Sun exposure, smoking, lack of sleep, diet—all of these factors and more contribute to premature aging. To combat these harmful effects and decrease noticeable skin damage in your later years, start following proper skin care routines in your 20s. Renowned skin surgeon Lauren A. Daman, MD, PC, of Hartford, CT, recommends using anti-aging skin care products from your 20s onward to combat natural or intrinsic aging. Such products also fight external aging factors including sun exposure.

Here are several reasons you should consider using anti-aging products in your 20s:

• Environmental Damage: Young skin is susceptible to environmental damage, also known as external aging. UVA and UVB rays are among the worst offenders, as they damage elastin fibers—what keeps skin supple. Broken-down elastin causes skin to sag, wrinkle, and tear easily. Other environmental damage includes smoking and pollutant exposure.

• Less Collagen, Elastin, & Oil: Skin starts producing 1% less collagen every year after the age of 20. This makes it thinner and more fragile. Reduced oil and sweat gland function and reduced elastin production also result in natural skin aging. Collagen, elastin, and oil/sweat gland levels continue to break down as you enter your 30s, resulting in drier skin more prone to lines and wrinkles.

• Prevention: Your Hartford skin surgeon emphasizes that it is easier to prevent a line than correct an existing one. You may not be able to see facial lines in your 20s, but that doesn’t mean these microscopic scars are not building up. Using sunscreen and recommended anti-aging products daily, eating an antioxidant-rich diet, getting plenty of sleep and exercise, and avoiding tobacco use are among the best practices for maintaining a youthful glow.

Lauren A. Daman, MD, PC, offers a range of anti-aging services, including microdermabrasion, chemical face peels, age spot treatments, and Botox® among others. Discuss your skin care needs with this celebrated skin surgeon to devise a treatment plan to keep you looking fresh, vibrant, and wrinkle-free. To schedule an appointment or learn more about their services, call (860) 246-3533 or visit the website.