Want to stay looking young?

Crows feet and wrinkles

Surveys have shown that the majority of smokers are aware that smoking causes premature death and serious illnesses like heart disease and cancer. However, relatively few smokers are aware of the effects it can have on their skin.

The Facts Smokers tend to look older than smokers of the same age. Smokers’ facial skin is more likely, than non-smokers to have wrinkles, crows feet and a sallow, yellow-grey colouring. Smokers’ skin can be prematurely aged by between 10 and twenty years. The damaging effects of cigarette smoke on the skin are irreversible, however, it is likely that further damage can be prevented by not smoking. Compared to non-smokers, smokers have a two or three times greater risk of developing psoriasis, a chronic skin condition, which although not life threatening can be extremely uncomfortable and disfiguring. The skin aging effect of cigarette smoke is also likely to be caused by exposure to secondhand smoke. Young people working in bars, clubs and pubs need to be aware of this risk. If you would like more information on the effects of smoking or secondhand smoke please contact Derbyshire Action on Smoking on 01246 514347 or email enquiries@smokefreederbyshire.co.uk.