The 3 things you didn’t know were ageing you

When it comes to a healthy complexion, we’re all aware of a few things that contribute to the premature signs of ageing. Not having a regular skin care routine, not using sunscreen every day, and not drinking enough water are probably the ones you’re most familiar with, and you’re likely to be on top of managing them. 

But there are a few secret skin agers out there that you probably had no idea were contributing to early wrinkles, a lack of radiance, a loss of firmness and elasticity, and an older-looking complexion. 

So we’re here to help reveal the things you didn’t know were ageing your skin, plus the easy fixes to help you maintain a more youthful appearance. 

Pollution

Yes, besides having to worry about the sun’s rays compromising the health of your skin, you should also be aware that the pollution in the air could also be doing some damage. 

“Signs of environmental damage such as rough skin, inflammation and hyperpigmentation can be a direct result of pollutant particles. The reason skin is susceptible to damage from pollution is that it’s so easy for these particles to penetrate the skin. Nanoparticles, the most harmful components of ambient particulate matter, can be up to 20 times smaller than human pores, allowing them to easily penetrate the skin’s surface without an adequate layer of protection,” says Dr. Dendy Engelman, Elizabeth Arden’s Consulting Dermatologist.

This ambient particle matter also generates excess free radicals, which interfere with skin’s ability to produce collagen and elastin and retain moisture, speeding up the signs of ageing. There are also studies that have found that pollution is directly correlated to a rise in dark spots, inflammation, fine lines and wrinkles. 

The fix
When you can’t see or feel pollution, it may seem impossible to try and counteract its effects, but protecting and shielding your skin is easier than you think. Elizabeth Arden Prevage® City Smart, a tinted moisturiser-meets-skin protector, was developed to be used daily to protect skin from pollution. Anti-pollution shield technology helps to create a protective barrier that prevents harmful toxins and pollution particles from penetrating skin; while powerful antioxidant idebenone neutralises free radical damage to prevent the future signs of ageing.

Your pillow

While getting your beauty sleep can help ease the early signs of ageing, the material of your pillowcase can actually contribute to wrinkling. If you’re using cotton or polyester pillowcases, the fabric could be hindering the moisture your skin retains during the night, and dehydrated skin can lead to dryness, lines, wrinkles, and a dull complexion. 

The fix
Swap out your cotton pillowcases for a fabric that will work harder to maintain the hydration in your skin, and will be less likely to leave you with sleep wrinkles coming morning time. Silk, especially 100 per cent silk, is a lot gentler on skin.
Try: Slip Pillowcase

Squinting

Squinting while driving or shielding your eyes from the sun may seem harmless enough, but the repetitive facial movement is actually weakening the elastin around your eyes, and this can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet. 

The fix
Bite the bullet and get your eyes checked for a pair of glasses, and always make sure you have a pair of polarised sunglasses on hand during the day. Polarised lenses reduce glare and neutralise colours on a sunny day so you don’t need to squint to see.

Image credit: Getty