Ageing can be either intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic ageing is determined by the individual’s genetic makeup. Extrinsic ageing is the result of external environmental factors. 80 – 90 percent of all causes of ageing fall into this category. These environment factors include the individual’s habits and lifestyle.
Environmental factors that cause ageing
Sun damage: The sun is the number one cause of ageing. Sun-damage causes premature ageing. In fact, what is commonly referred to as age spots often found on the hands and face are really sun spots.
Smoking starves the skin of oxygen, which keeps skin cells alive, not to mention the fact that tobacco smoke produces many different toxic chemicals that are harmful to the body and skin.
Drugs: Use of narcotics, prescription drugs and some medications can create free radical response to cause severe loss of collagen (strengthening tissue) and deterioration of skin tissue.
Pollution: Living in an unhealthy, polluted environment can cause a build up of toxins in the skin, impairing the immune system and preventing the skin’s ability to fight off disease and infection and causing the skin to age rapidly.
Diet and exercise: Not drinking enough water and a lack of exercise relates to not supplying enough nutrition and oxygen needed by the skin to keep skin cells alive for longer.
We have only highlighted a few but there are many other factors that can cause ageing, too numerous to mention. Follow me next week on ways to prevent premature ageing.
