Other than the passage of time, skin ageing is a universal yet individual process. We don't all age in the same way or at the same speed, because certain factors can accelerate the process of skin sagging.
An uhealthy lifestyle
Dietary deficiencies: deficiencies in essential nutrients, particularly vitamins C and E, omega-3s and antioxidants, weaken the skin by reducing its ability to defend itself against external damage and to produce sufficient collagen, a protein that maintains the skin's elasticity. This contributes to sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles.
Lack of sleep: sleep is essential for cell regeneration. Insufficient or poor quality sleep leads to poor regeneration of skin cells, which accentuates the signs of fatigue on the skin and encourages wrinkles.
Alcohol: promotes skin dehydration and generates oxidative stress, a process that damages cells and collagen fibres. The skin is less elastic, which accelerates the appearance of wrinkles.
Smoking: smoking reduces the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the skin, leading to a drop in the production of collagen and elastin, proteins that are essential for skin firmness and elasticity. According to a study by Morita (2007), nicotine disrupts skin metabolism by reducing the synthesis of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production. Cigarette smoke contains free radicals that cause cell damage and accelerate skin ageing. A study by Guyuron (2009) also shows that smoking activates oxidative stress, which alters skin cells, reduces skin elasticity and promotes the appearance of wrinkles. Nicotine causes vasoconstriction (narrowing) of the blood vessels. This reduces the blood supply and thus limits the supply of oxygen and nutrients needed by the skin. This has a direct impact on the radiance and colour of the skin, which becomes dull and paler.
The environment
Pollution: Pollution leads to increased production of free radicals, which oxidise proteins such as collagen, reducing the skin's firmness and elasticity. A 2016 study showed that exposure to fine particles is associated with the appearance of senile lentigo, a common sign of pigment ageing. In addition, pollution particles, particularly in urban environments, also disrupt the skin's barrier function, increasing transepidermal water loss.
The sun: Prolonged unprotected exposure to the sun damages the genetic material of skin cells, hastening the appearance of wrinkles and spots.