Introduction: Small habits, big impact on aging
AGING is inevitable, but certain everyday behaviors can speed up the signs of aging more than you might expect. From the water you shower in to the screens you scroll on at night, lifestyle choices subtly influence skin health, inflammation, and collagen integrity. Dermatology expert Dr. Brendan Khong explains that our environment, habits, and even our calm, daily routines play a role in how old we look—and how our skin actually ages over time.
1) Hot showers and the skin’s moisture barrier
Washing with very hot water can strip natural oils from the skin and weaken the barrier, leading to dehydration and more noticeable fine lines. Tepid water preserves hydration, reduces TEWL (transepidermal water loss), and minimizes redness. The practical tip: wash with lukewarm water and moisturize immediately after stepping out of the shower while the skin is still damp.
2) Chewing gum and facial muscle changes
Frequent gum chewing contracts key facial muscles, potentially enlarging the masseter and altering the lower face’s contour. Over time, these contractions can contribute to a less youthful, broader jawline and even lines around the lips from repeated muscle use. If you’re aiming for a more V-shaped look, consider limiting continuous gum chewing and practice relaxation breaks for your jaw muscles.
3) Sunglasses: an anti-ageing essential
Sunglasses are not just style; they’re a reliable anti-ageing tool. Squinting in bright light creates dynamic wrinkles that can settle into static lines. Choose sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection and ample coverage to prevent squinting and protect the eye area over time.
4) SPF in winter matters
UV exposure isn’t seasonal. UVA radiation penetrates glass and clouds year-round, contributing to visible aging. Apply sunscreen daily, even in winter, using enough product to cover the face and neck. Regular usage helps prevent cumulative damage that accelerates aging.
5) Sugary snacks and skin glycation
High-sugar foods increase glycation, where sugar binds to collagen and elastin, weakening the skin’s firmness. Reducing sugary drinks and snacks supports better skin elasticity, while replacing them with water, nuts, berries, and fiber-rich snacks helps maintain a youthful appearance over time.
6) Sleeping in makeup
Skipping a proper cleanse after a long day traps pollutants and makeup, increasing oxidative stress and dullness. A double cleanse — oil-based followed by a gentle water-based wash — supports overnight skin renewal and helps maintain a brighter, firmer complexion.
7) Dooms scrolling and blue light
Blue light exposure from screens may contribute to oxidative stress and collagen breakdown, compounded by late bedtimes. Reducing late-night scrolling and creating a screen-free wind-down can protect sleep quality and skin health, mitigating aging signals such as dullness and uneven pigmentation.
8) Straws and lip lines
Frequent sipping through a straw can train the orbicularis oris muscles to form fine lines around the mouth. If you want to minimize “smoker’s lines” or barcode lines, opt for wide-mouth bottles that let you drink without pursing the lips.
9) Sleeping position and facial crease formation
Side or stomach sleeping can press the face into pillows, creating sleep lines that may become permanent over time. Sleeping on your back reduces facial pressure and helps preserve skin’s youthful suppleness. If back-sleeping isn’t easy, consider a memory-foam pillow or a silk pillowcase to minimize traction on the skin.
Conclusion: Small lifestyle changes, lasting results
These everyday habits illustrate how lifestyle choices intersect with skin biology. While genetics set the baseline, external factors like heat exposure, hydration, sleep, and even how we sip drinks can influence inflammation, collagen integrity, and pigmentation. By adjusting these nine habits, you can slow the visible signs of aging and support healthier, more resilient skin over time.
