Why Do We Age?

Aging is one of the few processes that are still baffling to the scientists. The question to the answer "why do we age" is neither apparent nor simple. It has puzzled scientific minds since antiquity.
Aging has a number of indicators that chronicle the process of aging from its earliest onsets to the continuation of the process till the last breath. One of these indicators is the how our skin looks. Skin is the largest organ of our body. It is considered to be one of the best known indicators of the aging process. The wrinkles and blemishes of the skin highlight the passing of the years.
The research into the process of aging has so far identified several factors that affect the skin and indicate the process of aging. Following are some of the factors that cause the skin to grow old:
Exposure to Sun

Sunlight is considered to be very beneficial for your skin. However, the UV component of the sunlight often damages the skin beyond repair. The proper term for the process is Photo aging. Many people forget or avoid protection from sun's rays. This causes noticeable changes in the skin and how it looks. a number of problems including freckles, age spots, spider veins on the face, rough and leathery skin, fine wrinkles that disappear when stretched, loose skin, a blotchy complexion, actinic keratosis and skin cancer are caused by exposure to sun.
One of the easiest ways you can avoid sun's damage to the skin is to use sunscreens. A good sun screen is essential if you plan to spend two or more hours outdoors.
Facial Expressions
Another important factor is how often and for how long you hold your facial expressions. Smiling, frowning, squinting and frowning all alter the way you look. One important thing to remember is that every time you change your facial expressions, you are activating muscles beneath your face. This causes the skin to stretch and contract many times in a day. Overtime, your facial expressions give your face the wrinkles and furrows.
Gravity
We are constantly exposed to gravity, the force that keeps us from floating out into space. Gravity is a tremendously active force and its action could be very subtle. Gravity is now cited as the main reason of drooping noses and sagging skin folds. There is no way of avoiding gravity. However, regular exercise and hydration could stave off the effects of gravity on your skin.
Smoking
Smoking has been cited for many ailments of the human body. However, the relationship of smoking and skin damage has recently been understood. The exposure to the smoking of soot of a cigarette or a pipe actually causes your skin to dry out and develop wrinkles.
Smoking gives a sickly yellow tone to the skin. This adds to the unhealthy look of the skin. It is estimated that an average of 10 cigarettes a day accelerate the process of aging of the skin.

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