It is known that both nature and nurture contribute to our individual aging process, but how much each factor affects our appearance is difficult to define. In the case of identical twins who share the same genetic makeup, however, we have a unique opportunity to compare the impact of specific lifestyle choices.
A recent study took advantage of a large gathering of twins at a “Twins Days” festival in Ohio, comparing the faces of twins who led relatively similar lifestyles except for one factor: one smoked, the other did not. Results from a photo comparison clearly support the theory that smoking accelerates the aging progress.
In this study, professional portraits of identical twins were taken and positioned side by side. In a blind comparison, judges analyzed and graded the twins’ facial features using a standard guide. The twins were given a questionnaire to assess lifestyle choices such as sunscreen use, stress, and alcohol consumption, each of which is known to impact the aging process. Where lifestyle choices were similar, it was very clear that smoking affects the face in a negative way.
Dr. Bahman Guyuron, from Case Western Reserve University, explains that when one smokes, collagen production is reduced. Collagen provides structure to the skin, and when degradation occurs, we see signs of premature aging, including sagging and wrinkling. Smoking also speeds up natural collagen breakdown, causing an individual to look older than he or she would otherwise. This occurs mostly in the mid-to-lower face, but the upper and lower eyelid areas can be affected as well.
The best way to avoid age-related changes from smoking is to abstain completely. If you are a smoker, it is never too late to improve your prospects: quitting now will help reduce further premature aging. Seek help from your physician if you have been unable to stop smoking on your own.
If you are concerned about premature aging, we would be happy to tell you about safe, effective ways we can treat areas where collagen production has slowed and skin is showing signs of aging. Because we want you to get the most out of any treatment, we will also encourage you to do your part by making healthy lifestyle choices and wearing a full-spectrum sunscreen.
Patti Flint, M.D., P.C. is a board certified plastic surgeon that strives to ensure that all of her patients are thoroughly educated about the plastic surgery procedures they desire so that they can make a confident, well-informed decision. She is a devoted and experienced professional whose focus is to help her clients feel more beautiful and confident by delivering natural results. Learn more about Dr. Flint and read Dr. Flint’s reviews.
Tags: sunscreen protection, Twin Days, twins who smoke, aging from smoking, collagen production, premature aging, sagging skin, wrinkled skinCategorized in: Announcements/News
