- The most prominent sign of premature skin aging is wrinkles. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that wrinkles are caused by sun exposure, and wrinkles are intensified by smoking. Exposure to free radicals causes damage to the skin's DNA within cell membranes. As a result, skin's collagen and elastin breaks down over time, and skin begins to sag and lose its elasticity.
- Liver spots (also known as age spots) are discolored, dark patches that appear on aging skin. According to the National Institutes of Health, liver spots are common in people over 40 who spent a lot of time in the sun over the years. Liver spots commonly appear on the arms, backs of the hands, face, forehead and shoulders (areas that are easily exposed to the sun).
- Another common sign of premature skin aging is tough, leathery skin texture. When skin is overexposed to the sun over the years, collagen and elastin are damaged. Collagen gives skin its strength and elasticity, and elastin keeps the skin firm and flexible. As a result of sun damage, the skin takes on the appearance of dry, rough leather.
- Enlarged pores are also associated with premature skin aging. As people age, pores grow larger because of a buildup of dead skin cells around pores. Enlarged pores can be reduced by exfoliating skin on a regular basis.
- Not only does repeated exposure to the sun cause premature skin aging, but it also increases people's risk for skin cancer. The American Cancer Society reports: "Risk factors for non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers include: unprotected and/or excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation."
