5 Tips to Stop Premature Aging

This post has been contributed by Emma Lawson
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Skin changes as we grow older and it is a natural process of course, but most of what we consider natural aging is due to numerous other factors. Premature signs of aging can be avoided if we know what causes them and limit the exposure to these unfavourable factors. We cannot go back in time, but we can immediately slow down the process if we start taking better care of our skin. Here is what you should do. 

1.Stop sunbathing

As much as 80% of skin aging is due to the so called photo aging, that is to say, due to excessive and chronic exposure to UV radiation. Any intentional sunbathing means more wrinkles and brown spots. With the sunbathing season at its peak, you should learn how to protect your skin from the damaging sun rays. Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect the delicate skin on your face and cover up the rest of your body with clothes. If you are heading for the beach, apply a broad-spectrum SPF moisturizer with a protection of at least 30. Seek shade and avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm.

2. Stop smoking

Have you heard of the expression ‘smoker’s face’? This refers to distinctive facial characteristics of people who smoke. Toxic chemicals in cigarettes cause the wrinkles to occur sooner and they are deeper than with non-smokers. Smokers tend to have crow’s feet and droopy skin around the eyes, and sallow complexion. The only solution to this problem is to stop smoking immediately.

3. Stop heavy drinking

Excessive alcohol is bad for your health in general, but it first shows on your skin. In addition to the short-term redness, bloating and dark circles under the eyes, alcohol undoubtedly has long-term effects on our appearance. Alcohol dehydrates our skin and causes the wrinkles and other signs of ageing to appear prematurely. Although, red wine has powerful anti-aging properties as long as you drink in moderation. One glass of wine a day is a recommended dosage for women. Anything above that would be more damaging than beneficial.

​4. Stop eating junk food
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In order to stay young, your skin needs proper nutrients, just like your entire body does. Try to eat plenty of foods that contain antioxidants, like vitamin C, E, A and B, which are particularly important for skin nutrition. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of these vitamins. Start with tomatoes, citrus, green leafy vegetables, and carrots. Lentils are also abundant in minerals that will preserve your youthful look. Make sure the food you eat is healthy and organically grown, as organic food does not contain harmful chemicals that damage the skin. Some studies also suggest that food that contains a lot of sugar can accelerate the aging process. Better find alternatives to sweets and chocolates.

5. Do not skip sleep

Beauty sleep is not just a figure of speech. You have probably noticed yourself that how you look on a certain day largely depends on how much sleep you had the night before. This is because skin repairs itself during night. You should never skip your eight hours of night sleep. 
Are you wearing sunscreen every day? How else do you protect your skin and your youthful appearance?