Smoking not only has a negative impact on internal organs, such as the heart and lungs, but on the skin as well. In fact, those who smoke on a regular basis can do a significant amount of damage to their skin in a relatively short period of time. Following are three of the many ways in which smoking ruins the skin and thus decreases one's natural beauty.
Wrinkles
Wrinkles are caused by a myriad of factors, but it is a well-known fact that smokers have more wrinkles (and get wrinkles at an earlier age) than non-smokers. The reason for this is that smoking damages collagen and elastin and narrows blood vessels found in the outer layer of the skin, thus leaving the skin prone to sagging and the formation of wrinkles. Additionally, pursing the lips to inhale smoke and squinting the eyes to keep smoke out causes deep lines to appear around the mouth and eyes.
Poor Skin Tone
Poor skin tone is a common problem among smokers. Some smokers become quite pale in appearance, while others develop uneven skin tone. Veteran smokers tend to have leathery skin with a yellowish tinge. These problems are not commonly found among non-smokers.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis causes thick, scaly patches to appear on or near the knees, feet, elbows, scalp and/or hands. These patches can be white, red or silver in color and smokers are more vulnerable to them than non-smokers. Psoriasis is not only uncomfortable but is a chronic condition that is not easy to cure, especially if one continues to smoke on a regular basis.
Undoing the Damage
Thankfully, the damage outlined above can be undone by anyone who is willing to make the effort to quit smoking. Even those who gradually stop nicotine intake will see a difference as the body once again creates elastin and collagen, thus enabling the skin to regain its youthful appearance. A person who is quitting smoking will probably also want to use skin care products that contain collagen and/or antioxidants, as these help the skin to fix itself faster than would have otherwise been possible.
On the other hand, it does take time for the skin to come back to full health on its own. For this reason, long-term smokers may want to consider seeing a facelift surgeon or Botox doctor. Getting cosmetic treatment can immediately undo the damage caused by years or even decades of smoking and thus give a person the incentive he or she needs to let go of the habit permanently.
Naturally, there are many cosmetic surgeons and Botox doctors Houston citizens can see, but Dr. Patt is one of the best. A smoker will want to see such a medical professional who has experience treating wrinkled skin and who offers not only various treatment options but also personalized care and advice. A Dr. Patt will not only provide adequate treatment, but also explain what each form of treatment entails, how it works and how one can avoid negative side effects. He encourages all his patients to seek a healthy lifestyle, and is happy to advise any patient on the best procedures for a facelift, Botox injections and every other treatment he provides.
