Causes of Premature Facial Aging and How To Combat Them

Many people feel they look older than their contemporaries and work hard to regain their youthful appearance. A number of different factors can affect premature aging of the face and neck areas, but you can take a number of steps to combat the march of time. In some cases a face lift may be your best option when preventative measures don’t give you the results you want.

Sun Damage

Exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays is one of the chief causes of premature aging in both men and women. If you like to spend time outdoors, always use a sunscreen with at least an SPF rating of 30. Tanning beds are as harmful as the natural sun. Avoid using them and opt for topical sunless tanning creams or lotions instead.

Smoking

Smoking causes the blood vessels to constrict allowing less blood flow to the face. This reaction can cause lines and wrinkles to form more easily. Just the action of smoking can cause repetitive movement of muscles around the mouth that can lead to unattractive, puckering lines. Commit to quitting by joining a smoking cessation program, using nicotine replacement products and finding better ways to deal with stress.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Although a little alcohol can be relaxing and even healthy, more than one or two drinks per day can have a detrimental effect on your appearance. Alcohol constricts blood vessels of the skin, making it easier for wrinkles to form. Keep your alcohol consumption down to two drinks each day and avoid social events that involve heavy drinking.

Stress

Anxiety and worry cause muscle tightening that can lead to wrinkles and deep lines in the forehead, around the eyes and around the mouth. Make a concerted effort to manage stress by engaging in stress relieving activities like exercise. Learn to meditate to keep stress under control throughout the day.

Poor Sleeping Habits

Lack of sleep or poor quality sleep can show on your face rather quickly. Review your bedtime routine to ensure that you are not eating or drinking foods that can keep you awake. Create a routine to help lull you into a sleeping frame of mind, like turning down the lighting, playing soft music or some light reading.

Genetics

Though you can’t change the genes your parents gave you, you can make the most of what you have. Make sure you eat a healthy diet every day. Exercise regularly to facilitate good circulation and a trim body. If the usual remedies do not provide beneficial results, make an appointment with an experienced plastic surgeon to see if a face lift can help to restore your youthful appearance.