The Link Between Your Lifestyle Choices and Skin Aging

Senior age women and young women close up picture

Growing older is a natural part of life, but some people seem to age better than others. In part, this may be attributable to their lifestyle choices as well as their skin care routines. Many lifestyle choices have a direct effect on how well—or poorly—one’s skin ages. Fortunately, the same lifestyle choices that promote overall physical wellness are also beneficial for the skin.

Sun Exposure

Unprotected sun exposure is among the biggest accelerants of premature skin aging. Regardless of what your skin type is, you’re at a higher risk of developing premature wrinkles and age spots if you have a habit of going outdoors without applying sunscreen. Sunscreen use is important year-round, regardless of whether it’s sunny or cloudy, hot, or cold. Choose sunscreen labeled for broad-spectrum protection, which guards against both UVA and UVB rays. Dermatologists usually recommend sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. In addition to reapplying sunscreen every two hours, you can protect your skin from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat while outdoors.

Tobacco

Another common culprit of premature skin aging is smoking. The longer you smoke and the more cigarettes per day that you smoke, the more likely you are to notice fine lines and wrinkles at a young age. This is because nicotine constricts blood vessels, which inhibits blood flow to all parts of your body, including your skin. When the skin doesn’t get as much blood as normal, it becomes deprived of oxygen and critical nutrients. Additionally, some of the chemicals in cigarettes damage collagen and elastin. All of these problems contribute to premature skin sagging and wrinkling. Skin wrinkling is further exacerbated by the repeated motions of smoking, including pursing the lips and squinting the eyes.

Sleep

Sleep is more important for your skin health than you might think. While you’re asleep, your body repairs the damage inflicted during the daytime hours. Getting seven to eight hours of sleep each night helps to stave off premature wrinkle formation.

A dermatologist at Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology is available to discuss your skin issues and recommend an appropriate anti-aging plan. Our dermatology specialists in Salt Lake City offer a full range of cosmetic services to help you look your best. Call us at 801-266-8841 today or visit us on the Web for further information.