Common Causes of Visible Signs of Aging

There’s no way to completely avoid aging. Time is inevitable, and eventually your skin will begin to break down and sag. However, environmental factors and lifestyle choices can speed up this process and lead to premature aging. If you want to preserve your youthful complexion for as long as possible, it’s important to avoid aging factors and consult with a skincare specialist. 

At Laughlin Plastic Surgery in Annapolis, Maryland, Dr. Laughlin and his team offer cosmetic skin services to combat the signs of aging and give you back that youthful glow.

Understanding how you age

Our skin is the largest organ in our body, and contains a vast network of proteins. Two of these proteins include collagen and elastin, which are responsible for keeping your skin supple and tight. As you get older, production of these proteins begins to decrease. This leads to a loss of volume and elasticity, which creates wrinkles. 

Hyperpigmentation is also a common form of aging. This includes sun spots, darkened skin, and increased scarring. Aging can have many causes, but hyperpigmentation is often caused by exposure to the sun. 

Common causes of premature aging 

Premature aging can happen to anyone, regardless of their actual age. Many people experience wrinkles, sun spots, and other visible signs of aging long before they reach 40, and there are a number of reasons behind this. Common causes of premature aging include: 

• Prolonged sun exposure
• Stress
• Genetics
• Repetitive facial expressions 
• Smoking 
• Chronic dehydration 

Contrary to popular belief, time is not the leading cause of aging — it’s sunlight. Sun damage, or photoaging, describes the effects UV radiation has on your skin. You don’t need to spend hours on the beach to incur sun damage; your skin absorbs UV rays every time you step outside. Over time, this damage can build up and lead to photoaging. 

How to protect your skin

The best way to prevent premature aging is to wear sunscreen daily. Many people avoid sunscreen because it feels unpleasant on their skin and interferes with makeup. However, you can find plenty of daily-wear sunscreens designed by skincare companies. Invest in one of these, and apply it every morning before you go out. 

You should also avoid squinting and other repetitive expressions. You squint more than you realize, especially if you go outside without sunglasses. Keep a few pairs throughout your car, house, and office, and make a habit of wearing them outside. 

Along with drinking water, reducing stress, and quitting cigarettes, you can improve your complexion by receiving skin treatments. Many specialists recommend microneedling, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion to keep your skin tight and healthy. 

Have you noticed signs of aging on your face? Get in touch with the experts at Laughlin Plastic Surgery by calling 410-297-0654, or visit the contact page for more information.