We all would like to remain as young and beautiful as possible, right? Although there are some inevitable signs of aging, there are habits we often overlook that accelerate the aging process. These little habits, from everyday routines to common lifestyle factors, add up — and then wrinkles, sagging skin & that tired look start to creep in. These are 11 habits that instantly age you — and how to fix them.
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Skipping Sunscreen
Everyone knows it — sunscreen is the number one thing you can do to protect against aging skin. By not using it, your skin becomes vulnerable to harmful UV rays that accelerate wrinkles, dark spots, and fine lines. Even when the skies are cloudy or you are inside – those rays can penetrate and cause damage. In time, your skin will start to look dull and old – the color uneven and sagging.
Poor Sleep Hygiene
Sleep is more than rest — your skin and body need the time to recover. If you do not sleep well enough, you will begin to see the effects on your face. Dark circles, crow’s feet, & sagging skin will stand out. In the long run, sleep deprivation makes you look tired and old. If you get 7-9 hours of sleep every night, the difference will make all the difference on how young you look and feel.
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Unhealthy Diet
Everything you put in your body has an effect on your skin and how you look. Processed food, sugar and bad fats are all causes of inflammation, bloating & accelerated aging. You’ll see wrinkles grow quicker, skin tone discoloration & dullness. Try to eat fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats to stay looking young.
Dehydration
You’ll also need to drink plenty of water to keep your skin looking healthy and young. If you’re dehydrated, your skin becomes dry and dull. You develop fine lines and wrinkles because your skin isn’t getting enough moisture. Drink 8 glasses of water at a minimum daily—your skin will thank you.
Stress and Poor Mental Health
Stress is brutal on your body, specifically your skin. It can also cause inflammation – making us look old, with pale skin and wrinkles. And chronic stress causes you to secrete cortisol, which degrades collagen (the key to firm, young skin). Meditation, exercises and relaxation help to manage stress and maintain a young-looking look.
Smoking
You know what they say – smoking turns you old very quickly. The chemicals that keep your skin soft are destroyed by cigarettes. Also, smoking cut off your blood flow, so your skin does not receive the nutrients it needs for a glowing skin. As time passes, you’ll start to see finer lines around the mouth and eyes, sagging skin & a raggedy old appearance.
Lack of Skincare Routine
If you’re not doing any sort of basic skincare, your skin isn’t getting the care it needs. If you do not cleanse, moisturize and treat your skin well, you will be left with dry, flaky, ageing skin. Even the simplest regimen of cleansing, moisturizing and sunscreen can do wonders for your long-term look of youth.
Overexposure to Screen Time
We’re so accustomed to being in front of phones, computers and televisions that we forget how blue light affects our skin. Overexposure degrades collagen – causing wrinkles, spots and loose skin. Limit screen time, wear blue-light glasses and apply skin-friendly antioxidants to guard against premature aging.
Poor Posture
Slouching can be easy, but it makes you look old sooner than you think. Bad posture leads to wrinkles and saggy skin around your neck, jaw and shoulders. As time goes by, that hunched appearance gets tired & old-looking. By working your core muscles and staying aware of your posture, you can keep your face looking younger and fuller.
Skipping Exercise
Exercise is essential for healthy circulation, tone of muscles & skin elasticity. Without it, your skin loses its natural glow and your body starts to age quicker. Physical activity keeps your muscles tight, boosts circulation and promotes healthier skin — making you look and feel younger longer.
Neglecting Mental Stimulation
Your brain needs as much maintenance as your body when it comes to staying youthful. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities helps maintain cognitive function, which declines with age. Reading, puzzles, learning new things or hobbies will keep your mind sharp & fit without showing the first wrinkles of adolescence.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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