While we all acknowledge that our faces, along with our bodies, will age as we grow older, many of my NW Indiana plastic surgery patients want to know what can be done to prevent premature facial aging.
As we age, our body’s internal processes slow down. This includes skin cell turnover, a decrease in collagen (a building block of youthful skin), loss of muscle mass, and bone shrinkage, among others. While these processes cannot be prevented, here are 5 ways to reduce the signs of aging.
What is Premature Facial Aging?
If you notice these signs of aging prior to the age of 35, you may be experiencing premature aging.
- Sun Spots, also called age spots and liver spots. These are flat spots on the surface of the skin and are caused by sun exposure. They can appear anywhere on the face back of the hands, forearms and usually appear after the age of 40, although those with fair skin might see them earlier.
- Thinning hands that show veins and wrinkles usually appear in the late 30s or early 40s. This is caused by a depletion of fat and collagen that give hands a youthful, full appearance.
- Hyperpigmentation on the Chest, which is often patchy in nature, and caused by sun exposure.
- Skin Dryness, while normal for some, is a sign of aging for those prior to 40.
- Superficial Wrinkles, due to the slowdown of collagen production.
- Hair Loss or Thinning, due to hormonal changes, diet and often, genetics.
5 Ways to Combat Premature Aging
- Don’t smoke. If you smoke, stop.
- Limit sun exposure, including tanning beds
- Sleep habits: getting 8 hours per night helps your body recover and rebuild
- Diet: Stay low in sugar and refined carbs for the healthiest skin
- Alcohol and Caffeine should be limited, as both are dehydrating.
The Bottom Line
Fighting visible signs of skin aging requires multiple points of attention: diet, sleep, hydration, and exercise. I also recommend that you make a point of treating your previous skin to treatments like microneedling and other esthetician services, as well as careful choice of the correct skincare products for your particular skin. Like many things in life, a multi-pronged approach generally works the best.
To your health and beauty,
Gus Galante, MD, FACS
Board Certified NW Indiana Plastic Surgeon
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