Ways To Prevent Premature Skin Aging

Aging is a natural process, and no one can stop it. However, some daily lifestyle habits can prevent the occurrence of signs of premature aging on the skin. Read on to know more:

• Wear sunscreen

Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day is the best way to help prevent premature aging caused by the sun’s harmful rays. The sunscreen you choose should have an SPF of 30 or higher to protect against ultraviolet B and ultraviolet A rays. If your skin is sensitive to sunscreen, look for a chemical-free option that blocks UV rays. Using a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays can slow the aging process and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Most sunscreens on the market today are broad spectrum.

• Avoid tanning beds

Tanning beds are dangerous for your skin. They can cause premature aging, skin damage, and cancer. It’s best to avoid tanning beds entirely. 

• Use antioxidants

Antioxidants are substances that fight free radicals and help prevent premature skin aging. Free radicals are naturally-occurring molecules that can damage cells and DNA. This damage can cause premature skin aging, including wrinkles and fine lines.

• Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to protect your skin. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Reduce the intake of fatty foods and processed foods. Sugary foods and beverages can cause your skin to age prematurely.

• Stop smoking

Cigarette smoking is bad for anyone, but smoking is especially bad for skin. Smokers are more likely to have wrinkles than non-smokers. Smokers have thinner and more delicate skin, and their skin is more susceptible to wrinkles.Smoking causes collagen breakdown. Collagen is the body’s major structural protein that maintains skin elasticity. Smoking also causes free radical damage. Free radical damage causes skin cell damage and premature skin aging. Smoking also causes blood vessels to constrict. When blood vessels constrict, they don’t bring enough blood to the face. The skin looks pale, dry, and thin.

• Drink less alcohol

When you drink alcohol, your body stops producing collagen. Collagen is what keeps your skin firm and elastic. Alcohol also dehydrates your body, and this can make you look older. If you must drink, stick to red wine. It’s rich in antioxidants and other compounds that help keep your skin healthy.

• Exercise most days of the week

Exercise increases circulation and blood flow. Increased blood flow means increased collagen production. Collagen production leads to younger-looking skin. Exercise also releases endorphins that reduce stress and fight aging. 

• Cleanse your skin gently

Using harsh products on your skin can cause more harm. Harsh cleansers may strip your skin of its natural moisture, causing your skin to overproduce oil to replenish itself. This can cause acne, redness, and unbalanced oil production.

• Apply a facial moisturizer every day

A facial moisturizer is designed to replenish the moisture in your skin. Dry skin is a hallmark of aging skin, so using a facial moisturizer daily will help prevent premature aging. It’s also essential to use a facial moisturizer after cleansing your face, as washing your face can strip away the natural oils from your skin.

To learn about the healthcare services we offer at MediPro Pain & Performance, Beaverton, OR, call (503) 828-9265 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 17933 NW Evergreen Place, Ste 285, Beaverton, OR 97006.