Debunking the Myth: No, Skin Aging Is Not Purely Genetic

Many people believe that they will develop wrinkles and other signs of aging because they see the way time has impacted their parents’ and grandparents’ skin and appearance. While it’s true that genetics can play a role in the way we age, it’s not as big of a contributing factor as you may think. In fact, only about 10 percent of aging is due to genetic factors. That means you have more control over aging than you may realize!

With that in mind, what sorts of things can you do to maintain a more youthful look for as long as possible? From maintaining a healthy lifestyle to developing and sticking with a simple but consistent skincare routine to choosing skin rejuvenating non-surgical treatments, Chicago’s Whole Beauty® Institute explains the options available for anyone who wants to claim that 90 percent. All of these strategies can go a long way in helping you to achieve great skin well into the future!

Stay Out of the Sun

Ultraviolet light is especially harsh on the skin, damaging everything from collagen to DNA.

The U.S. EPA reports that up to 90 percent of all cosmetic changes to the skin—which are typically blamed on aging—are actually the fault of ultraviolet radiation.

Happily, there are many steps you can take to guard yourself against this damage. First, you can simply stay out of direct exposure to the sun for extended periods of time, especially during peak radiation hours from late morning to early evening. When outside, be sure to block the sun’s UV rays with a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen and opt for the shade when possible. It is important that your sunscreen contains zinc and titanium dioxide. Wearing clothing and hats that cover bare skin with tightly woven material, and using accessories like parasols also guard against unwanted exposure.

Also, be sure to wear sunscreen whenever you step outdoors—and even if you’re inside, but near a window. The same goes for driving in a vehicle, as UV radiation can penetrate the glass and damage your skin. Application of sunscreen is also important on days that are cloudy or overcast.

Apply sunscreen about half an hour before expected sun exposure to give it time to properly absorb into the skin. It is also very important to re-apply the sunscreen periodically. Roughly every two hours is a good timeframe, but it should be more often if water or sweat are washing it off.

Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol

Studies have shown that the more a person smokes tobacco products, the greater their risk of developing premature signs of aging. Most notably, smoking hastens the breakdown of collagen in the skin, which leads to skin laxity and sagging. The early signs of this change can begin to develop in a person’s 20s or 30s. By the time a habitual smoker is in their 40s, they can have as many facial wrinkles as a non-smoker in their 60s. Drinking can have a similar effect, with studies indicating that alcohol may damage DNA to the point that signs of aging are accelerated.

You Are What You Eat

Quite literally, we are what we eat. The food we consume can either support or suppress our overall health.  Poor nutrition can lead to tiredness, stress, weight-gain, breakouts, and even more chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Avoid processed foods and foods high in saturated fats, sugars, and sodium. Try to eat foods rich in antioxidants, leafy greens, whole grains and healthy proteins. Being well-hydrated is also essential for health. Drink 8 to 12 cups of water daily.

Just remember, when we nourish ourselves well the long-term benefits reward us from the inside out–physiologically and aesthetically.

Move It!

In addition to a healthy diet, healthy physical habits also play an important role in our physical and mental health. Any movement is good movement. Walking, running, dancing–whatever it may be–get up and move it! Before you know it, you’ll be smiling and that’s the most beautiful accessory there is!

A Simple Skincare Routine

Beyond avoiding damaging lifestyle habits, there are positive things people can do to help their skin. A simple two-step skincare regimen in the morning and evening that consists of a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type, followed by a moisturizer will help keep your skin free of excess oil and dirt that can lead to breakouts and protect the skin barrier. Additional skincare products, based on individualized concerns, can be added to address needs related to acne-prone skin, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, wrinkles, and more.

Finally, a focused team of aesthetic professionals can make personalized suggestions of treatments to help correct concerns to restore and rejuvenate the skin to a healthy and glowing complexion, followed by a maintenance program for continued and long-lasting results.

Working with a trusted and experienced credentialed provider can be incredibly helpful when it comes to maintaining a more youthful look and achieving your aesthetic goals.

You are in control of your own skincare destiny! Take matters into your own hands! For advice about skin care and more, contact Chicago’s Whole Beauty® Institute by calling 312-751-2112 (Chicago Gold Coast Office) or 847-446-7562 (North Shore (Winnetka) Office). You can also submit a contact form online.