can do to avoid or reduce wrinkles naturally.

1. Avoid the sun

You’ve probably heard this many times but I can’t underline enough the significance of avoiding the sun to diminish wrinkles on your face. The sun emits Ultraviolet (UV) rays which cause an increase in a skin enzyme, metalloproteinase. This skin enzyme breaks down collagen and results in wrinkling of the skin. You should avoid unnecessary sun exposure between 10am to 4pm when sunlight is most intense. If you have to be in the outdoors, try to walk or stay in the shade whenever possible.

2. Use sunscreen

Using sunscreen is one of the best ways to prevent or reduce wrinkles. You should use a sunscreen frequently, even while you’re indoors as UVA rays can penetrate glass. If you sit next to the window in office, be sure to put on sunscreen if you want to prevent premature aging. And don’t be fooled by cloudy days. UV light can penetrate cloud cover, make sure you apply sunscreen even when the sunlight doesn’t seem as intense.

3. Wear tightly-woven fabrics

Do not neglect the skin on your body just because you have sunscreen on you face. Wearing tightly woven, dark colored clothes will give you enhanced protection against the sun than loose-weaved, light colored clothes. If you’re going sleeveless, bear in mind to put sunscreen on your arms and back of hands. Apply sunscreen on your neck too if you want to lessen ugly wrinkles on your neck. Wearing a broad brimmed hat or cap provides further sun protection for your face.

4. Avoid smoking

Do consider quitting smoking if you are a smoker. Premature aging and skin wrinkling has been observed in smokers, in particular female smokers. Smoking produces free radicals and induces proteins that breakdown collagen and elastin. Smoking also results in moisture loss and a decrease in the level of vitamin A on our skin. Quitting smoking is another vital step towards reducing wrinkles.

5. Sleep on your back

You may find this hard to believe but experts have cautioned that sleeping in some positions every night for years will ultimately lead to wrinkles. Sleep lines – the wrinkles caused by sleeping with your face on the pillow, will ultimately become permanent. People who sleep on their sides will see those wrinkles appearing on their chin and cheeks. Those who sleep face down on the pillow generally end up with forehead wrinkles or furrowed brow. To reduce wrinkles, the most excellent way is to sleep on your back. Sleeping position might not be easy to change over night but with a little determination, you’ll be able to get used to a new sleeping position after a few weeks.