There are numerous external factors to which we are subject daily and which negatively affect the deterioration of our skin. To understand the reason for this harmful action, it is necessary to introduce the concept of free radicals. According to the theory that sees them as protagonists, free radicals are the main culprits of the skin ageing process.

These are waste materials deriving from cellular activity. In optimal conditions, an adequate presence of antioxidants counteracts their negative effects, blocking their action in the bud. When antioxidants begin to run low – due to age and an unhealthy lifestyle – free radicals proliferate, interfering with the physiological processes of the epidermis and triggering ageing.

The causes listed above play a leading role in favouring the aggregation of free radicals. Among the most popular remedies for the prevention of skin ageing, we find the use of antioxidants.

Prevent skin ageing with UV protection

The action of the sun is undoubtedly one of the most common causes of premature ageing. This is particularly noticeable in the comparison between skin with little exposure and skin subjected to regular photo exposure. From a study conducted at the Department of Dermatology of the University of Miami, it emerges that the sun’s rays represent the first exogenous source of skin deterioration.

UV rays cause inflammation, physical and immune system changes, and DNA damage. A determining factor not only on an aesthetic level, as it is responsible for potentially serious pathologies, such as to name one, melanoma.

For this reason, skin care must begin with careful and regular protection: applying a cream with a high protection factor before exposing yourself to sunlight is the cornerstone on which to base any type of skin care. A habit that has spread in recent times, following years in which indiscriminate and unprecedented tanning was king, causing irreparable damage to millions of women and men around the world.

Smoking, alcohol and nutrition

The same goes for smoking which, just like UV rays, is a direct cause of premature skin ageing. Various types of research have highlighted how time and smoke, associated, are triggers of the so-called elastosis, a degenerative process that involves the skin and can occur from a young age. For this reason – in addition to its much more serious and known health consequences – smoking should be banned from our daily habits.

In the same way – albeit to a slightly lesser extent – alcohol and nutrition negatively affect skin ageing and it is therefore recommended to adopt a lifestyle as regular as possible: limit excesses as much as possible, ban alcohol and unhealthy foods. at the basis of conscious and effective prevention.

Greater consumption of vegetables, olive oil and legumes has a protective effect on the skin. On the contrary, dairy products and sugary products would favour the damage and should therefore be reduced.

In summary, To prevent skin ageing it is good to follow a few fundamental rules:

Protect yourself from the sun’s rays, always apply a cream with UV filters.

• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Avoid smoking.
• Moisturise the skin by taking large quantities of water.
• Follow a healthy diet, rich in antioxidants (Omega-3 and Omega-6) and dishes of plant origin.
• Get adequate physical activity.
• Consistently use the most suitable products for skin care.