Hot Weather and the Risk of Premature Aging

Indonesia has recently been hit by quite extreme hot weather. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) revealed that this condition was triggered by several factors, such as the effects of the dry season, the El Nino phenomenon, and a decrease in global rainfall.

As a result, a number of areas experienced hot weather like 'leaking hell'. BMKG also predicts hot weather will last for the next seven days with a temperature range of 35-38 degrees Celsius.

Of course, this affects people's routines, especially those who do outdoor activities. Extreme weather, both hot and cold, can worsen some existing skin conditions or even cause new ones.

The climate in an area can affect the skin all over your body, from the appearance of acne to itchy dry patches. In warm climates, increased heat and humidity can cause skin to sweat, making it more prone to acne, especially if your skin is oily.

Apart from making it hot, exposure to hot weather for a long period of time also has the potential to cause health problems. The impact of sun exposure can trigger the appearance of signs of aging on the skin. Heat can also trigger other skin problems.

Among them is heat rash, which occurs when the sweat ducts close, so that moisture is trapped under the skin and causes a rash in the form of blisters or lumps.

Sun damage, UV rays damage the elastic structure under the skin and cause fine tissue-like wrinkles, resulting in a rough and wrinkled appearance (damaged skin barrier). Ultraviolet radiation, which accelerates the natural aging process, is the main cause of premature wrinkles.

Exposure to UV rays can also damage elastin fibers which play a role in maintaining skin shape. Elastin is a protein that allows skin to return to its original shape when pulled or stretched.

When elastin is damaged, the skin begins to lose its ability to return to its original shape after being pulled or stressed. As a result, the skin becomes saggy, fine lines and wrinkles appear,

The effects of UV rays can also make the skin surface dry, rough and uneven.

Damage from UV rays can also cause the skin to lose its ability to retain moisture, leaving it dry and rough.

Tips to protect skin and minimize wrinkles:

1. Protect your skin from sunlight

Limit the time you spend in the sun, especially during the day, and always wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, and sunglasses.

Apart from that, use sunscreen/SPF when outdoors.

2. Moisturize

Dry skin makes skin cells wrinkle, which can cause fine lines and premature wrinkles.

3. Eat healthy food

You should consume more nutrients, fruits and vegetables because there are certain vitamins in food that can help you protect your skin

4. Don't smoke

Even if you have smoked for years or smoke heavily, you can still improve skin tone and texture and prevent wrinkles by quitting smoking.