Dr Kate Jameson – the co-founder of Youth Lab – has a background in general practice (GP), and as a cosmetic physician, she knows how looking youthful is on most people’s radar.
“By becoming aware of these surprising habits [that age you] and making simple changes, you can significantly slow down the ageing process and maintain a youthful appearance,” said Dr Kate.
“Don’t let these sneaky age-accelerators catch you off guard. Start making positive changes today and watch the years melt away.”
One way you could be creating wrinkles, for example, is by sleeping on your stomach or side. Dr Kate said these nighttime sleeping positions “cause your face to scrunch against the pillow, leading to permanent sleep lines and wrinkles”.
A better alternative is to sleep on your back and to invest in a silk pillowcase to reduce friction.
Another big no-no is skipping sunscreen on cloudy days. “You might think you only need sunscreen on sunny days, but UV rays penetrate clouds and cause skin damage every day,” said Dr Kate.
Her professional advice is to apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather. “Your skin will thank you later,” Dr Kate promised.
Dr Kate also advised drinking through a straw, which can otherwise “cause fine lines around your mouth”.
Even looking at screens for too long can age you, said Dr Kate; she explained: “Constant exposure to blue light from phones, computers, and tablets can damage your skin and eyes, leading to premature ageing.
“Use blue light filters on your devices and take regular breaks to rest your eyes. Consider blue light-blocking glasses for extra protection.”
In terms of showering, lukewarm water – sealed by a blast of cold water – is best as hot water can dry out the skin and lead to premature ageing.
When it comes to good skincare, don’t forget your neck and hands – both areas benefit from regular moisturising and sunscreen.
Just as important as what you put onto the skin, what goes inside of your body has an impact too.
“A high-sugar diet can lead to glycation, a process that damages collagen and elastin, causing saggy skin and wrinkles,” warned Dr Kate.
So in addition to cutting back on sugary snacks and drinks, you need to make sure you are hydrated.
“Dehydration can make your skin look dull and accentuate fine lines and wrinkles,” said Dr Kate. “Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated and glowing.”
Habits that are ageing you
- Sleeping on your side
- Skipping sunscreen
- Drinking through a straw
- Too much screen time
- Showering in hot water
- Not moisturising hands and neck
- Eating sugary foods
- Not drinking enough water