As we age, our skin naturally loses its elasticity and collagen, which can lead to wrinkles and other signs of aging. While this process can’t be stopped, there are steps you can take to minimize the damage and keep your skin looking youthful.

However, some common facial mistakes can actually accelerate the aging process and make you look older than you are. If you want to maintain a more youthful appearance, avoid these six facial mistakes.

1. Not Wearing Sunscreen

One of the biggest culprits of premature aging is sun damage. UV rays can cause wrinkles, sunspots, and other signs of aging.

Many people believe that they don’t need sunscreen if they’re not spending time in the sun, but this is a common myth. UV rays can penetrate clouds, windows, and even the skin itself. Even if you’re inside all day, you should still apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

2. Sleeping on Your Stomach or Side

Your sleep position can also affect the appearance of your skin. Sleeping on your stomach or side can cause wrinkles and “sleep lines” on your face, which can become permanent over time.

If you want to minimize the damage, try sleeping on your back instead. This can also help prevent under-eye bags and puffiness.

3. Rubbing Your Eyes

It’s natural to rub your eyes when they’re tired or irritated, but this can actually make the problem worse. The skin around your eyes is delicate and easily damaged, so rubbing can cause wrinkles and inflammation.

If you need to relieve eye irritation, try using a cold compress or eye drops instead.

4. Not Removing Makeup Before Bed

Makeup can clog your pores and cause breakouts, but it can also lead to wrinkles and fine lines. When you leave makeup on overnight, it can cause irritation and inflammation, which can damage your skin over time.

Always take the time to remove your makeup before bed, and use a gentle cleanser to avoid damaging your skin.

5. Over-Exfoliating

Exfoliating can be a great way to remove dead skin cells and improve your complexion, but over-exfoliating can do more harm than good. Scrubbing too hard or using harsh exfoliants can damage your skin and cause inflammation.

This can lead to wrinkles and other signs of aging. Stick to gentle exfoliants, and limit your exfoliation to once or twice a week.

6. Smoking

Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your skin. It damages collagen and elastin, which can cause wrinkles and sagging skin. It also restricts blood flow, which can lead to a dull complexion.

If you want to maintain a youthful appearance, quitting smoking is a must.

Avoiding these six facial mistakes can help you maintain a more youthful appearance and prevent premature aging. By taking care of your skin and avoiding harmful habits, you can enjoy healthy and youthful-looking skin for years to come.