Researchers have found that there are two types of aging: intrinsic and extrinsic. They’re similar to the idea of nature versus nurture: intrinsic aging is caused by the genes you inherit while extrinsic aging is a product of environmental factors. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to combat intrinsic aging (thanks a lot, Mom and Dad!), but thankfully, there are some steps you can take to limit aging extrinsically.
Always wear sunscreen. You have heard it time and time again: wear your sunscreen! Without proper protection, sun exposure is the most damaging thing you can do to your skin. You would be amazed to see the skin of someone who took care of their skin versus someone who did not. Freckles, age spots, spider veins and rough skin are all side effects of excessive exposure to the sun’s rays.
Don’t frown. While sometimes life can be unpleasant and as a result, frowning occurs, remember to turn that frown upside down for the sake of your face. Repetitive facial movements lead to fine lines and wrinkles. Every time you move your facial muscles, a groove forms beneath the surface of your skin and over time, that deepening groove unconsciously indicates your age to those around you.
Quit smoking now! This statement is truly obvious because everyone knows just how bad smoking is. Cigarettes cause biochemical changes in your body that accelerate aging. This can affect your face, teeth, and organs.
Don’t sleep in the same position. Sleep lines are caused from sleeping face down, with your face resting against your pillow. Sleeping in the same position every night for several years will cause the lines and wrinkles to become permanently etched on the surface of your skin. Your skin is fairly elastic, but after a while and with age, the lines that once disappeared when you woke up will remain. Think about changing your pillowcases to satin ones. This allows your face to slide around the pillow cases instead of letting the pillowcase contribute to facial wrinkles.
To learn more about how Orlando cosmetic surgeon, Dr. George Pope, and the team at Pope Plastic Surgery can help you slow the signs of aging, contact us today.
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