4 Ways You're Unintentionally Aging Your Skin
Let’s face it, everyone wants to look their best, but sometimes our daily lives work against our skincare efforts. Keeping your skin looking gorgeous goes beyond buying the right products. We have to consider how everyday factors in our lives may be speeding up the aging process. Aging is inevitable, but looking old doesn’t have to be. The following are common habits and environmental factors that may be negatively affecting your skin without you realizing it.
1. Sun Exposure: The Leading Cause of Skin Aging
Because we’re located in Florida, sun damage is one of the leading issues we treat in our office. UV radiation from the sun is the most significant factor in premature skin aging, also known as photoaging. The more time you spend in the sun, the more damage is caused to your skin's natural collagen and elastin, which keep your skin firm and smooth. Over time, this damage leads to wrinkles, sagging, and the development of sunspots. Even if you don’t spend hours sunbathing, you’re being exposed to the sun in small doses all day long—like walking to your car or sitting by a window. All of this exposure can contribute to skin aging.
Daily sunscreen is your best defense. Click here to read an article highlighting our best recommendations for sun protection. Consistent use of sunscreen can help prevent fine lines, discoloration, and skin cancer.
2. Screens: Blue Light Damage
These days, our lives revolve around screens. Our phones, computers, and televisions shone on our faces all day long. And while your screens don’t emit UV rays, they do emit blue light, which has been shown to contribute to skin aging. Blue light penetrates deeply into the skin, causing damage that can lead to fine lines and discoloration.
Some skincare products now include blue light protection, but the best way to protect yourself is to limit your exposure to screens. It turns out that a little bit less screen time is better for your skin and your mind!
3. Dehydration: The Skin's Worst Enemy
Chronically dehydrated skin can have a lasting effect on your appearance. Skin that lacks moisture loses its elasticity, making fine lines and wrinkles more pronounced. Hydrated skin, however, looks smooth, supple, and youthful.
The easiest and least expensive way to hydrate your skin (and the rest of your body) is to drink plenty of water. In addition to healthy hydration habits, we recommend investing in quality skincare products and treatments to help lock in your skin’s moisture and keep you looking fresh.
4. Diet: You Are What You Eat
What you eat has a direct impact on the appearance of your skin. Diets high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to inflammation, which accelerates aging by breaking down collagen and elastin. Over time, this can result in sagging skin, wrinkles, and a dull complexion.
On the flip side, a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats can help protect your skin from stress and boost collagen production. Foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fatty fish are excellent choices for keeping your skin looking youthful.
While there are lifestyle changes we can all make to protect our skin, eventually, you have to invest in professional skin care services to fight the effects of aging. At ILLUME, we specialize in treatments that meet each client's specific needs. We’ll work with you to create a plan that targets your concerns and makes you feel beautiful. Contact us today to book a free consultation.