Wrinkles are common as you age, but you are probably like most of the population and want to know how to reduce their appearance and prevent them from returning. Genetics and lifetime sun exposure are two precursors to developing wrinkles, but you can take steps to help reduce how noticeable your wrinkles are. A sauna is often used after an exercise session to revitalize and relax you, but your session in the sauna may also benefit you by reducing wrinkles and improving the overall appearance of your skin.

Wrinkles come with aging, and in many cases there is not much you can do to prevent or completely eliminate them. Your genetic makeup and how much time you spend in the sun without protection are two primary causes of wrinkles. Environmental toxins, such as cigarette smoke and nutritional deficiencies, may also contribute to the formation of wrinkles. The good news is that you can reduce the appearance of wrinkles on your skin with certain lotions, creams and dermatological procedures.

Sitting in a sauna is another way to potentially reduce the appearance of wrinkles, though the effects are temporary. Saunas work by heating the small room to a very high temperature and lowering the humidity to make the heat bearable and safe. Saunas help relax your muscles, but they can also help your skin get rid of toxins that may contribute to wrinkles. As the steam from the sauna penetrates your skin, it may help plump up wrinkles, which can diminish their appearance.

Saunas are a natural way to diminish the appearance of wrinkles, and regular use can help keep you looking younger. Take a cold shower or bath following your sauna treatment to help revitalize your skin, Earl Fee suggests in his book, "One Hundred Years Young the Natural Way: Body, Mind, and Spirit Training." Smooth a moisturizing cream over your skin immediately following your sauna session. The lotion will help seal in moisture and help reduce the appearance of fine lines. Baby oil may have a similar effect by moisturizing your skin.

Do not spend more than 10 to 12 minutes in a sauna. Prolonged exposure may actually dry out your skin. Dry skin is more likely to show wrinkles and fine lines. Drink plenty of water after your sauna session to help replace the fluids you lost through sweating. Plenty of water may also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles by keeping your body hydrated.