“Wrinkles tell stories… but some come before their time.”

Yes, skin ages. It's natural. But what's not natural is when it starts too early. If you notice wrinkles, spots, or sagging skin earlier than expected for your age... you're probably seeing signs of premature aging, and quite possibly, photoaging.

What is premature aging?

Premature aging is the accelerated deterioration of the skin caused by external factors. The main culprits?
- Sun exposure without protection
- Tobacco
- Lack of sleep
- Chronic stress
- Diets low in antioxidants
- Environmental pollution

The result: skin loses firmness, wrinkles, spots, dullness, and rough texture appear… much sooner than they should.

What about photoaging?

Photoaging is a form of premature aging caused specifically by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UVA rays, which penetrate deep into the dermis, degrade collagen and elastin. UVB rays, although less intense, damage cellular DNA. The consequence? Older, more vulnerable skin… and more prone to cancer.

It is estimated that up to 80% of visible signs of aging on facial skin are due to the sun — American Academy of Dermatology

How to recognize it?

Here's a quick guide to the signs of photoaging:
- Deep wrinkles: visible furrows on the forehead, eyes, lips
- Sun spots: brown spots or "lentigines" on the face and hands
- Sagging: loss of firmness, less defined contour
- Rough texture: skin that is rough or “cracked” to the touch
- Dull or yellowish tone: dull, lackluster skin
- Dilated vessels: spider veins on the cheeks or nose

How to prevent photoaging (and premature aging in general)

Here's your sun shield, updated for the 21st century:
✅ Sunscreen every day (yes, even when it's cloudy): minimum SPF 30, broad spectrum UVA/UVB
✅ Reapply every 2 hours if you are outdoors, sweating or getting wet
👒 Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-filtering sunglasses
🧴 Hydration with creams rich in antioxidants (vitamin C, E, niacinamide)
🥦 Diet rich in fruits and vegetables
🚫 Zero tobacco and less alcohol
💤 Sleep well and reduce chronic stress

In summary

✨ The sun is wonderful… but it also ages your skin if you don't take precautions.
💡 Photoaging is preventable, and premature aging can be delayed.
👀 And best of all: you can start today. Because taking care of yourself isn't just about aesthetics, it's about health.