Wrinkles happen for a number of different reasons, including heavy smoking, drinking, and not consistently using sunscreen (even in the winter!). But, one of the most important factors, and the most overlooked, is diet. It’s so important for your skin to have a diet that provides your body with the essential nutrients your body needs. We spoke with skincare experts and dermatologist Dr. Paula Morgan, MD, PhD, FRCPC, FAAD, and Elaine F. Kung, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor at Weill-Cornell Medical College, about foods that no one should be eating because they can cause skin inflammation and will have especially negative effects on aging skin over 40. They say to avoid processed meats, fried foods, and dairy products. This is because these foods contain high levels of nitrates and sodium, which are extremely damaging to the skin. Nitrates are known to cause inflammation and wrinkles, while too much sodium can cause premature aging and dryness in the skin.