10 Skin Stressors That Can Accelerate Aging 

Let’s face it. There are many different environmental and behavior stressors that can impact your body and skin health that can damage the skin, decrease elasticity, and cause wrinkles and fine lines. The good news is that many of them can be managed through a healthy diet, exercise, sleep, sun protection, and water!  Below are 10 common stressors that can prematurely age the skin. 

1. Alcohol Consumption – When alcohol is consumed in excess, it can dehydrate the skin and cause premature aging. Do you ever notice facial redness after a few drinks? Alcohol dilates the blood vessels which leads to redness and inflammation. 
   

2. Dehydration – This one is a culprit for many who suffer from dull, dry skin and fine lines and wrinkles. Drink more water consistently and you may start to see a change in the appearance of your skin for the better! 
   

3. Lack of Exercise – A sedentary lifestyle with little exercise can impact blood flow and lead to premature aging. There are many ways to get moving that count as exercise including cleaning, yardwork, gardening, and playing with your kids. Walking is also a great form of exercise and has many health benefits.  
   

4. Lack of Sleep – A lack of sleep can impact your skin’s ability to repair and rejuvenate which can lead to dark circles, dull skin, and premature fine lines and wrinkles.  
   

5. Pollution – Environmental pollutants are difficult to avoid. Air and environmental pollution exposure to the skin can lead to free radicals that cause skin inflammation and premature aging.  
   

6. Poor Diet – Yes, foods do affect our body and our skin. Some of the favorites like processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats, are the ones that can lead to inflammation and cause premature aging. Of course, the foods that may shield the skin from damage include fruits, vegetables and antioxidants.  
   

7. Poor Skincare Habits – Harsh skincare products, lack of sunscreen and moisturizing the skin can compromise its health which may lead to dryness, inflammation, premature aging, or even skin cancer. 
   

8. UV Radiation – That beautiful, yellow sun in the sky can be so hard on the skin!  The sun gives off ultraviolet (UV) radiation and is a primary factor for premature aging and even skin cancer. UV rays break down the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin which cause wrinkles, sagging skin, age spots, and even skin cancer. The answer is sunscreen (SPF 30+), sun protection (hats/shade), and skin checks!  
   

9. Smoking – Smoking releases harmful chemicals that constrict blood vessels and decrease blood flow to the skin. It leads to a reduced amount of oxygen and nutrient supply to skin cells and may cause premature aging, wrinkles, and a dull complexion. 
   

10. Stress – Stress, especially chronic stress, can really wreak havoc on the body. Chronic stress can disrupt hormones and increase cortisol, a stress hormone. Elevated cortisol levels can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Try to find ways to de-stress such meditation, walking, yoga, journaling, gardening.  
    

Minimize exposure to these stressors and adopt healthy lifestyle habits, to help protect your skin and maintain a youthful appearance for longer. Strive to wear sunscreen regularly, eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, try to manage stress levels, get enough sleep, avoid smoking, limit alcohol consumption, drink H20, and be active!