20 Bad Habits That Lead to Premature Aging

Although aging is an inevitable process, certain habits and the lack of health-related routines can accelerate this process and push the body, mind, and overall well-being towards premature aging. From simple things like keeping up with all the fashion trends to maintaining a hair style for many years, there are all sorts of habits that make individuals appear older than their actual age.

In this article, we will examine habits that lead to premature aging.

1.Wrinkles caused by tanning and skin aging

According to the American Cancer Society, exposure to UV rays not only leads to cancer but also contributes to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. The type of damage that these rays cause to skin cells makes individuals look older than they actually are. People who want to maintain a healthy glow should use specialized tanning lotions and avoid tanning beds and direct sunlight.

2.Excessive hair coloring makes hair rough and brittle

Changing hair color is not a difficult task. Even coloring the hair roots to get rid of gray hairs is not a big problem and is harmless. The problem arises when an individual colors their hair excessively. Over-coloring causes essential oils and fats in the hair to disappear, and the hair becomes rough, brittle, and appears much older. There is nothing like soft and youthful hair.

3.Very thin and delicate eyebrows

Years ago, thin eyebrows were a trend. But now, thin and narrow eyebrows are used as a symbol to show off a person's fashion. Thin eyebrows not only make a person appear as if they're living in an old-fashioned era, but they also make them look older because eyebrows become thinner with age.

4.Sleep deprivation leads to decreased collagen production

According to research, adults between the ages of 26 to 64 require at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep at night. Sleep deprivation can make people appear older because there is a relationship between sleep deprivation and the stress hormone cortisol. According to studies by the Cleveland Clinic, cortisol hormone can decrease collagen, a protein that keeps the skin youthful and supple.

5.Over-washing of the face

Washing the face is important, but over-washing can lead to the aging process of an individual because it strips the skin's protective oils and makes the skin appear tired. According to Gretchen Frieling, a dermatologist, "Over-washing of the face can harm the skin's protective barrier, making it easier for the environment to cause damage. It also affects the effectiveness of moisture recovery and over time leads to the development of signs of aging.

6.Not Exercising

A study conducted at the University of Birmingham showed that people who exercise regularly age more slowly, have a stronger immune system, stronger muscles, and lower cholesterol levels. Therefore, it is natural for people who do not exercise or even walk to look older.

7.Drinking excessive amounts of coffee throughout the day

Although drinking a cup of coffee in the morning is harmless, consuming too much caffeine can accelerate the aging process. In addition to the risk of having coffee-stained teeth, drinking excessive amounts of coffee can also lead to insomnia. Lack of sleep, combined with the dehydration caused by coffee, causes the person's skin to slowly sag due to collagen breakdown.

8.Stress can accelerate aging

While stress is a normal part of life, having too much stress can affect your skin and youthfulness. Research conducted in Avon has shown a direct relationship between stress-related emotions and skin aging. In addition to removing the elasticity of the skin, stress-induced frowning can also cause wrinkles and fine lines.

9.Daily sugar consumption

Consuming a small amount of sugar is good for the soul, but keep in mind that consuming an excessive amount of sugar is associated with skin aging. Researchers have found that high glucose stimulates a process called glycation, which ultimately leads to collagen stiffening, causing the skin to lose its elasticity.

10.Not using dental floss

 Using dental floss is one of the habits that many people overlook in their daily routine. However, flossing is very important because not doing so can lead to premature aging of the mouth, as teeth and their gums become more susceptible to decay and infection. According to studies by the Harvard Health Center, individuals should use dental floss at least twice a day. 

11.Matte makeup can make the skin appear tired

Although many people may like the appearance of matte makeup, it actually makes a person look older. Even for those with oily skin, matte creams can create lines and wrinkles and accentuate facial flaws. Instead, it is recommended to use luminous makeup, as it reflects light and creates a youthful appearance.

12.Keeping the Same Hair Style

Many people have doubts about their hair style. However, having the same hair style for years can make it seem like the person is living in the past and make them appear older. According to style expert Stephanie Campbell, styles and trends change, and if you use one style for a long time, it appears as if you are still living in that time.

13.Very thick eyeliner

While a bold style might be a popular choice for some people, be cautious not to use it when it comes to eyeliner. Very thick, dark eyeliner around the eyes can make eye lines and wrinkles more pronounced. This can make you appear slightly older. Shreeda Tailor, an expert in makeup and beauty, suggests that by drawing and accentuating the texture around the eyes, we intensify signs of aging.

14.Not using moisturizer

 Not using moisturizer is a simple way to age the skin. Like other vital organs of the body, the skin also stays alive with hydration, which moisturizers provide in abundance. Without keeping the skin moisturized, especially the facial skin, it looks dry, flaky, and tired, making the person appear older and prone to premature aging.

15.Not drinking enough water throughout the day

According to Cleveland Clinic research, people who don't drink enough water during the day can become dehydrated and lose the radiance of their skin. Niti Patel, a nutrition specialist, also says that drinking enough water throughout the day helps with digestion and keeps the person energetic and aging healthily.

16.Using highlighter and other metallic makeup components

Metallic makeup such as shimmery eyeshadows and highlighters can be attractive for use at night, but it is recommended not to use these products excessively as they can make you look older. As the skin ages, it loses its elasticity. The use of metallic makeup can draw unwanted attention while also emphasizing this lack of elasticity.

17.Following fashion trends and wearing unflattering styles

Fashion trends come and go, and following any of them can make people appear older. Although it may seem like wearing more youthful clothing can make someone look younger, the opposite is actually true and it's not aesthetically pleasing.

18.Daily hair washing removes essential oils from hair

 Many people may not realize that daily hair washing is not necessary. Washing hair with shampoo every day removes essential and natural oils from hair and can make hair appear dry. Although dry hair can make someone appear older, washing hair every few days is avoidable.

19.Slouching and not standing up straight

Apart from the fact that slouching is harmful to a person's bones, it also makes them appear older. Poor and improper posture can lead to a hunchback, which contributes to premature aging and makes a person appear older than their actual age. To prevent the aging process, it is important to pull your shoulders back and stand up straight.

20.Sitting in front of a screen for a long time

 People spend a lot of hours per day in front of screens such as phones, computers, tablets, and televisions. Studies have shown that the blue light emitted from these screens can create pigmentation in the skin and ultimately lead to premature skin aging. In addition, hunching over a screen to read news or other content can lead to back problems and neck wrinkles.

Do you have any of these habits? Have you ever paid attention to how these small daily habits can accelerate the aging process?