Premature aging doesn’t just come from genetics—it’s often the result of everyday habits we don’t even realize are affecting our skin and body.
If you’ve noticed more wrinkles, dullness, or a loss of firmness lately, you might want to take a closer look at these five common lifestyle factors. The good news is that each one is fixable!
1. Too Much Sugar & Alcohol
I love a glass of wine and a slice of Key Lime Pie—but excess sugar and alcohol are two of the biggest contributors to premature aging. They trigger inflammation and break down collagen, which leads to wrinkles, puffiness, and dull skin.
Try this:
Cut back just a little, and notice how quickly your skin perks up. You don’t have to be perfect—just more mindful.
2. Not Lifting Weights
If you’re not strength training in your 40s and beyond, your skin and body are aging faster than they need to. Lifting weights improves muscle tone, keeps skin firm, supports hormone balance, and even boosts your metabolism.
Start here:
Try the StrongLifts 5x5 program. It’s beginner-friendly and helps you build strength gradually without burnout.
3. Dehydration
Most of us don’t drink enough water throughout the day, and that lack of hydration shows up on our skin fast. My kids recently turned me onto an app that is kinda fun to use to track water.
Quick fix:
Use a fun app like Water Llama to track your intake.
4. Too Much Sun Exposure
We all know the sun contributes to aging—but it’s not about avoiding it completely. Stanford researcher and popular podcaster, Dr. Andrew Huberman, recommends some sun exposure each day for mood and hormone health. He recommends avoiding prolonged direct exposure.
My strategy:
I get out for daily walks in the sunshine, but always wear a hat or cover up if I’ll be out for a while. And yes—a new list of clean sunscreen recommendations is coming soon!
5. Poor Sleep & High Stress
Sleep and stress management are underrated beauty secrets. Lack of sleep leads to dull skin, tired eyes, and even more sugar cravings. Stress can flood your body with cortisol, which breaks down collagen and accelerates aging.
Try this:
Prioritize your wind-down routine. Go to bed earlier, take a walk when you’re stressed, or dance it out to your favorite song. I don't know about you, but nothing is more beautiful than a joyful woman!
Aging Is Natural—Premature Aging Doesn’t Have to Be
So if you read the list above and you are nodding your head about any of the “super agers” above, why not try to develop a new habit this spring to change it? You don't have to change everything all at once. In fact, I would discourage that! Simply try to incorporate one new habit into your routine.
Want skincare that works with your body to support healthy aging?
Explore our clean skincare for women over 40 »