The skin is the body’s largest organ, requiring appropriate care and maintenance. Not following a healthy skincare routine can lead to signs of skin aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, and other skin disorders. Unfortunately, many unknowingly make mistakes in their skincare routine and follow unhealthy lifestyle practices that worsen these issues and harm the skin. This post lists five common mistakes that can lead to premature skin aging.

Excessive sun or heat exposure
Constant exposure to the sun can lead to dark spots, wrinkles, skin roughness, and other conditions like solar elastosis. The best way to tackle these issues is to use sunscreen before leaving the house to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Sunscreen must be applied throughout the year, irrespective of the weather conditions. Winter is no exception. But individuals must choose a quality product, preferably a mineral sunscreen, as it is the most effective for sun protection. Zinc-based sun-blocking lotions are also helpful.

Besides using sunscreen, it is advisable to avoid using hot tubs and saunas for long periods. Their extreme heat and humidity may hasten the aging process by inhibiting elastin and collagen formation. To prevent heat damage, one can shower with lukewarm water.

Not washing the face
Washing the face with water is a simple way to prevent premature aging. It helps eliminate dead skin cells that often cause a drab appearance on the skin. One can wash their face after waking up in the morning and before bed. But it is essential to be gentle; scrubbing too hard can damage the skin and worsen any rash. Individuals must also avoid touching the face constantly.

Exposure to pollution
Pollution is a significant problem in most cities that affects human health. The surrounding air contains free radicals that can break down collagen, increasing the risk of dark spots, wrinkles, and fine lines. It can also cause the skin to become dry. One way to fight this problem is to use antioxidant-rich serums or moisturizers for skin care. They help eliminate dry skin and free radicals and keep the skin looking fresh until the next wash.

Eating sugary foods
Excess sugar from baked goods or soda is bad for skin health. They cause the body to create enzymes that inhibit the formation of elastin and collagen, leading to wrinkles. Too much sugar can cause sagging skin earlier in life. While a few treats here and there are acceptable, regular sugar-heavy meals are not. The daily sugar intake should not exceed 38 grams for men and 25 grams for women.

Instead of sweets, individuals should opt for nutritious meals for beautiful skin. Antioxidants, vitamins, beta-carotene, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are a few skin-healthy nutrients. These can be acquired from foods like berries, tomatoes, seafood, yogurt, almonds, honey, and avocados. Simultaneously, junk food must be kept off the menu.

A lack of exercise
Daily exercise is vital for maintaining youthful skin. When a person performs physical activity, blood vessels dilate, and the skin gets a boost of oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood. Exercise is also known to promote collagen production and the growth of new skin cells. Therefore, exercise is an inseparable part of the daily skincare routine. It also helps manage other health conditions in the long term and maintain overall health.

Besides following the above skincare tips, one must get enough rest because a lack of sleep can hasten premature aging. Experts recommend getting seven to eight hours of unbroken sleep every night. When asleep, the skin cells repair themselves and get rid of the day’s fatigue. There is a correlation between how well one sleeps and how their skin looks and feels.