Look younger and better simply by quitting smoking

One of the most important issues we are dealing with these days is how to slow down aging (it is impossible to stop aging) and how to eliminate/reduce the damage that has already been done to the skin. There are many reasons why we age faster: poor eating habits, lack of exercise, stress, excessive exposure to sun, lack of sleep, excessive alcohol consumption, and above all, smoking. In this article we will discuss how smoking, apart from many other deadly effects it has on the body, also speeds up aging and wrinkles.

Any type of smoking is bad for the body and the way it damages the skin is simple: it deprives the skin of nutrients making the skin looking dull, lifeless, and without a glow. Most heavy smokers over time develop wrinkles on their faces and since their lips and teeth also become ugly, they essentially look old and unattractive. Many women also experience a change in their voices that gives them a pitch that makes them talk like men.

While most of the damage happens from smoking, even secondary smoke can do a lot of damage. It is also believed that since smokers have heart problems along with clogged arteries and blood vessels, they do not get enough nutrients and oxygen in their skin. This results in premature aging of the skin in other parts of the body.

How to avoid smoking and/or cigarette smoke?

1. If you smoke, you must immediately seek help to reduce/stop smoking. While it is not easy to give up smoking, there are drugs available that can allow you to do that relatively easily. Plus, there are psychological programs to help you quit smoking. Research the options that are available and pick the one that you like. If it does not work, drop it and try another program.
2. If someone close to you smokes, avoid inhaling secondary smoke. While you must encourage this person to quit smoking, you can also stay away from this person while s/he smokes. Leave the room where someone is smoking and open the doors/windows if you have to be there. If your office still has smokers, ask your boss to make your building smoke-free or at least designate a non-smoking area so that you can move your desk to that area.
3. Always travel in smoke-free parts of a plane/train/bus.
4. Seek the help of a close friend or mentor while you are trying to quit smoking. You will have withdrawal symptoms and your will power at that point will be critical. Ask this person to support you and keep you motivated.
5. Finally, take care of your skin. You will be able to do a lot of things by yourself right in your home. Just buy high-quality products and use them at home if you cannot afford to have professional treatments in spas or by a dermatologists. Also make sure that you drink enough water and get at least 8 hours of good sleep. What will help you even more is if you develop good eating habits and exercise regularly. (Related article: Spa treatments at home)

Related article: Effective anti-aging products