9 Everyday Habits That Can Make Skin Look Older

How your skin looks over the years depends partly on genetics, but daily habits play a big part too. The good news is that most of these habits are easy to change, and small swaps add up. Here are nine common ones.

1. Skipping sunscreen

Sun exposure is one of the biggest reasons skin develops lines, uneven tone and dark spots over time. This happens on cloudy days, through car windows and on short trips outside too.

Swap: sunscreen every morning on face, neck, ears and hands, and reapply when you are outdoors for long.

2. Not getting enough sleep

Short nights often show up as a dull, tired-looking face and darker under-eyes.

Swap: a regular bedtime and 7 to 8 hours where you can. Put your phone away 30 minutes before bed.

3. Smoking

Smoking affects how skin looks, especially around the mouth and eyes, and is harmful to overall health.

Swap: talk to a doctor about support for quitting. It is one of the best things you can do for your skin and your health.

4. Not drinking enough water

When you are low on fluids, skin can look duller and feel tighter.

Swap: keep a water bottle with you and sip through the day.

5. Scrubbing too hard

Harsh scrubs, rough towels and very hot water can leave skin irritated and dry.

Swap: a gentle cleanser, lukewarm water and patting dry with a soft towel.

6. Skipping moisturiser

Dry skin makes fine lines look more noticeable.

Swap: a moisturiser that suits your skin type, morning and night, including on your neck.

7. Too much sugar and very processed food

A diet heavy in sweets and fried snacks and low in fresh food does not support an overall healthy look.

Swap: more vegetables, fruit, dal, nuts and seeds. Keep sweets for occasions rather than every day.

8. Sitting all day

Regular movement supports overall health, and many people notice a fresher, healthier flush after exercise.

Swap: a brisk walk most days, and short stretch breaks if you sit at a desk.

9. Constant stress with no breaks

Long periods of stress can affect sleep, food choices and how tired you look.

Swap: small daily breaks for breathing, a walk, music or time with people you like. A few minutes of gentle face massage at night can be a calming ritual too.

Bonus habits

• Sleeping in makeup. Always cleanse before bed.
• Squinting without sunglasses in bright light.
• Looking down at your phone for hours. Lift it to eye level when you can.

Start with two

You do not need to change everything at once. Pick two habits from this list, such as daily sunscreen and an earlier bedtime, and stick with them for a month. Then add another.

Keep expectations realistic

Ageing is natural, and no habit or product stops it. These swaps help your skin look as healthy and fresh as it can at any age.

See which habits matter most for you

The Theraglam Glow Scan looks at 3 photos and your short quiz answers. It gives you a Glow Score, a skin routine, a diet and water plan, exercises, face massage moves and a daily to-do list, so you know which habits to start with.

Start my Glow Scan: 3 photos and a short quiz become your personal skin, diet and face massage plan, sent by email within about 2 hours. Rs 599, one time.

Glow Scan and this article give skincare and lifestyle guidance, not medical advice. For a skin or health condition, please see a doctor or dermatologist.