A doctor has warned that our daily routines, from sleeping habits to drinking methods, could be unwittingly speeding up the ageing process. Ageing, an inevitable part of life, may be exacerbated by 10 everyday practices.

However, these ageing accelerators can be held at bay with some simple changes. Dr Kate Jameson from Youth Lab has shared a series of straightforward tips that Britons can adopt to maintain their youthful glow.

She warns: “Don’t let these sneaky age-accelerators catch you off guard.”

Sleeping position

When it comes to sleeping positions, Dr Kate recommends sleeping on your back to avoid wrinkles and suggests using silk pillowcases to reduce skin friction.

Slumbering on your front or side could be adding years to the face, warns the doctor. She says that this results in your face being scrunched up against the pillow, giving rise to permanent sleep indentations and wrinkles.

Not using sunscreen

Dr Kate said even on cloudy days, Brits should apply sunscreen.  “UV rays penetrate clouds and cause skin damage every day,” she advised. 

She particularly recommends applying SPF 30 sunscreen daily to protect against premature ageing.

Using straws

Be it plastic, paper, or metallic, regular use of straws could lead to fine lines encircling the mouth, akin to smoking effects, cautions Dr Kate. The remedy to this commonplace practice is to simply to drink straight from your cup.

Screen time

Blue light from modern gadgets like computers, tablets and phones can wreak havoc on your skin and eyes, leading to premature ageing. To combat this, taking regular breaks to rest your eyes or donning blue light-blocking glasses for protection is advised by the doctor.

Skipping skincare

When it comes to skincare, many focus solely on their face, neglecting other age-revealing areas such as the neck and hands. Dr Kate suggests a full-body approach to skincare, emphasising the importance of daily moisturising and sunscreen application to maintain youthful skin.

Diet

Dr Kate has issued a warning about the impact diet can have on skin. She said: “A high-sugar diet can lead to glycation, a process that damages collagen and elastin, causing saggy skin and wrinkles.” She recommends cutting down on sugar and incorporating more antioxidants into your diet for better health and appearance.

Dental hygiene

Dental health is also a key factor in maintaining a youthful appearance, according to Dr Jameson. “Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and tooth loss, which can make your face appear sunken and older,” she said. Regular brushing and flossing are essential for preserving both your smile and the youthfulness of your skin.

Hot water

Dr Kate also highlights the impact of hot water on ageing skin, suggesting that it’s best to avoid using excessively hot water when bathing or washing your face to prevent drying out the skin.

Hot showers and face washes might seem relaxing, but they can strip away natural oils from the skin, leading to dryness and visible signs of ageing. She advises opting for lukewarm water or finishing with a cold rinse to constrict facial pores and boost body circulation.

Lastly, she touches on the importance of managing stress and prioritising self-care to fend off the effects of ageing.