It was Coco Chanel who once said: “Nature gives you the face you have at twenty. Life shapes the face you have at thirty. But at fifty you get the face you deserve.” Harsh words from the French couturier, but completely justified. Without thinking, there are numerous lifestyle issues which are actually harmful to our skin, instead of enhancing our beauty. There a plethora of lotions and potions out there, but actually, a simple dose of skin awareness could reverse your fortunes. Intrigued? Read on for the five main culprits of ageing skin:

1. A Damaging Skincare Routine

Skin that is constantly exposed, without protection, to sunlight and UVA and UVB rays can look older for a number of reasons. The sun can cause the skin to become leathery and dry in appearance and in turn make it more wrinkled, saggy and generally appear older. Sunburn and tanning are actually signs of damaged skin and should be totally avoided. Do not use sun beds if you want to protect your skin. Rain and wind can be just as harsh.

It is recommended that you wear sunscreen or a moisturiser with a sun-protection factor of at least 15 every day: come rain or shine. It is also important to always take make-up off at night. Although a good skincare and cleansing routine is a must, don’t use too many products and don’t wash your face too often, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and dry it out. Don’t neglect your hands and neck, as these can display the first signs of ageing.

2. Smoking

A smoker’s skin will age faster than that of a non-smoker. The action of smoking causes wrinkles around the mouth and nicotine can deplete the amount of vitamin C in one’s body. Cutting down or quitting completely will improve the look and feel of your skin almost immediately. The same is true of spending time with smokers. Keep away from other people’s cigarette smoke wherever possible.

3. An Unhealthy Diet

Drinking too much alcohol over a period of time can cause broken veins and blood vessels on the skin’s surface, both of which are irreversible and terribly ageing. Cut down on alcohol and instead drink plenty of water, which helps to plump out the skin and keep it beautifully clear, making you look younger and feel great. Eating a balanced diet, including your five-a-day quota of fruit and vegetables, means you will keep your levels of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants topped up. Your skin will be brighter and clearer.

4. Lack of Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep makes a huge difference to the way you look and feel. Not getting enough sleep results in tired skin and dark circles and bags under the eyes. Try to get at least eight hours a night and stick to a routine which involves going to bed and waking at the same time each day – even at the weekend. Good, supportive and comfortable mattresses perhaps paired with stylish wooden bed frames are a good investment.

5. Letting Stress Beat You

Too much stress can mean you sleep badly, eat the wrong foods and drink too much alcohol. Stress and worry (as well as spending too much time on the computer or watching TV) can make you frown more, which in turn leads to ‘worry lines’ on the forehead. Try to smile more, relax your facial muscles and perhaps take up yoga, sport or meditation to help you unwind.

This post was written by Leyla, a blogger currently writing about health and beauty issues. On this occasion she is supporting Archers Sleep Centre, one of the largest bed superstores in the UK, committed to advising and supplying customers with the right bed for a good night’s sleep.