13 Ways to Help Prevent Premature Skin Aging

Aging is an unavoidable and totally natural part of getting older. However, it’s understandable that you want to slow down signs of premature aging like fine lines and wrinkles. Fortunately, there are plenty of steps that you can take to help slow down signs of premature aging. From using skincare for wrinkles to getting enough sleep, here are tips that you can follow at any age:

Wear sunscreen every day.

The number one thing that you can do to prevent signs of premature aging is to wear sunscreen every day. That’s because UV exposure is the biggest contributor to signs of premature aging. Choose a sunscreen that has at least SPF 30 protection. It should also have a pleasant texture so that you will be motivated to wear it every day! Apply it to all your exposed skin, not just your face but also your neck and chest as well.

Use other sun protection methods.

You shouldn’t rely on SPF alone for sun protection. Instead, wear polarized sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat whenever you are outside in the sun. You should avoid the run when its rays are at its strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek out shade whenever you are outside on sunny days or bring an umbrella with you if you will be in direct sun.

Use self tanner instead.

If you love a bronze glow, skip lying out in the sun or getting into a tanning bed and opt for a self-tanner or tanning salon instead. These sprays and other self-tanning tanning products contain a chemical called DHA that darkens the top layer of your skin temporarily — without the damage caused by UV rays. You’ll get an instant bronze glow with no sweat or sunburn necessary.

Start using a retinol.

Derivatives of vitamin A — including retinols, retinals and retinoids — can help to slow premature aging when applied frequently. You can get lower concentrations of retinols and retinals over the counter, while prescriptions are normally required for retinoids, which are stronger. It can take a while for your skin to adjust to this powerful ingredient, so introduce it slowly in conjunction with moisturizing, soothing ingredients.

Incorporate antioxidants and peptides.

While antioxidants and peptides don’t have as much research behind them as retinol (yet), there is some evidence that they can also help prevent premature aging. If you’re looking to level up your anti-aging skincare routine, seek out skincare products that incorporate these ingredients. 

Moisturize your face regularly.

Dryness will exacerbate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, so moisturizing is key if you want plump, youthful-looking skin. You should moisturize your skin every time you wash your face, which for most people means twice a day, morning or night. You may want to use a lighter moisturizer during the day and a thicker anti-aging cream at night to help slow water loss while you sleep.

Limit repetitive facial expressions.

Making repetitive facial expressions, such as squinting or raising your eyebrows, causes the skin to fold in the same places over and over again. These movements form fine lines and wrinkles over time, leading to signs of aging. Limiting these repetitive facial expressions can help your face stay smooth and youthful.

Eat a healthy diet.

What we put inside our bodies is just as important as the skincare products we put on our faces. By eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, you will ensure that your skin gets the nutrients it needs to stay nourished and replenished. Prioritize lean proteins, whole grains and fruits and vegetables, and try to limit your consumption of sugar, sodium and processed foods.

Get enough sleep.

Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, so getting enough sleep is essential to maintaining a youthful complexion. Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep a night, but everyone’s needs are different. You should also practice good sleep habits, such as not drinking too much caffeine late in the day and avoiding screens for two hours before bedtime.

Establish an exercise routine.

Exercising regularly is another component of a healthy lifestyle that will contribute to healthy, youthful skin. Exercise boosts blood flow, which helps your body to circulate oxygen and nutrients to all organs, including the skin. Exercise also supports other items on this list, such as making you more tired so that you sleep well at night.

Manage your stress.

We know this is easier said than done, but stress has a major impact on your skin as well as other areas of your health. When your body is constantly stressed, it can’t repair and heal itself like usual, which can lead to signs of premature aging and general wear and tear. Try to manage your stress level and find effective yet healthy coping mechanisms that help to lower your stress levels over time.

Stop smoking.

After sun exposure, smoking is one of the other main contributors to signs of premature aging in your skin. If you currently smoke, quitting is one of the best things that you can do to prevent fine lines and wrinkles from forming. If you don’t smoke yourself but encounter lots of secondhand smoke, do what you can to minimize your exposure.

Consider dermatology treatments.

While anti-aging skincare can definitely make a difference when started early and used consistently, as you age you might find yourself wanting treatments that are a little more powerful. Visiting a dermatologist for an in-office treatment such as Botox or laser resurfacing will have a much greater effect than anything you do at home.

What are your other favorite tips for preventing signs of premature aging in your skin? Are you already using anti-aging products and treatments or are you just beginning to think about it? Let us know in the comments below!