4 Daily Habits That Can Trigger Premature Ageing — Quit Them Now to Preserve Your Youthful Glow

Everyone desires to look youthful and radiant for as long as possible. People follow countless skincare routines and treatments, yet early signs of ageing often appear much sooner than expected. According to experts, four everyday habits may be silently accelerating the ageing process—and giving your face premature lines and wrinkles. These habits need to be stopped in time if you want to preserve your natural beauty.

Modern Lifestyle Increasing Premature Ageing

Today’s fast-paced lifestyle has made it increasingly difficult for people to remain healthy and active even up to 90–100 years of age. Health specialists warn that poor diet, stress, lack of sleep, and minimal physical activity are key contributors that trigger early ageing. This phenomenon, known as premature ageing, causes visible signs like fine lines, dull skin, and sagging even before one reaches 50.

What Research Says

According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, nearly 40% of young adults worldwide are experiencing ageing symptoms earlier than normal due to chronic stress, irregular sleep patterns, and poor dietary choices. High sugar intake and processed foods increase oxidative stress in the body, weakening skin cells and causing early wrinkles.

Here are the four harmful habits that may be ageing your face faster than you realize:

1. Lack of Sleep

Quality sleep is essential for overall health. Studies suggest that adults need 7 to 9 hours of deep sleep every night. According to the National Sleep Foundation, insufficient sleep raises cortisol levels in the body—a stress hormone that damages skin cells. This accelerates the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles, and dullness.

2. Excessive Sugar and Junk Food

Healthy, glowing skin largely depends on good nutrition. Processed foods and sugary snacks are among the biggest enemies of youthful skin. A Harvard Health report highlights that high sugar intake increases glycation— a process that makes the skin stiff, dry, and prone to wrinkles. This speeds up premature ageing significantly.

3. Lack of Physical Activity

Sedentary lifestyles have become extremely common, especially for those working long hours in front of screens. Health experts warn that insufficient physical activity causes muscle weakness and reduces blood circulation, making the body and face appear older than they are.

4. High Stress Levels

Chronic stress is another major contributor to premature ageing. Excessive stress disrupts hormone balance and raises cortisol levels, which gradually leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and reduced skin elasticity.

How to Prevent Premature Wrinkles

Experts recommend simple lifestyle changes to slow down early ageing:

• Engage in at least 30 minutes of daily walking or physical activity.
• Include nutritious, antioxidant-rich foods in your diet; reduce sugar and avoid junk food.
• Ensure 7–9 hours of adequate sleep every night to allow the body to repair and rejuvenate.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance. Navbharat Times does not take responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or effects of the information provided.