CecilEveryone knows that skin aging is a natural process that is determined by time, the environment, and the actions of the individual as well. Among many things that cause skin aging are smoking and drinking too much alcohol. Smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol are very harmful to the skin and lead to signs of aging such as wrinkles and other skin ailments. Lifestyle choices should be made very wisely so that you can have better-looking skin. To read more about the effects of lifestyle choices that affect skin health click here.
Smoking and Its Impacts on the Skin
Tobacco smoking is one of the worst habits for human beings. Nicotine is known to cause the shrinking of blood vessels and so the skin is poor in oxygen and nutrients, and this makes it pale and unhealthy. The constant revelation of carbon monoxide also negates the skin’s oxygen which should also aid in the process of whitening the skin. Smoking also impacts skin dryness and wrinkles because collagen and elastin, a type of protein, are also affected. Thus, smokers are guaranteed to attain what is referred to as the smoker’s lines around the mouth, eye, and forehead regions.
Alcohol and Skin Aging
Alcohol is a diuretic drug and if one takes too much of it, the skin dries up becomes rough, and variations scaly rashes. Water absence also impacts the skin tone and makes the skin dry up, wrinkle, and create fine lines. Alcohol also dilates the blood vessels, particularly the capillaries just beneath the skin hence making the skin red, and the development of broken capillaries especially on the face. This in the long run leads to skin becoming permanently red and formation of diseases such as rosacea.
Reduction of Antioxidants
Smoking and alcohol are much worse than either smoking or alcohol alone in skin aging. Both of them lower the body’s antioxidants and raise oxidative stress and inflammation, which results in more skin aging. If the alcohol consumer is also a smoker, then he or she is even more at risk of having deep wrinkles, sagging skin, and uneven skin tone. The combined effects can also make the skin lose its natural shine and it has a sort of ashy look therefore the skin looks older than it is.
Preventing Skin Aging Caused by Smoking and Alcohol
People who smoke should quit smoking because this process gradually improves the skin tone and elasticity. This is the only treatment for this problem. After all, the circulation of blood is better and the oxygen supply to the skin is restored. It is also possible to decrease the effects of such behaviors by stopping smoking, avoiding alcohol, using creams with antioxidants, drinking water, and avoiding exposure to the sun. Other treatments include orally and topically administered retinoids, vitamin C serums, and professional treatments that can also work to reverse some of the damage.
Skincare Routine
Everyone should follow a skincare routine to protect the skin is essential to prevent any form of damage. The use of antioxidant-containing products such as Vitamin C serum to fight free radicals, the use of retinoids to stimulate cell production, and collagen synthesis to lessen fine lines and wrinkles. It also aids in the shedding of the skin to let the new skin out for a youthful look. The use of mild soap and water-based moisturizer also benefits skin health because it does not compromise the skin barrier and cause dryness.
Sun Protection
Smoking and alcohol cause the skin to become sensitive to the sun and thus the skin must be protected from the sun. Applying sunscreen with a broad spectrum and an SPF of 30 or higher every day blocks the rays from entering and delaying aging and skin damage. Furthermore, the Healthy Diet options can influence the skin and how it looks. Try to include products that match your skin type and do not have adverse effects like rash or redness. Always wear clothing that covers your maximum skin so that UV rays won’t get in contact with your skin.
Conclusion
Tobacco and alcohol are two of the most dangerous rivals of the skin which lead to early aging, wrinkles, and pale skin. Smoking damages the skin by narrowing the blood vessels, encouraging free radicals and alcohol dehydrating the skin, and taking away nutrients that are essential for the skin. However, if such habits are abandoned and a proper diet is adopted, then the aging process can be arrested and some of the effects can be even reversed, thus making the skin healthier and therefore appearing to be younger.