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Prematurely aging skin refers to the unnatural acceleration of the natural aging process and is induced by exposure to daylight (90% of premature aging is caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun) and lifestyle choices (smoking, stress, or diet). These factors trigger a slowing of collagen production and a breakdown in elastin, reducing "turgor" (the snap back into place reaction when skin has been pulled). The skin cell turnover process slows and, and dead skin cells shed off our skins surface at a slower rate. Other contributors to the quickening of the natural aging process are sleeping positions, repetitive facial expressions and gravity.
Premature aging isn't natural. So what is natural? Healthy aging- also known as intrinsic aging, or the normal process of physical change over time that is more about your genetics than your lifestyle. This process begins in are mid 20s, but, unlike premature aging induced by external factors, does not begin to show on our faces until decades later .

There a five factors which cause premature aging.

The Sun
Responsible for a litany of skin issues and more importantly skin cancer. Repeated ultraviolet exposure breaks down collagen, impairs skin's ability to repair itself, and attacks our elastin. The damage is seen through deep wrinkles, age spots, spider veins, a rough blotchy complexion and a "leathery" look

Smoking
Smokers are more likely than non-smokers to develop wrinkled, leathery skin, as well as a yellowish hue in their complexions. And even if you aren't a smoker being around a smoker can still cause damage to your skin.

Lack of Exercise/Poor diet
Lack of exercise can contribute to prematurely aging skin, as exercise keeps muscle tone and stimulates blood flow.
A poor diet leads to a lack of nutrition for the cells and possible exposure to chemicals and preservatives. Fried and burnt food can also cause oxidation (free radicals from vitamins help counteract oxidation), leading to weaker cell structure.

Lack of Sleep/Stress
Skin is the first place to be affected by the lack of sleep- the immediate effects of exhaustion are represented through dark circles under the eyes and sagging skin.
Stress is inevitable, just like aging, but it also contributes to premature aging. Frowning, furrowing our brows and putting our hands on our face and pulling it around help to impart permanent damage. Stress also results in heightened adrenal activity, which over time can lead to impaired health.

Exposure to the Elements
Cold winds and low temperatures can try out skin, depriving it of balanced levels of sebum (oil) that keep skin lubricated . Without these oils, skin becomes dry, and is more prone to premature aging because of a lack or protective oils .
This includes forced air heating as well. Warm, dry air acts like a giant sponge, soaking up moisture from everything it touches.

Dermalogica provides the Daylight Defence system to protect against the sun and the AGE Smart system to help fight the biological triggers of aging. An effective prematurely-aging skin treatment will include exfoliation, hydration and vitamins to help smooth skin, stimulate collagen production and increase the skin's natural protective barrier. It is imperative to recognise that the success of skin treatments will be heavily influenced by the regimen and the wearing of sunscreen for anytime the skin is exposed to daylight.