8 Simple Tips to Slow Down Premature Skin Aging

Aging is the process of the body becoming older as time passes. Like all parts of the body, the skin ages too and with time, it starts showing signs in the form of wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation. When it comes to skin aging, there are some things that are beyond our control while others we can definitely do something about.

Skin aging is caused by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic aging is the natural aging that happens as the body ages and the skin starts losing its youthful radiance and fullness. This is hard or impossible to control.

Extrinsic or premature aging is caused by external factors. These include exposure to sunlight and lifestyle choices. Premature aging makes you look older than you naturally should look and can be controlled. While there are a number of expensive anti-aging clinical treatments out there, the following simple and easy steps can also make a massive difference and prevent premature aging.

1.  Wear sunscreen every time you step out

Sun exposure is the main cause for premature aging. The UV radiation of the sun disrupts the normal functioning of the skin cells. It triggers the abnormal production of the skin pigment – melanin. This causes hyperpigmentation that manifests in the form of age spots and melasma.

The UV radiations also penetrate deep into the skin and produce free radicals that cause oxidation. This reduces the production of collagen and elastin – proteins that are essential for maintaining the skin’s elasticity. The skin becomes loose and wrinkly.

Sun damage to the skin is so prevalent that ‘premature aging’ is sometimes used synonymously with ‘premature aging’. This is why sun protection is crucial and can slow down the skin’s aging process phenomenally.

If you’re stepping out in the sun, whether it’s sunny, cloudy or rainy – always wear an effective sunscreen or sunblock. Look for one with a minimum SPF of 30. While there are a number of chemical sunscreens in the market, look for physical sunscreens like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They reflect the UV rays effectively and come without side effects.

2.  Cover your skin with protective clothing

Wherever possible, protect your skin not just from the sun but also from dry winds, dust and pollution. External aggressions not only dry out the skin but also cause oxidation which leads to premature aging.

Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, gloves, scarves and sunglasses. If your work involves staying out in the sun for long periods, it might be worth it to invest in specific sun-protective clothing labelled with a UPF or ultraviolet protection factor.

3.  Moisturize your skin regularly

Our skin has a protective moisture layer that acts as a physical barrier while also keeping the skin supple and flexible. When it is compromised, the skin becomes not only dry and flaky, the physical barrier also gets broken. The skin becomes prone to inflammation and breakouts which damages the skin and causes premature aging.

Keep your skin moisturized at all times. Depending on your skin type, look for a suitable moisturizer – light, gel-based for oily skin to heavy, cream-based for dry skin and lotion-based for combination or normal skin.

Apply moisturizer every time you cleanse your skin and before going to bed. It is also a good idea to moisturize before you apply makeup.

4.  Exfoliate your skin regularly

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells to stimulate the production and regeneration of new skin cells. Exfoliation removes the dullness from the skin and makes it radiant and younger.

One excellent example of an exfoliant for premature aging skin is charcoal soap. Other exfoliants include scrubs, sponges and chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids), glycolic acid and lactic acid.

5.  Take care of your diet and hydration levels

Premature aging can be controlled not only directly with the way you treat your skin but also indirectly with what you put inside your body. Maintain a balanced diet to maintain healthy skin.

Include foods with anti-inflammatories and antioxidants that can slow down skin damage and promote skin healing. Include fruits like berries, grapes, pears, cherries, apricots, papaya, watermelon and cranberries. Also include green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, carrots, avocados, beetroots and cabbage.

At the same time, make sure you consume ample amounts of healthy fatty acids in fish, nuts and seeds. Another healthy inclusion is probiotics like yoghurt, kombucha, sauerkraut and kefir. They support the healthy bacteria on the skin which protect the skin and maintain a healthy balance of the skin microbiome.

Hydration is important too for the normal functioning of the skin cells and for keeping the skin supple and plump. Ensure that you stay hydrated throughout the day.

6.  Avoid smoking and control your alcohol consumption

Smoking is the worst news for the skin, especially when it comes to aging. It increases collagen breakdown which damages elasticity. It also constricts the blood vessels that are responsible for supplying oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells. There is visible evidence that smokers age quicker and less gracefully than non-smokers.

Another bad lifestyle choice is excessive drinking. It dehydrates the skin and expands the blood vessels leading to redness and tiny bumps common to aging skin.

7.  Get adequate sleep

Sleep is an important element of your anti-aging efforts as sleep is the time when the skin cells regenerate. Not getting enough sleep for even a single night leads to dark circles and bags under the eyes. Imagine what happens over time!

Sleep is also essential for controlling the stress levels in the body. Inadequate sleep means increased production of cortisol, the stress hormone. It leads to breakouts, inflammation and increased rate of wrinkle formation.

Sleep 7-8 hours every day. Practice yoga or meditation to help regulate your sleep if you have trouble sleeping.

8.  Exercise regularly

Exercise is healthy for your whole body, but it is particularly beneficial for the skin. Exercising increases the blood flow to the skin cells which means increased oxygen and nutrient supply. This keeps the skin cells vital and healthy and slows down the aging process.

Exercise at least thrice a week for about 40-45 minutes to promote healthy, younger looking skin.