How does smoking cause wrinkles?
Smoking affects every cell in the body, restricting blood flow to important organs. As the largest organ in the body, the skin depends on healthy blood flow to remain vibrant. Vitamins carried by the blood, especially Vitamin A, are instrumental in maintaining the skin’s structure. By reducing the flow of vitamins and nutrients to the skin, smoking degrades the underlying structures that create a youthful, smooth appearance. Collagen At Risk In addition, a recent report by British scientists noted that smokers have higher concentrations of the protein matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1) in their skin. MMP-1 degrades collagen, an underlying tissue that keeps skin supple. MMP-1 appears to be particularly damaging to the skin when combined with sunlight. The skin changes caused by smoking can be seen in young adults with only a 10-year smoking history. Vitamin D We’ve been seeing media reports lately about the importance of Vitamin D, some of which question the wisdom of avoiding sun expos
