How to Correct the Signs of Premature Skin Aging

With the summer months right around the corner, it is time to start planning how to protect your skin from exposure to the sun. While many of us love a dip in the pool or laying out in the sun, it does produce UV (ultraviolet) rays that can cause our skin to burn, and create wrinkles, dark spots, and potentially cancerous lesions. The effects of the sun can make us much older than we are. Many research studies show that UV rays can be responsible for 80% of our skin’s aging appearance, according to WebMD.com.

Fortunately, experts have developed numerous products and procedures that can help us retain good skin, even despite sun exposure.

Protecting Your Skin from Pre-Mature Aging:

As we age, our body changes with us. Some of these changes will happen no matter what and no amount of exercise we take part in or how much sunblock we use. We know that the sun is the main culprit in premature aging, but there are other things we can do to combat our skin aging before it’s time. These tips are from Healthline.com.

Not staying hydrated. Our skin needs water and other nutrients to stay looking at its best. Not getting sufficient water intake can lead to dry skin, making it appear older than it is.

Not sleeping enough. Sleep is mandatory to refresh and regenerate the cells in our body. Not getting enough sleep or having poor quality sleep can lead to signs of aging.

Watch what you eat. Research shows that eating foods rich in sugar and refined carbohydrates can damage your skin.

Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake. Alcohol can severely dehydrate your body, which can cause your skin to sag; caffeine may have a similar effect on your body.

Pollutants can harm your skin. Your skin is in direct contact with everything around you, including air. Those living in environments that are subject to toxins and pollutants may find they appear to be aging faster than others.

Stress is a big factor. Those who are in stressful situations can see their stress in their skin. Plus, stress can lead to poor sleep, which is also a factor in premature aging of the skin.

What are the Signs of Aging?

There are a wide variety of skin abnormalities that may be signs of aging skin, especially if they are present before the age of 35.

Sun spots (or age spots or liver spots). The effects of the sun can show up on your skin via hyperpigmented spots on your face, hands, and forearms. Those with fair skin may experience sun spots earlier than those with darker skin tones.

Aging hands. A normal part of aging is that our skin becomes thinner due to a lack of natural collagen, which is responsible for keeping skin in shape. When you experience gaunt hands, you may have veins showing and noticeable wrinkles. This is typically seen around the age of 40.

Hyperpigmentation: Many people notice dark spots on their chest. They often look like sunspots but there are signs of skin damage due to sun exposure. Keep in mind several other conditions may also cause this, including eczema.

What Can Be Done for Aging Skin?

Many physicians suggest broadband light therapy (BBL), which is a safe and effective treatment modality for numerous skin conditions, according to Healthline.com. Dr. Joel Aronowitz and many other high-profile cosmetic physicians believe that BBL treatments help with the following:

Reduces the appearance of veins and acne

Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Helps to even out skin tone

Joel Aronowitz also states that whenever you are in the sun, be sure to use a strong sunscreen and wear a hat to shade your face.