3 myths about skin aging

Andrea Varga-Darabos 3 myths about skin aging 03 June 2016 | 2 minute reading time

There are many ill-informed theories and myths as to what you should and shouldn’t do in order to maintain the firmness and smoothness of your facial skin. It’s important that you know what you should believe and what you should ignore.

Wrinkles are the number-one sign of skin aging

Most people prefer anti-aging creams to sunscreens as they are more afraid of wrinkles than pigment stains. But beware: harmful sunrays not only promote the formation of wrinkles but uneven skin colour, blotches and freckles too. Age not only brings wrinkles it also makes the skin thinner, duller and less elastic.

Drinking several litres of water a day and hydration prevent wrinkles

Unfortunately, this isn’t completely true either. Keeping your skin hydrated is very important but it’s not enough to keep your skin firm. As it ages, the skin also produces less and less sebum – you can replenish that with beauty oils and butters.

On my blog you could already read about the importance of protecting the lipid layer of your skin as that’s your body’s frontline defence. If that sensitive sebum layer is damaged your skin becomes more vulnerable to harmful external impacts such as infections, impurities and UV-radiation. Many people will see their sebum production increase as the skin is trying to restore its own natural balance. Harsh chemicals may erode this protective layer and reduce your skin’s ability to retain moisture. They can also lead to more oiliness on your forehead and around your nose.

If your mum looks 10 years younger than her age you don’t need to worry either

That statement is not quite true as 80-90% of the factors that determine skin aging are down to lifestyle. If you follow your mum’s example of living healthy and protecting your skin’s health your skin will age slower too. Healthy and varied diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, getting enough sleep, protecting yourself from the sun and living a toxin-free life matter much more than genetics.