What causes skin to age and wrinkle the most: age, sun-exposure, or a decrease in anti-oxidants? The answer, according to Barbara Gilchrest, chair of dermatology at the Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, is sun exposure.

In a special feature article published in Nutrition Action, Dr. Gilchrist and other researchers examine the myths associated with skin aging and prevention of wrinkles. UVA and UVB radiation changes the molecular structure of skin causing damaging free radicals, which anti-oxidants are designed to mop-up. However, there is no evidence that taking anti-oxidants go to work specifically to repair skin damage.

Although there is a certain amount of skin change associated with aging, the difference in skin aging due to sun exposure can be seen by comparing the skin on your own body. Those areas that were exposed more often to the sun such as the face, arms and hands will likely show more wrinkles than the backside of your body.

What should you do to prevent sun damaged skin? Use sunscreen in adequate amounts. Just how much is considered adequate? According to Nutrition Action, experts recommend “at least 1/2 teaspoon each to your head, neck and each arm, and at least a teaspoon each to your chest, back and each leg.”

If you’re anything like our family, one medium sized tube can last us several seasons – clearly we’re not using enough.