Premature Ageing: Five Habits That Are Ageing You (And How to Solve Them)

Age is simply a part of life. Sooner or later, we’ll all start to see lines and wrinkles across our foreheads. Premature ageing however can impact our visible ageing far more than we realise. From smoking to running (it punishes joints and bones), the choices we make matter. Want to improve your lifestyle and make a smart swaps? It may help keep you as young as you feel!

Top causes of premature ageing

ONE: Smoking

First, the toxins in cigarette smoke destroy collagen and elastin. This means what’s needed to keep your skin firm deteriorates. The result? Think premature ageing, smokers lines, wrinkles and hard skin. Second, it’s known that smoking deprives your skin of the nutrients it needs. This is because it effects the blood vessels delivering both nutrients and oxygen to the body. Therefore your skin may look pale or uneven in colour. It’s just not getting vitality it needs. Need another good reason to quit?

TWO: Stress

The effect stress has on the body trickles down to many areas of health. Scientific reports link stress to heightened cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and heart disease. Other serious medical issues include hypertension and even erectile dysfunction. And what the deal with skin? Stress can further decrease collagen over time. Managing your stress levels is often easier said than done. Have you heard of the gut being referred to as you “second brain?” That’s because most of our happy hormone, serotonin, is produced in the gut. If stress means feelings of anxiety, most likely there isn’t enough happy hormone being produced. It’s essential you have a good working gut with nutrients like Vitamin D and Omega-3. These help with binding of serotonin from the GUT to the brain. Think about it this way: when you’re nervous or stressed, does it affect your stomach? Then great supplementation can be really helpful.

THREE: Too much sun

It may not be those hours on the beach that are sun damaging your skin, but rather incidental exposure causing the onset of premature ageing. Year-round, your skin is hit with UV just from driving or sitting next to an open window. Rule of thumb? Always slather on a broad spectrum SPF throughout the year. The right texture for men is light and non-comedogenic as to not block pores.

FOUR: Running

This may seem like an odd habit to avoid. And while we’re not discouraging you (it’s really good to exercise), running comes some risks. Unfortunately it’s known to put stress on our bodies like our joints as we get older. It’s the impact of this type of workout that’s debatable. And while it won’t age your skin directly, being sun exposed could be a problem. So, if you love your runs, layer up with a sweat resistant SPF. And, wear a cap! Avoiding too much UV is key, so if your joints are ok ensure you’re sun safe.

FIVE: Ignoring Moisturiser

Ah, hello hydration? Just as your skin needs sunscreen every day, so too does it need a moisturiser. And the right one for your skin’s condition. Men’s skin is typically oilier and shinier thanks to double the amount of pores than women. It also has a lower pH and is less dry. However, water loss may cause dry, flaky skin. It’s vital you invest in the right type of daily hydrator for you. You best mate’s moisturiser won’t be yours, so consult an aesthetic practitioner. They’ll guide you as to what will strengthen your skin properly so it looks on top form!

Feeling ready to show aging the door? Those habits you’re holding onto needn’t hold you back. With some life changes you can impact your skin’s condition and overall health. Here’s to you!