Skincare experts share common mistake you need to stop to zap 'deep wrinkles'

While ageing is a natural part of life, many of us are eager to banish blemishes, fine lines, and puffiness - but we often fall into the same trap. As shoppers seek out specific skincare ingredients, they overlook three crucial factors that can lead to "deep wrinkles", rendering their skincare routines ineffective.

According to Harvard Health, crow's feet are a common issue. These are the fine lines that emerge around the outer corners of the eyes, and since the skin around the eyes is delicate, it's often one of the first areas to display signs of ageing.

What mistakes can give me wrinkles?

Before diving into skincare, it's vital to be aware of the three mistakes that could be causing crow's feet to appear and develop "deep wrinkles". The experts highlight that neglecting to wear sunscreen or sunglasses can lead to more lines on your face.

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They also note that wearing a hat may help as it "reduces squinting, which helps prevent crow's feet." In addition to this, stress is another factor. Whilst this is part of normal life, it's the facial expressions you do that make it worse.

"Emotions like anger, sadness, and anxiety lead to facial expressions that contribute to crow's feet. Learning to manage stress can reduce these fine lines and wrinkles."

In their third and final warning about common mistakes, they note that smoking should be stopped. Not only is it bad for your health, but the bad habit "accelerates the development of crow's feet by reducing blood flow to the skin and breaking down collagen and elastin."

How can I prevent wrinkles?

Harvard Health Publishing's Skin Care and Repair Special Health Report delved into "scientifically approved treatments for common skin conditions from acne to rosacea, as well as the newest products and procedures for lines, wrinkles, age spots and other cosmetic issues".

There are specific steps the experts recommend. These include:

1. Cleanse gently

2. Moisturise regularly

3. Use sunscreen every day

4. Add antioxidants

5. Exfoliate gently

Adhering to this skincare system is suggested by Harvard. They say that if you follow these steps, you need to use a soft cleanser while steering clear of abrasive soaps, which can sap moisture from your face. You should also apply a moisturiser containing "hyaluronic acid or glycerin".

Your sunscreen should boast an SPF factor of at least 30. Apply this every morning, even on overcast days and throughout winter. When on the hunt for skin-care products, be on the lookout for vitamin C.

This powerhouse ingredient can "brighten the skin, evens out skin tone and reduces the appearance of dark spots by inhibiting excess pigment production."

In their fifth suggestion, experts advise looking before you apply. They say that you need to read the instructions carefully as too much or too often can make your skin red, raw and irritated.

NHS issues skin warning

Backed up by the NHS, the health experts further emphasise the need for SPF. They note that from March to October in the UK, the sun is at its strongest between 11am and 3pm. Because of this you need to make sure you:

• spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm

• never burn

• cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses

• take extra care with children

• use at least factor 30 sunscreen

"If you're worried you might not be applying enough SPF30, you could use a sunscreen with a higher SPF", they warn adding: "If you plan to be out in the sun long enough to risk burning, sunscreen needs to be applied twice". This includes 30 minutes before going out as well as just before going out.