The Scientific Explanation

Each of these physical observation has a clear and logical explanation provided by Science. Smoking affects multiple organs in our body, but the effects of cigarette smoking on skin is directly linked to its interaction with collagen. In a research done on the effects of cigarette smoking on the lung tissue, results showed that cigarette smoking induced the destruction of collagen fibers through a chronic inflammatory process. This could imply that cigarette smoking has similar effects on the collagen of the skin. Additionally, cigarette smoking inhibits the production of elastin and fibronectin (by fibroblasts), a protein responsible for the elasticity of connective tissue.

This would explain why smokers present with the typical facies that we generally observe: the sagging skin and wrinkles around the eyes are due to a loss of skin elasticity, the teeth falling and gum disease are due to a weakening of the gums and their blood vessels due to a loss of collagen’s tensile strength.

Can You Quit Smoking?

In addition to the extensive skin damage that it causes, smoking cigarettes directly puts you at risk of heart diseases, vascular diseases and cerebro-vascular accidents (strokes) that could negatively change your life forever.

Yes, you can quit smoking! It is difficult, certainly, but it is possible. Currently, statistics show that there are about 45 million smokers in the USA. More importantly, there are at least 48 million “former” smokers! So if 48 million people could stop, why can’t you? You might need to try more than once, you might fall short sometimes, but hey, perseverance is key. For this endeavor, it is highly advisable that you consult your Doctor to find out what strategy would work best for you. 4 – 7% of smokers manage to quit on their own, but we wouldn’t want you to face any disappointment at your first trial.

Read More: Tobacco Health Impact: A Day without Smoking

Dealing With The Skin Damage Caused By Smoking

Because smoking is directly linked to skin damage, the first best step to deal with that skin damage is to stop smoking. The wrinkles and age spots that you have would probably remain, but you could still try to make them look less obvious and more subtle. Former smokers have had a lot of success with topical retinoid and antioxidant creams rich in vitamins C and E. Additionally, as exposure to sun worsens the skin damage caused by smoking, it is recommended to wear some sunscreen before heading outdoors. You could also choose to undergo some procedures for faster and more radical results. Chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing are great options to remove the outer layers of the skin that already appear damaged, and stimulate the growth of new cells. And who knows, maybe a whole brand new, fresh and healthy-looking skin would motivate you to finally enroll in a nicotine detox and remain cigarette-free for the rest of your life!