6 Causes of Premature Skin Aging and What You Can Do About It
Aging is unavoidable. As you get older, your appearance naturally ages. One of the most noticeable changes that come with age happens on your skin. However, some people may experience skin transformations earlier than others. Premature skin aging occurs when the common effects of growing older happen faster than expected.
Your skin can appear older than your real age. How can you tell if you have premature skin aging? This article tells some of the most common signs that your skin is aging faster than it should, its causes, and what you can do about it.
4 Common Signs of Premature Skin Aging
1. Sun Spots
Sun spots, also known as age spots and liver spots, are hyper-pigmented spots that are seen on the face, back of the hands, or forearms caused by long years of exposure to the sun. They are likely to appear at or after you turn 40. People with fairer skin may develop sun spots earlier.
2. Wrinkles or Sagging
Your skin slows down in producing collagen as you enter your 30s. Collagen is the protein essential in giving contour to your skin and keeping your skin plump. It is easier to have visible wrinkles and sagging when there is less collagen in the skin.
Skin MD can help you smooth out your skin problems caused by wrinkles. Start your journey by having a consultation appointment. The board-certified dermatologists will examine your skin thoroughly and understand your challenges so they can create a personalized plan that takes into account your beauty goals and the nuances of your skin.
3. Gaunt Hands
As you grow older, the top layers of your skin become thinner. They lack proteins such as collagen that give shape to your skin. As a result, your hands start to look more veiny, thin, and susceptible to wrinkles.
4. Dry or Itchy Skin
There is premature skin aging when you have dry or itchy skin (xerosis cutis). Thinning skin is more prone to dehydration. Your skin becomes drier and more likely to have flaking as you approach your 40s.
There are several causes of premature skin aging. The following factors can contribute to how fast the common signs will be visible on your skin as you age.
6 Factors that Cause Premature Skin Aging
1. Sun Exposure
Too much exposure to sunlight causes many skin problems. Ultraviolet (UV) rays penetrate the skin which damages the skin cells, contributing to premature changes like age spots and wrinkles.
2. Smoking
The toxins in nicotine change the cells in your body. These toxins have harmful effects as they break down collagen and elastic fibers in your skin which leads to wrinkles, sagging, and a hollow, thin face.
3. Alcohol Intake
Drinking alcohol excessively can dehydrate. This damages your skin over time, causing your skin to sag and lose its shape.
4. Stress
One of the causes of premature skin aging is stress. When you are under a lot of stress, your brain pumps out a stress hormone called cortisol. This hormone blocks two substances: hyaluronan synthase and collagen which keep the skin vibrant and plump.
5. Poor Sleep
Lack of good quality sleep can make your cells age faster. Sleep provides your body a chance to refresh and regenerate cells. Poor sleep is related to increased signs of aging and reduced skin barrier function.
6. Environment
Premature skin aging signs such as pigment spots and wrinkles can be worsened by environmental pollutants. Since your skin is in direct contact with the air, your skin barrier is exposed to the toxins and pollutants found in the environment.
You can prevent premature skin aging from getting worse by taking necessary actions. Here are 8 things that you can do to take care of your skin.
8 Ways to Lessen Premature Skin Aging
1. Avoid Sun Exposure
Limit the time you spend under the sun, especially during the day when the sun is hottest. Always remember to wear sunscreen every day when going outdoors. Always choose UV protection that is at least SPF 30 or higher. Long sleeve clothing, a hat with a brim, and sunglasses also protect against the heat of the sun. Make sure to apply sunscreen on your face and the rest of your body. Remember to reapply sunscreen frequently.
2. Quit Smoking
If you smoke, stop smoking as soon as possible. Smoking can accelerate premature skin aging. It damages the blood vessels that carry oxygen to the skin. Your skin is more susceptible to sagging and wrinkling without enough oxygen.
3. Drink Less Alcohol
Avoid drinking alcohol excessively. Be mindful of your intake since alcohol can dehydrate your skin and affect skin oils.
4. Practice Stress Management
Eliminate as much stress as you can. Find a stress relief technique like yoga and meditation that works best for you and make it a habit.
5. Improve Your Sleep Pattern
Sleep is important to your body. You are not getting quality sleep if this is regularly interrupted. The quality and quantity of your sleep are important. At least seven hours of sleep is recommended for adults.
6. Take Care of Your Skin
To avoid premature skin aging, remove makeup, dirt, sweat, or other substances that can cause skin irritation before going to bed. Wash your face twice daily with mild cleanser and warm water. Do not use harsh skin products that contain fragrances or high pH. Find a moisturizer that works for you and apply it daily to prevent itchiness and dryness.
7. Stay Hydrated
Drink more water to maintain the hydration of your entire body and your skin. Dehydration can make wrinkles show up faster. Drink eight glasses of water each day to hydrate your body.
8. Consult a Dermatologist for Your Skin Problems
Dermatologists can diagnose and treat skin conditions. They can recognize if the symptoms that appear on your skin indicate another health condition.
Skin MD is a team of board-certified dermatologists dedicated to taking care of your skin and keeping it youthful always. Its dermatologists personally attend to every patient’s particular needs, taking delicate care in every consultation, treatment, and evaluation. To ensure that your skin will get the proper care it needs, the skin specialists constantly update and enhance their skills through studies, training, and workshops both locally and abroad to stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and evidenced-based dermatology.
ALSO READ: 5 Common Skin Pigmentation Problems In Asians
Premature skin aging happens when the skin looks older than your actual age. There are several signs on the skin indicating that growing older is more quickly occurring than expected. Some factors cause the skin to age prematurely such as sun exposure, smoking, alcohol, stress, poor sleep, and pollutants in the environment. By following the listed recommendations, you can avoid premature skin aging from getting worse and keep your skin healthy and radiant.
Let our skin specialists at Skin MD make you look and feel young. Achieve a younger look through a series of personalized dermatology services through Skin MD Total Anti-Aging Package. It includes botox injection, lip fillers, and dark circle treatment. These skin treatmentstargets and treat all signs of aging on your face to restore your youthful glow and radiant skin.