Does exercise make you look older?

From time to time, as a plastic surgeon in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, Florida, I get articles from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery that I think might interest you too. For example, think of all the things that can add to making you look like you are older than you are: frowning, smoking, gravity and the passage of time.

Now add one more possibility. Is your workout regimen also making you look older than you are? According to Shape, there may be some exercises that contribute to less-than-appealing changes in the body.

Do you run Beware of "runner's face" Some folks think that jogging has an impact on the elasticity of the skin. It is not the pavement pounding that leads to sagging skin,however.It is the free-radical damage from increased oxygen intake that contributes to wrinkling, according to the source of this information. At the same time, studies show that it takes very strenuous exercise to increase cell damage, so running a few times a week isn't going to change the skin tautness much  .


Bouncing workouts and your breasts
"High-impact exercise, like running and jumping rope, can contribute to premature sagging by stretching out the ligaments in your breasts," according Sabrena Merrill, a personal trainer quoted by the information source. Fortunately, sports bras can help reduce the impact of such activities on one's breasts. Some women may choose to have a breast lift, which, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), can result in a "more youthful breast contour."

Do you love working out outdoors? 
You may put yourself at the risk of serious sun damage. That can cause many skin problems, including premature wrinkling. It's important always to wear sunscreen, even if you're out for a winter jog. If the sun is out, it can negatively affect your skin, so make sure to put lotion with an SPF of 30 or higher when heading out for fresh air.

Is it too late for your appearance if you have not been as diligent as you could have been in your younger years?

Forrtunately, Botox injections and chemical peels, performed by a Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon can help treat these premature signs of aging, and help you look as youthful as you feel.

So, don't stop with the workouts. As with anything, awareness and moderation are the keys to succes..