Rapid Aging of the Skin

Your skin is the largest organ in your body. It protects your internal organs from injury and invasion, and it contributes to an attractive and youthful appearance when it is properly taken care of. Skin aging is a normal process, but certain addictions and neglect can cause rapid aging of the skin. Respect your body and treat your skin with care to help slow down the appearance of aging.

Significance

Young-looking skin is what many women strive to have, and there are an endless number of cosmetic companies peddling products --- expensive creams, lotions and exfoliants --- to lessen some of the signs of aging skin. The faster your skin ages, the sooner you may want to invest in these skincare products, but rapid aging of the skin need not take a toll on your appearance, or your savings when you know how to prevent it.

Identification

Rapid aging of the skin can manifest in the form of wrinkles, sagging skin, discoloration, dryness and dull, lifeless skin. Dry skin will look dehydrated and accentuate wrinkles. Sagging skin will no longer hug the bone structure, but will hang loosely, often in the jaw area. Skin discoloration will appear as large non-raised freckles some refer to as age spots or liver spots.

Considerations

Although rapid skin aging can be slowed down, the skin aging process cannot be prevented. Certain instigators can affect the rate of skin aging ----- instigators such as smoking, sun exposure and rough handling of the skin, including pulling and stretching. According to GirlsHealth.gov, smoking causes the formation of wrinkles. Although these factors play a part in rapid skin aging, genetics also play a part in how fast the skin ages.

Prevention/Solution

To avoid rapid skin aging, stop smoking if you smoke. Once you stop, your blood circulation will improve, which will help bring oxygen and important nutrients to your skin's cells. Also get a facial massage to enhance blood circulation. Facial massage stimulates the oil glands in your skin, and it tones your skin to prevent skin sagging. Stay out of the sun as much as you can and wear a sun block when you know you will be outdoors for more than 15 minutes. To prevent dry skin, avoid using drying soaps.

Warning

Do not mistake a dark spot on your skin for a symptom of rapid skin aging. According to the National Institute on Aging, out of all the kinds of cancers that occur in the United States, skin cancer is the one that occurs most often. If you notice any changes in a mole or birthmark, consult with a dermatologist.