Ever catch yourself wondering how some people seem to defy the years and keep that youthful energy and glow?
I definitely have – and what I’ve learned is that staying youthful often has more to do with avoiding certain habits than with what we add to our routines.
In fact, some common behaviors we barely think about can subtly speed up the aging process, impacting our skin, energy, and overall vibrancy.
Today, we’ll explore seven such behaviors that could be holding you back from looking and feeling years younger.
Making these shifts has made a real difference for me—and it just might do the same for you.
Let’s dive in!
1) Late nights and lack of sleep
Put simply, sleep is a big deal when it comes to looking younger. It’s during sleep that your body repairs itself, including your skin.
Many of us are guilty of late nights, whether it’s due to work, binge-watching our favorite shows, or scrolling through social media. But this habit can make us look far older than we actually are.
As noted by experts, a lack of sleep leads to dark circles, more wrinkles, and an overall tired appearance.
Try to aim for at least 7-9 hours each night and keep a regular sleep schedule. It’s not just about the quantity but also the quality of sleep you’re getting.
It’s called beauty sleep for a reason!
2) Dealing with constant stress and worry
We all face stress in our lives, but how we handle it can significantly impact our appearance.
Speaking from personal experience, I’ve seen how constant worry and stress can add years to one’s face.
I used to work in a high-pressure job, constantly meeting deadlines and juggling multiple tasks. Over time, I noticed I was developing deep lines on my forehead and around my mouth. I looked tired, even when I wasn’t.
Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can break down collagen in the skin, leading to wrinkles and sagging.
When I decided to manage my stress better, through regular exercise and mindfulness techniques like meditation, not only did I feel better mentally and emotionally, but my skin started looking better too!
If you’re feeling stressed out, consider finding healthy ways to unwind and relax. You’ll be surprised at how much younger you’ll start looking when you let go of the worry lines!
3) Neglecting sun protection
Are you skipping sunscreen because you think you’re not spending much time outdoors or it’s not very sunny where you live?
Think again.
According to the folks at Science Direct, “Sun exposure is the major cause of accelerated skin aging”. That’s because UV rays from the sun can cause wrinkles, and sun spots and even reduce the elasticity of our skin.
The solution? Well, it’s pretty simple.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days. And it’s not just your face that needs protection — don’t forget your neck, hands, and any other exposed skin.
Investing in a good sun hat and pair of sunglasses can also go a long way in protecting your skin from the harsh rays of the sun.
4) Ignoring self-care
In our busy lives, we often put ourselves last. We take care of everyone and everything else, and by the end of the day, we’re too tired to do anything for ourselves.
But ignoring self-care can take a toll on our appearance.
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and spa days. It’s about taking time to nourish your body, mind, and soul. It’s about healthy eating, regular exercise, staying hydrated, and taking time to relax and unwind.
When you neglect self-care, it shows on your face. You might look tired, stressed, or simply worn out.
Give yourself permission to put yourself first sometimes. The more you take care of yourself, the more it will reflect on your face. You’ll not only feel better inside but also start looking younger on the outside.
5) Skipping that workout
As Dr. Linda Fried, dean of Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, puts it, “Exercise is the closest thing we’ve found to a magic pill for combating the effects of aging.”
When we skip out on exercise, we miss a host of age-defying benefits. Exercise improves blood circulation, which in turn helps nourish skin cells and keeps them vibrant.
It is also a stress reliever, which as we’ve discussed can make us look older.
Personally, I’ve found that even a quick 20-minute workout can lift my energy, brighten my skin, and make me feel younger and more alive.
Next time you’re tempted to skip a workout, remember that it’s not just for your health—it’s for your glow!
6) Overindulging in sugary treats
As tempting as it is to indulge in sugary snacks, what we eat shows up on our skin.
As noted by the folks at Westlake Dermatology, “Over-consumption of sugar can both accelerate the aging process and either cause or contribute to a host of skin health issues.”
Instead of reaching for candy or soda, try satisfying your sweet tooth with fresh fruit, which has natural sugars and skin-friendly antioxidants.
A little moderation with sugar can go a long way in keeping your skin looking fresh and youthful!
7) Smoking
You probably expected this one, right?
If you’re serious about looking younger, quitting smoking is possibly the single most effective step you can take.
As noted by Healthline, “The toxins in tobacco can decrease blood flow to skin cells, reduce moisture in the dermis, and break down collagen and elastin, causing wrinkles.”
Quitting smoking can be challenging, but the benefits to your appearance (and your health) are well worth it.
Reflecting on the mirror of self-care
There you have it—seven simple but powerful shifts that can help you look and feel years younger.
Aging is natural, but that doesn’t mean we can’t approach it in a way that keeps us vibrant, healthy, and full of energy.
If you’re ready to say goodbye to these habits, remember that change doesn’t have to happen overnight. Start small, tackle one habit at a time, and watch as these little changes add up to big results!
