Let the one who has never sinned be the first to throw a pack of cigarettes at me!
At Maison de l’Argousier, we’re not here to demonize cigarettes! Let’s be clear: everyone does what they can. Here, kindness is always the order of the day!
But you’re not reading this article just to hear platitudes, are you? So let’s not beat around the bush. It’s true that smoking is known to have harmful effects on health. And the skin isn’t spared either.
Let’s dive right in together—into the world of nicotine, how it works, and, most importantly… ways to cope!
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Tobacco and the skin
Deterioration of skin quality
It is true that tobacco does accelerate the skin’s aging process. Studies are in agreement on this point. It is clear that smokers often develop deeper wrinkles at an earlier age, particularly around the mouth and eyes. These are often referred to as “smoker’s lines.”
The question, then, is not whether there is an impact, but rather how to understand the underlying mechanisms so that we can counteract them. Nicotine and other components in cigarettes reduce the supply of oxygen and essential nutrients to the skin. How?
- Nicotine initially causes blood vessels to constrict, thereby reducing blood flow to the skin's surface.
- Carbon monoxide also reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen to the tissues, including those of the skin.
- Finally, the production of collagen and elastin is disrupted. Yet it is essential for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
And what about electronic cigarettes? Well, unfortunately, although studies on the subject are still anecdotal, e-cigarettes don't seem to be much less aggressive (to find out more, see the sources section).
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Duller skin
Smoking also alters skin color. The primary cause is linked to less oxygenated cells. However, the smoke itself is also a source of discoloration.
Skin less well armed
Smoking is associated with an increased risk of several skin diseases. It can also impair the healing process. Finally, smoking can make the skin more vulnerable to the sun. Sun protection with a high SPF is therefore essential!
How can I offset the effects of smoking on my skin?
That is the question, because once we’ve listed all these unpleasant phenomena, we need to find solutions!
Quit smoking (easier said than done…)
Admittedly, once you’ve said that, you haven’t really said much. Few smokers don’t feel the urge to quit…
Let’s not beat around the bush, though: this really is the most effective way to protect your skin. And want some good news? Quitting smoking can improve the appearance of your skin—the damage to your skin’s quality is partially reversible. It’s never too late!
Here are a few concrete examples:
- After a few weeks, the skin regains its radiance and natural color. Hair quality improves, and the nails and fingers lose their brownish tint (1) (2)
- After a few months, quitting smoking can make the skin look several years younger compared to a smoker, who appears, on average, 9 years older than their actual age (3)
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Pamper your skin
Use products containing antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E. They help combat the oxidative stress caused by smoking.
Beta-carotene, when combined with vitamins E and C, can also stimulate the body’s natural collagen production. Sea buckthorn oil, which contains ten times more beta-carotene than a carrot, is therefore an excellent choice for counteracting the effects of smoking on the skin. We highly recommend Secret Sublimant—it’s a real gem in this regard!
Hydration is also essential for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing dryness. Depending on your specific needs, you can use:
- Hydra Protect moisturizing cream
- Active Smoothing First Wrinkle Cream
- or Nutri Actif mature skin cream
By becoming aware of the effects of smoking on the skin, you've already gone a long way. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, it's possible to regain healthier skin!
Sources :
(1) Daver, J., & Biermé, R. (2001). Short- and long-term benefits of quitting smoking.
(2) INPES brochure. The risks of smoking and the benefits of quitting
(3) Serri R et al (2010). Quitting smoking rejuvenates the skin.
Morita, A. (2007). Tobacco smoke causes premature skin aging. Journal of dermatological science, 48(3), 169-175.
Rau, A. S., Reinikovaite, V., Schmidt, E. P., Tarasevičienė-Stewart, L., & Deleyiannis, F. W. (2017). Electronic Cigarettes Are as Toxic to Skin Flap Survival as Tobacco Cigarettes. Annals Of Plastic Surgery, 79(1), 86-91. https://doi.org/10.1097/sap.0000000000000998