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Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered why your skin looks older than your age? The American Academy of Dermatology says nearly 50 per cent of people aged 25 to 65 have skin issues such as acne, pigmentation, dullness, dryness, and premature ageing. This may occur due to natural ageing, but it may also be driven by external factors such as lifestyle and exposure to pollution.
Skin may age faster than usual in some people, not simply because of the products they use, but mainly due to their daily lifestyle.
Let’s be honest: sleep is often the first thing we give up for work, social events, or binge-watching our favourite shows. If you regularly sleep less than 7-8 hours, you hurt your skin’s healing process. Dr Shareefa Chause, a dermatologist in Mumbai, tells Health Shots, “Poor sleep lowers collagen production, which is important for keeping skin firm and elastic. This can cause dryness and visible signs of ageing.” Lack of sleep can raise cortisol levels, a hormone that can cause acne. When we can’t sleep well, our skin misses out on the necessary healing that happens during deep sleep. If you plan to stay up late, remember that a good night’s sleep is important for your skin, not just your appearance.
Stress is a common part of life, but it can seriously affect your skin. When stress levels rise, cortisol levels increase, which can lead to breakouts and skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Managing stress through activities like yoga, meditation, or exercise can improve your skin’s health. Dr Shareefa says that “around 50% of patients believe stress is a major cause of their skin problems. By managing stress and slowing down your life, you create a better environment for your skin to thrive rather than suffer.”
What you eat affects your skin as much as the products you use. A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can cause inflammation, leading to dull skin and breakouts. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can improve your skin. Dr Chause says, “Eating without paying attention can lead to missing important nutrients, which can harm your skin. Try swapping sugary snacks for foods high in antioxidants and vitamins. This will help your skin, and you’ll find that the glow you want is just a healthier meal away.”
We spend a lot of time looking at screens in our digital lives. However, excessive screen time can accelerate ageing. The blue light from phones, tablets, and laptops can disrupt our skin’s natural processes and worsen pigmentation. Taking regular breaks from screens, using blue-light filters, and choosing products with antioxidants can help reduce adverse effects on your skin. Set a timer on your phone to remind you to unplug and give your skin and mind a much-needed rest. Dr Chause emphasises that “responsible screen time, along with protective skincare, can help keep your skin looking youthful.”
Pollution is a constant threat to skin health. From city smog to indoor air pollutants, your skin is exposed to many harmful particles every day. These particles can cause inflammation and accelerate ageing. They can also damage the skin’s protective barrier. To fight these effects, it is important to have a good skincare routine. To protect your skin from pollution, it’s important to cleanse it properly after exposure. Use serums rich in antioxidants and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Dr Chause suggests “taking steps to manage these environmental factors. If you ignore your skin in a polluted world, it can lead to serious long-term problems.”
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