It doesn't hurt to be reminded in a straightforward manner where wrinkles come from. After all, one can easily get caught up in the lively language of quashing and destroying (free radicals) and skin-under-a-microscope references (DNA), to the tune of actually forgetting how a wrinkle originates. So it was hepful to receive the latest communiqué from L'Oréal Paris, the umbrella company for a range of skincare lines targeted to different ages, featuring an interview with Dr. Lydia Evans, consulting dermatologist for the company.

So how do wrinkles form? Here is Dr. Evans's answer:

"There is still some question about how a wrinkle develops, but it appears to be a combination of a weakened collagen/elastin structure and repeated pull from the underlying muscles. The muscles in our face are working all the time, from the simple acts of blinking and swallowing, to the everyday activities of eating and talking, and of course endless facial expressions that rapidly display our thoughts and feelings. Our facial muscles even move when we sleep, especially when we dream. As we age, our skin becomes thinner, and combined with a decrease in collagen and elastin fibers, it cannot 'bounce back' as easily from the pull exerted by the muscles. Eventually a wrinkle appears and slowly deepens.”

As for when you should start to use an anti-aging cream—as opposed to a moisturizer, which should begin early on—she says that while some women in their 30s may want to combat visible signs of aging with an anti-aging treatment, for most women, the time to start is in your early 40s.

For information about L'Oréal Paris skin care (e.g., Skin Genesis or Advanced Revitalift) and their key ingredients to promote healthy-looking skin, go to www.lorealparis.ca. And for more on maintaining beautiful skin, read the following:

• Help your skin from the inside out
• Refreshing summer skin care