Is your skin wrinkling faster than expected? Why is your skin losing its youthful glow even though you haven't entered your mature years yet? In addition to genetics and natural aging, there are many other factors that can contribute to premature skin aging.
The skin is not only the largest organ of our body, but also an external one shield against environmental influences. Despite its exceptional resistance, the skin is constantly exposed to factors that can accelerate its aging process. Although aging is an inevitable part of life, signs such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity can appear earlier than you would like.
Sometimes the morning look in the mirror seems to suddenly change when we notice the first signs of aging. But that doesn't necessarily mean that age is the only culprit. Premature skin aging is often the result of many factors that we may not take into account enough.
Top five reasons why your skin may be aging faster than you'd like. Hidden causes of premature skin aging!
Lack of protective creams
One of the most common misconceptions is that sunscreen is only necessary in the summer when the sun is strong. The truth is that UV rays are present all year round, even in winter and in cloudy weather. UV radiation causes damage to the skin, leading to wrinkles and age spots.
Smoking is bad for you. Photo: Eman Genatilan / PexelsA sunscreen with the right factor is key to protecting your skin from these harmful effects. Daily use of a protective cream is one of the best preventive measures against premature aging of the skin.
Excessive consumption of sugar
Sugar is not only the enemy of a slim line, but also of your skin. Excessive consumption of sugar and refined carbohydrates causes inflammation in the body, which negatively affects the skin.
A process called glycation, in which sugar binds to proteins in the skin such as collagen and elastin, causes the skin to lose elasticity. This leads to the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin. Reducing your sugar intake and switching to a healthier diet can significantly improve the appearance and health of your skin.
Influences of the urban environment
Living in the city brings many challenges for the skin. Air pollution such as exhaust gases and industrial emissions contain particles that can damage the skin. These substances cause oxidative stress, which leads to skin aging, including wrinkles and age spots.
Too little sleep is also not ok. Photo: Pexels-PixabayAntioxidants found in foods such as berries, nuts and green leafy vegetables can help protect the skin from these harmful effects. It is also recommended to use skin care products that contain antioxidants to reduce the impact of pollution on the skin.
Lack of sleep
Quality sleep is crucial for skin regeneration. During sleep, the skin regenerates, but if we don't get enough sleep, this process slows down.
Lack of sleep increases levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can break down collagen in the skin. This leads to thinning of the skin and the formation of wrinkles. That's why it's important to get enough quality sleep to maintain healthy and youthful skin.
Smoking
Smoking greatly contributes to skin aging. The toxins in cigarettes reduce blood flow to the skin, which means that the skin receives less nutrients and oxygen.
This causes the skin to look greyish and tender, and the repetitive motions of smoking cause wrinkles around the mouth. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective actions you can take to get better of health and the appearance of your skin.
