A large percentage of the population wants to do everything in their power to ensure that they look as young as possible. However, there are a few habits that many people engage in which have the ability to make them look far older than they really are.
1. Spending too Much Time in the Sun
Although spending a little time in the sun each day is essential for our health, it is important not to overstay our welcome outdoors. This is especially true between 10AM and 3PM when the sun’s UV index is at its highest. Unlimited sun exposure will result in the development of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin, causing it to age prematurely and look older than it really is. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, it is important to invest in a good quality sunscreen product.
2. Smoking
Cigarettes are known to contain over 500 chemical compounds – all of which are harmful to our health. These chemicals dry out the skin and the nicotine in cigarettes is renowned for turning the skin yellow. Numerous studies have shown that people who smoke or who are regularly exposed to second-hand smoke show external signs of aging and look a lot older than they are quicker than those who don’t.
3. Drinking Insufficient Amounts of Water
Many people are under the impression that they can replace their required daily water intake with other beverages such as soda, coffee or alcohol. However, when they do this, it results in their bodies experiencing the effects of dehydration. This is because pure water is required in order for the organs to function optimally, excrete waste and prevent the formation of wrinkles. If these toxins are not removed from the body each day, they can cause a person to look old before their time.
4. Wearing too Much Make-Up
In order to look and feel healthy, our skin needs to be able to breathe properly. Many people make the mistake of wearing excessive amounts of make-up, which blocks the pores and causes the skin to age prematurely. It may be a good idea to restrict the wearing of make-up to special occasions, as this will help prevent the skin from aging prematurely.
5. Consuming an Unhealthy Diet
Our bodies require a balanced diet in order to look and feel their best. However, many people consume diets that consist almost entirely of processed foods that offer no nutritional value whatsoever. As a result, the body has to work harder than usual in order to perform regular daily activities. This will cause it to age prematurely and look a lot older than necessary, especially in the facial area. One of the best ways to retain a youthful appearance is to consume as many fruits and vegetables as possible.
Changing habits such as these may sometimes be challenging at first. However, the long-term results are usually well worth the effort – especially when we look in the mirror and see someone who is healthier than ever looking back at us.
Above Image Source: Flickr/CreativeCommons/David Harris
