Patients are particularly aware of their skin during the holidays. The holiday season means office parties and parent-teacher meetings, family gatherings and reunions with old friends, and far more pictures than people take during the rest of the year. And, of course, the brisk winter weather does its best to undermine the soft, supple skin we wish was on display in each year’s Christmas photos. Whether you choose chemical peels, surgical facelifts, or fresh skin care routines to rejuvenate your skin this winter, there are some habits that everyone should break.
5 Habits That Cause Wrinkles
- Smoking. Numerous studies have shown that smoking is the primary cause of premature aging. It also increases patients’ risks of infection, slows the healing process, and, in some cases, limits the results of cosmetic procedures.
- Dehydration. Whether the problem is alcohol, frequent exertion without rehydration, or simply not drinking enough water, dehydration visibly reduces the plump freshness of the skin. Over time dehydration limits the production of collagen, reducing the elasticity of the skin.
- Forgetting sunscreen. It’s easy to forget sunscreen on a cool, overcast day, but even a few minutes of sun exposure can lead to fine lines and creases in the skin. To guarantee daily skin protection, use moisturizer or foundation with a built-in sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. Moisturizing is also important to reducing wrinkles over time.
- Poor sleep. Good sleep, regular exercise, and a balanced diet lead to increased production of growth hormones that keep skin thick and elastic. Inadequate sleep causes production of cortisol, a hormone that breaks down the cells of the skin. Studies show that sleeping with your face pressed against the pillow also causes wrinkles over time.
- Bad Makeup Routines. Do you have crow’s feet and fine lines around your mouth? Chances are you’ve spent part of your life pulling the skin around your eyes and lips to better apply makeup. Never pull your skin taut to apply eyeliner, mascara, or lipstick; it’s a surefire way to develop deep furrows in the skin.
Are you interested in cosmetic facial rejuvenation for the holidays? Call Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brantner.
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