4 Reasons Your Skin is Ageing Faster Than It Should – And How to Repair the Damage

You may be wondering when it is considered ‘normal’ for fine lines and wrinkles to start making an appearance. The truth is that it depends on a variety of factors, many of which are related to your genes and your lifestyle.

Having said that, most people notice the first signs of ageing when they are still in their twenties. Here are four reasons why your skin could be ageing faster than it should – and what you can do to repair the existing damage.

Not wearing sunscreen

Did you know that 90% of the visible ageing changes on the skin are due to accumulated sun damage? We all need Vitamin D, which we normally from the sun but can be taken as a supplement. However, if you want to protect your face from premature ageing changes, you need to wear an SPF of 30-50, and re-apply it every 2 hours if you are being exposed to sunlight. Sunscreen is designed to safeguard your skin against intense UV rays. If these UV rays are allowed to penetrate the skin’s surface, they actively work to alter the DNA make-up within your cells. When this happens, wrinkles are certain to follow shortly after.

Needless to say, sunbeds are a big no-no. That would be like asking for wrinkles and sun damage.

Smoking and drinking

As mentioned above, your lifestyle has a direct and significant impact on your skin. The two habits that have the most dramatic effect, and can be responsible for premature ageing, including smoking and drinking.

Cigarette smoke is full of harmful toxins and these can lead to oxidative stress in relation to your skin. Ultimately, this can result in the development of deeper wrinkles, lines, as well as dry skin (which is known to make the signs of ageing look more prominent).

Alcohol saps your body of moisture and can play a role in dehydration. When your body does not have access to the amount of water that it needs, there is sure to be a decline in skin elasticity and resilience.

Not getting enough sleep

Sleep allows your body a chance to replenish and regenerate its cells. With this in mind, it is unsurprising to discover that there have been a few studies that have shown how a lack of sleep speeds up the rate of ageing.

Stress

Stress plays a role in reducing the amount of quality sleep that you get each night – and it also stimulates an inflammatory response within your body. All of this can encourage premature ageing.

How to take action against the early signs of ageing

First and foremost, it is important to prevent any further damage from taking place. This is possible by endeavouring to lead a healthier lifestyle. Quit smoking, drink alcohol in moderation, and focus on eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Find healthy ways to cope with stress, ensure that you slather on the sunscreen every morning before heading out the door, and strive to get at least seven to nine hours’ worth of sleep at night.

As far as repairing the already-existing damage goes, some of the best options to consider are Medical grade skin care and medical peels. These actively remove the damaged outer layers of the skin, leading to a noticeable reduction in the depth of lines and wrinkles. Your skin will benefit from improved elasticity and a youthful glow.

For more details or to book a consultation, get in touch with Dr Liesel Holler today!