6 Surprising Habits That Cause Wrinkles

Most people are aware that lifestyle choices like smoking and excessive sun exposure can wreak havoc on skin and cause wrinkles. However, there are several surprising habits that can worsen existing wrinkles or even create entirely new lines. Here’s a closer look at six things you could be doing that you may have never suspected could age your skin.

1. Eating junk food

Everyone knows that bad eating habits can lead to weight gain, disrupt your sleep or make you irritable, but did you know they can also create wrinkles? Gastroenterologist Dr. Roshini Rajapaksa explains that excessive sugar consumption and eating high-glycemic foods can easily causes healthy proteins in the skin to stiffen and malform. To avoid this loss of facial elasticity and the wrinkles that may result, she encourages people to ease up on eating refined sugars and simple carbs (e.g. white breads, baked goods and pastries). Other studies have also found that people who eat large amounts of meat and dairy foods typically have more skin damage than people who eat more plant-based foods, fish and olive oil.

2. Not getting enough exercise

Sitting is relaxing, and a well-deserved “treat” for on-the-go folks, right? Perhaps, but too much sitting can also disrupt the circulation needed to maintain heathy-looking skin. Experts say exercising for just 30 minutes twice a week contributes has anti-aging effects. It’s a win-win habit! Not only does exercise keep excess pounds at bay and give you more energy, but it can also keep your complexion looking great.

Also See: How To Get Rid Of Wrinkles Around Mouth And Chin Naturally

3. Repetitive facial movements

Habits like chewing gum, squinting at a computer screen or pursing your lip to pick at the inside of cheek with your teeth are all ways to basically guarantee the presence of wrinkles. They may seem like minor, harmless behaviors, but they ultimately create fine lines. Become more aware of your habits and change them accordingly. For example, if you’re often frowning while typing on your computer, make the font larger. If you always squint in sunlight, it’s time to purchase some sunglasses or at least wear a sun-shielding hat. Also, don’t sip from a straw routinely or pick at your cheek, since always pursing your lips can lead to fine lines around your mouth.

4. Applying makeup

Yes, makeup cause wrinkles. Just because your makeup may contain a moisturizer or anti-aging compounds doesn’t mean it’s keeping wrinkles at bay. It’s all in how you’re applying the makeup. If you’re stretching your skin as you put it on, don’t be surprised if you find wrinkles in that general area in the near future. For example, continually lifting and tugging at the skin around your eyes to achieve ideal eyeliner placement can weaken taut skin.

Must Read: 7 Makeup Products You Should Never Borrow or Share With Anyone

5. Not removing makeup

Foregoing the makeup removal process does more than keep your pores clogged with makeup residue. Forgetting to take off your makeup further traps in pollutants (from the environment as well as the makeup), hastening the aging process. Collagen and elastin are compromised, making you more susceptible to lines and wrinkles. Take a few extra minutes at the end of the day to gently clean your face before getting some shut-eye.

6. Sleeping on your side

Finally, while most of us don’t find ourselves waking up in the position in which we fell asleep, dermatologists suggest at least doing our best to start off on our backs. Sleeping on your back is ideal for skin, since sleeping on your side puts unnecessary pressure on your face. In contrast, sleeping on your back alleviates this pressure and keeps your skin in better shape.

Although developing wrinkles is also a part of the natural aging process, the above habits are ones that can quicken their onset or deepen existing lines. For many people, wrinkles are not a welcome sign; in fact, billions of dollars are spent on preventative treatments every year. While these creams and serums can be helpful, paying attention to your personal habits – from what you eat to how you sleep – can save you money and keep you looking your best.