Another subject under study shows that there is probably a link between alcohol consumption and aging. Alcoholics show signs of increased aging, but study results seem to indicate that it is more a matter of how your body processes alcohol rather than if you drink or not. Alcohol can leave toxic by-products in the tissues that can speed up aging. It can also weaken capillary walls and cause blotchiness. In addition, alcohol draws water out of the tissues and leaves the skin dull and  dehydrated. However, moderate intake is perfectly okay and may even be beneficial.

The skin ages due to the deterioration of the elastic tissues (composed of elastin and collagen). In most cases, the skin becomes dry/dehydrated, age spots occur and some people notice small broken capillaries. Premature aging can be prevented to some extent by a daily skin care program, and well balanced diet and avoiding things that are known to speed the aging process. (See Exercise)

Weight Gains/Losses 
Frequent weight gains and losses can also dramatically affect the elasticity of the skin. When the weight is gained, the skin stretches to accommodate the excess weight.   When a lot of weight is lost, quickly, the skin doesn't have time to accommodate the changing contours and sagging and premature wrinkling can occur.  Gradual weight loss should not impact the skin, although a reduced calorie diet can cause the skin to look dull and lifeless unless the diet is well balanced. 

Next to sun exposure, smoking is the highest factor in wrinkling. Smokers have more wrinkles than people who don't smoke. Cigarette smoke releases free radicals that break down the vitamin C in the skin and contribute to premature wrinkling. Nicotine also causes small blood vessels and capillaries to contract, diminishing circulation and depriving the skin of nutrients. 

Ongoing research is beginning to show a link between a relatively nutritious diet and improved skin tone. It has been shown that people suffering from malnutrition show obvious signs of increased aging because of vitamin deficiencies but what extent diet plays a role in the overall aging process has yet to be determined (but it can't hurt to eat sensibly). There is unanimous agreement that drinking 8 glasses of water per day improves the beauty of your skin. 

Air pollution can be very harmful to the skin. Areas of your body that are protected show less signs of aging than those that are exposed to the pollutants in the air. The best ways to fight against the effects of pollution are to be sure and use a safe soap morning and night to remove dirt and irritants from the surface of the skin and to protect the skin by using a moisturizer every day. Women can also use foundation which provides additional protection from the elements. There is also growing evidence to support the theory that high pollution levels increase ultraviolet rays which cause skin cancer in relatively young people.

The sun is one of the biggest culprits in the aging process. It speeds the aging process by breaking down the elastin and collagen in the skin. The results of sun damage include fine lines, brown spots and decreased elasticity and less softness in the skin's texture. The best defense against the sun is a regular sunscreen for everyday use and a high level sunscreen when you have to be outside. (Be sure and use it on your neck and hands too.) 

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