When most of us think about aging skin, we picture the natural passage of time. But the truth is, many of the lines, spots, and dullness we see in the mirror come from daily habits—not just birthdays. The good news? Once you know the culprits, you can take simple steps to protect and refresh your skin. Here are five common habits that age your skin faster than you think, plus solutions to help you turn things around.

1. Skipping Sunscreen

Even on cloudy days, UV rays penetrate your skin and cause invisible damage that builds up over time. The result? Fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
What to do instead: Make sunscreen (SPF 30+) part of your morning routine, year-round. For extra repair, chemical peels at DrTen20 can help fade sun spots and restore an even tone.

2. Poor Hydration

When your body is dehydrated, your skin is the first place it shows — dull, dry, and less elastic. Chronic dehydration accelerates aging.
What to do instead: Aim for consistent water intake throughout the day, and consider IV hydration therapy at DrTen20 to restore balance, improve skin glow, and boost overall wellness.

3. Lack of Sleep

During sleep, your skin goes into repair mode. Without enough rest, collagen production slows, leading to dark circles, puffiness, and premature wrinkles.
What to do instead: Prioritize 7–9 hours of restful sleep. For tired-looking skin that needs an extra boost, injectables like Botox and fillers can soften lines and refresh your appearance.

4. Stress and Tension

Stress hormones break down collagen and elastin, making skin thinner and more prone to wrinkles. Constant facial tension (like frowning) creates expression lines that deepen over time.
What to do instead: Practice stress relief like meditation or exercise. If lines have already set in, Botox treatments at DrTen20 can relax those muscles and smooth the skin.

5. Harsh Skincare Habits

Over-exfoliating, skipping moisturizer, or using the wrong products strip away your skin’s natural barrier and speed up aging.
What to do instead: Choose gentle, medical-grade skincare tailored to your skin type. Our team at DrTen20 can recommend treatments and home care to rebuild and protect your skin barrier.

The Bottom Line

Aging skin isn’t just about genetics—it’s about choices. By breaking these five habits and taking a proactive approach, you can protect your skin and keep it looking youthful and vibrant for years to come.

✨ Ready to reverse the damage? Schedule your consultation at DrTen20 Med Spa in Dana Point today, and let’s create a custom plan for your skin.

“In the 40 years since its discovery, there are over 170,000 scientific publications on nitric oxide, making it one of the most studied molecules in the history of science. Scientists around the globe recognize how important this molecule is for the aging process. These discoveries were recognized as so important, a Nobel Prize was awarded to the scientists responsible for its discovery in 1998. Call us at 949.489.1317 or ask about it on your next visit!