This is reported by the Real Simple website.

Internal aging processes and genetics

Associate Professor of Clinical Dermatology at Yale School of Medicine, Mona Gohara, MD, explains that part of the aging process starts from within and is largely determined by genetics.

With age, skin cells renew themselves more slowly, collagen production gradually decreases, and natural repair mechanisms no longer work as effectively.

According to the specialist, these changes occur almost imperceptibly and follow the genetic program laid down in the body from birth.

Impact of stress

Stress can also accelerate skin aging, although its effects appear gradually. According to experts, constant stress affects the body like background applications on a phone that silently drain the battery.

Chronically elevated cortisol levels support inflammation, impair sleep, and promote collagen breakdown over time.

To reduce the impact of stress, experts advise regularly doing small “reboots” for the nervous system – for example, doing breathing exercises, walking in the fresh air, doing light stretching, singing in the car, or taking a short dance break to a couple of your favorite songs.

Excess sugar

Dermatologist and director of clinical and cosmetic research in the Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital Joshua Zeichner explains that elevated blood sugar levels trigger the process of glycation.

During this process, sugar molecules combine with collagen, causing it to become stiffer. As a result, instead of flexibility, collagen fibers are damaged, which leads to the formation of wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity.

Therefore, experts recommend maintaining a balanced diet and reducing the amount of sugar, starchy foods and sweets. In addition, excess sugar can contribute to acne, so cutting it down often improves skin condition.

Smoking

Smoking is considered one of the strongest factors in premature skin aging after sun exposure. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, causing the skin to receive less oxygen and nutrients.

Over time, this slows down the repair process and accelerates the breakdown of collagen, leading to early wrinkles and changes in skin texture. As an alternative to a cigarette break, experts advise taking a short walk or chewing mint gum.

How to slow down premature skin aging

Full sleep

At night, the skin is actively restored. Lack of sleep can reduce collagen production and increase inflammation. Using a silk pillowcase can be a useful habit – it reduces friction and helps keep your skin and hair healthy for longer.

Protection from polluted air

Smog and fine particulate pollution cause oxidative stress, which breaks down collagen and weakens the skin’s protective barrier. Antioxidant products, such as vitamin C and niacinamide serums, can help support your skin.

Retinol

For skin care, retinoids are often recommended, which stimulate collagen production, as well as peptides that support skin repair processes.

Retinol is a form of vitamin A that:

stimulates collagen synthesis;

accelerates skin cell renewal;

reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines;

evens out skin tone and texture;

helps reduce pigmentation and post-acne marks;

increases skin elasticity.

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