Wrinkles are a natural part of aging, but there are plenty of ways to prevent and reduce them. While genetics and sun exposure play a role, adopting good habits can go a long way in keeping your skin smooth, youthful, and wrinkle-free.

Here are 30 habits to help you keep wrinkles at bay:.

1. Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Excessive sun exposure can cause premature aging of the skin and contribute to the formation of wrinkles. To avoid damage to your skin, make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 whenever you’re outside.

Wear protective clothing like hats and long-sleeved shirts and try to avoid sun exposure during peak hours of the day.

2. Hydrate Your Skin

Keeping your skin hydrated is essential to maintaining its elasticity and preventing wrinkles.

Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and use hydrating skin care products that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is crucial for repairing and regenerating your skin, so make sure to get enough of it. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and make sure to sleep on your back to avoid creases in your skin.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking can damage collagen and elastin in your skin, leading to premature aging and wrinkles. If you smoke, quitting can help prevent further damage and even reverse some of the effects of smoking on your skin.

5. Use Retinoids

Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that have been shown to boost collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Look for over-the-counter products that contain retinol or talk to your dermatologist about prescription strength options.

6. Moisturize Daily

Using a daily moisturizer can help keep your skin hydrated and prevent the formation of wrinkles. Look for products that contain ingredients like antioxidants, vitamin E, and ceramides.

7. Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet that’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can help keep your skin healthy and prevent wrinkles. Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

8. Avoid Sugar and Processed Foods

Eating too much sugar and processed foods can contribute to inflammation and premature aging of the skin. Try to limit your intake of these types of foods and focus on whole, nutrient-dense options instead.

9. Get Regular Exercise

Regular exercise can help improve circulation and reduce stress, both of which can benefit your skin. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

10. Wear Sunglasses

Squinting can cause wrinkles around your eyes, so wearing sunglasses can help prevent this. Look for glasses with UVA and UVB protection for extra skin benefits.

11. Cleanse Your Skin Gently

Cleansing your skin too harshly can strip it of its natural oils and contribute to wrinkles. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid scrubbing your skin too vigorously.

12. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate your skin, making it more prone to wrinkles. Try to limit your consumption of these substances and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

13. Don’t Overdo It with Products

Using too many skin care products can irritate your skin and contribute to wrinkles. Stick to a simple routine with a few high-quality products that suit your skin’s needs.

14. Sleep with a Humidifier

Dry air can contribute to the formation of wrinkles, so sleeping with a humidifier can help keep your skin hydrated. Look for a cool mist humidifier that won’t overheat your room.

15. Manage Stress

Stress can cause inflammation and damage to your skin, leading to wrinkles. Find ways to manage your stress, like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

16. Avoid Touching Your Face

Touching your face can transfer bacteria from your hands to your skin and cause irritation and breakouts. It can also contribute to wrinkles, so try to avoid touching your face unnecessarily.

17. Get Regular Facials

Regular facials can help improve circulation and boost collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Look for a licensed esthetician who specializes in anti-aging treatments.

18. Use Silk or Satin Pillowcases

Cotton pillowcases can cause friction and creases in your skin, leading to wrinkles. Using silk or satin pillowcases can help prevent this and keep your skin smooth.

19. Massage Your Skin

Massaging your skin can improve circulation and help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Use a facial roller or your fingers to gently massage your skin in upward motions.

20. Avoid Sleeping with Your Face against a Pillow

Pressing your face against a pillow can cause wrinkles and creases, so try to sleep on your back instead. If you can’t avoid sleeping on your side or stomach, try using a special wrinkle-reducing pillow to help prevent damage to your skin.

21. Use Silk or Satin Hair Ties

Using tight hair ties can cause damage to your hair and pull on your skin, contributing to wrinkles. Switch to silk or satin hair ties to avoid this.

22. Protect Your Eyes

Squinting can cause wrinkles around your eyes, so make sure to wear a hat or sunglasses to avoid this. You can also use eye cream to help keep the skin around your eyes hydrated and prevent wrinkles.

23. Avoid Harsh Weather

Extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions can damage your skin and contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Try to avoid spending too much time outside in very hot or cold weather.

24. Use a Gentle Eye Makeup Remover

Removing your eye makeup too harshly can irritate your skin and contribute to wrinkles. Use a gentle eye makeup remover and be sure to take your makeup off before bed.

25. Avoid Over-Washing Your Skin

Washing your skin too frequently can strip it of its natural oils and contribute to wrinkles. Try to stick to washing your face once or twice per day and avoid using hot water.

26. Use a Gentle Exfoliator

Exfoliating your skin can help remove dead skin cells and improve your skin’s texture, but using a harsh exfoliator can cause irritation and contribute to wrinkles.

Choose a gentle exfoliator that’s suited to your skin type and use it no more than once or twice per week.

27. Don’t Forget Your Neck and Chest

The skin on your neck and chest is thin and delicate, making it prone to wrinkles. Make sure to use your skin care products on these areas and keep them protected from the sun.

28. Use a Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect your skin from damage and boost collagen production. Look for a serum that contains at least 10% vitamin C and use it daily for best results.

29. Get Regular Skin Cancer Screenings

Skin cancer can cause damage to your skin and contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Make sure to get regular skin cancer screenings and talk to your dermatologist if you notice any changes in your skin.

30. Use a Humidifier

Dry indoor air can contribute to the formation of wrinkles, so using a humidifier can help keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Look for a humidifier that’s easy to clean and safe to use.