What are the 4 main factors that lead to premature aging and how to deal with them!
The structure and function of the skin change over the years. More specifically, it is estimated that each year our skin loses 1% of its biological strength. As a result, the skin’s metabolism slows down, bringing about multiple changes, leading to multiple visible changes over time. Thus, the aging process is genetically programmed and -consequently- irreversible. Yet, what are the main factors that lead to the so-called premature aging?
Factors that contribute to premature aging of the skin
Solar radiation: Sun is the main culprit of skin aging (photoaging). Daily exposure to solar radiation, without proper protection, reduces the skin’s resistance, causing various skin lesions (e.g., discoloration, hyperkeratosis, etc.), that act cumulatively over the years.
Smoking: According to dermatologists, smoking is the second most important reason for skin’s premature aging. Harmful substances contained in cigarette smoke are responsible for the creation of free radicals and severely damage collagen and elastin. In addition, smoking prevents proper oxygenation of the cells, resulting in dull and pale skin with a rough texture that facilitates the appearance of fine lines.
Stress: Numerous studies link stress to the acceleration of the aging process, making the human body more vulnerable to a variety of health issues. While productive or manageable stress can lead to alertness and sharpening of cognitive functions, excessive or long-term stress strains the human body, accelerating the aging of both the immune system and the skin.
Poor sleep: The correlation between good quality sleep and healthy skin is undeniable. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each day to ensure proper regeneration of skin cells, which mainly takes place at night. Disrupting this sleep routine can lead to visible effects on the skin (appearance of under-eye dark circles, changes in skin texture, dry skin along with appearance of fine lines and wrinkles).
Act preemptively
Many people wonder if there is an effective way to prevent premature aging. The answer is yes! Since premature aging is mainly caused by the adoption of harmful habits, then -if we take proper care of ourselves and our skin- it can also be avoided.
First thing daily: sun protection all year round. As we mentioned, solar radiation is the first and most important cause of premature aging, so sunscreen should never be skipped! For sure, moisturization should also remain a key goal in the daily skincare routine, and therefore, face cream, eye cream as well as night cream must be used properly and meticulously.
For even better results, you may apply the following homemade “anti-aging” mask once a week. You will need:
Peel the banana and mash it by using a blender or a fork. Put the mashed banana along with the rest of the ingredients into a bowl and mix well until the mixture becomes uniform. Take a sufficient amount of the mixture and apply it on your face. Leave on for 20′, before rinsing off with lukewarm water. Honey attracts, absorbs and retains water in its molecules; thus, it will provide your skin with the necessary moisture. Bananas are rich in vitamins, proteins, minerals, trace elements, etc., nourishing your epidermis. Cocoa, rich in flavonoids, will strengthen your skin’s resistance to UV radiation, while improving microcirculation, supporting cell nutrition and oxygenation. Finally, the 3 oils will hydrate, rejuvenate, nourish and strengthen your skin thanks to their antioxidant elements.
Add sufficient hours of sleep to your daily schedule, refraining also from bad habits (e.g., smoking, staying up late, drinking alcohol, following a poor diet) and be sure that you will have done everything in your power to prevent premature skin aging!