Premature aging is when your skin begins to experience unnatural aging. There are many reasons why premature aging can happen.
Let’s take a look at the main causes of premature aging, and how we can prevent them.
1. Sun exposure

Sun damage is one cause of skin spots and wrinkles.
Why: Sun exposure for longer than 15 minutes can cause moisture loss due to damage to the sebaceous glands.
The process of oxidation damages the collagen in your skin. It alters the texture of your skin, making it appear thicker, more wrinkled, and rougher over time.
Preventing: Use a high-quality UVA and UVB sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Use a good amount of sunscreen to protect your skin.
Reapply every two hours. Even on cloudy days, do not forget to apply sunscreen.
2. Smoking or drinking alcohol

You should also add premature aging to your list of reasons you should stop smoking and drinking!
Why? Smoking can cause skin problems. Your skin isn’t getting enough oxygen, which causes wrinkles and fine lines. Your skin must have oxygen to be healthy and radiant. Smoking can also lead to Vitamin C deficiencies, which will make your skin look older and saggier.
You can also get fine lines around your mouth from smoking if your lips are tightly closed.
The skin can become extremely dry from alcohol, which can make it look older.
How can you prevent it? To keep your skin and your body healthy, cut down on alcohol intake and add fresh juices to your diet.
These addictions and habits can be treated with therapies.
3. Stress

Try frowning in front of a mirror to see wrinkles on your forehead. Imagine if you’re constantly worried and stressed. It would make your wrinkles more permanent.
Why? Stress causes certain hormones to be released in your body, including adrenaline and cortisol. They accelerate aging and can cause premature aging.
How do you prevent it? Meditate three times a week to calm down your mind. Simple meditations can be done for as little as 15 minutes. To relieve stress, you can take up a hobby or visit a spa at least once per month.
4. Poor Diet
Your skin will reflect what you eat.
Why? Consuming processed junk food high in sugar or salt will only cause inflammation. This would lead to skin breakouts and premature aging.
How can be prevented? Eat foods rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and protein. These will keep your skin healthy and youthful. Avoid processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and canned juices.
5. Lack of exercise

Exercise is important for your skin.
Why? Exercise improves blood circulation, which can slow down the aging process. It will also make your skin radiant.
How do you prevent it? Include a 30-minute workout into your daily schedule. You can do cardio, swimming or jogging.
6. Sleep deprivation
Beauty sleep is essential for healthy skin.
Why? Your skin heals itself while you sleep through the release of growth hormones from the Pituitary gland. Your skin will lose its glow and sag if you don’t get enough rest.
How do you prevent it? You need to sleep for at least 8 hours a night to keep your skin healthy. To avoid friction, sleep on your back and not on your sides.
7. Environment conditions
When living in rooms heated or cooled by air conditioners, a sign of aging may start to be evident.
Why? Harsh environment conditions can cause the skin to lose its natural balance, making it thin, wrinkled, and dry. Your skin will look older than it really is.
You will age faster if you have skin problems caused by pollution and dust.
How can be prevented? Make sure your environment is clean. This includes your room, bed sheets, and pillowcases. To keep your room dust-free, you can purchase an air purifier.
8. Hydration

Your skin can quickly age if it isn’t properly hydrated.
Why? Your skin will look dry and aged if it doesn’t get enough water.
How can you prevent it? Get at least 6 glasses of fluids every day. Eat vegetables and fruits high in water, like cucumber and watermelon. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and canned drinks.
9. Repetitive facial movements
Repeated facial expressions can lead to deep wrinkles or fine lines.
Why? Permanent fine lines and wrinkles can be caused by repeated facial movements.
How To Avoid It: Don’t use the same facial expressions. Avoid frowning, squinting, and pouting.
Conclusion
These are the main causes of premature aging. These will help you to understand the causes of premature aging and how to avoid them. It is possible to control premature aging once you understand the causes and how to avoid it.