Aging is a simple and unavoidable fact of life. However, we all age differently and in our own ways. What some people do not fully understand is that it is possible for some to age a bit faster than others. This, of course, is natural too, but it is important to know why this happens. With some factors being genetic and others purely based on lifestyle, here is why some people age faster than others:

Thinner Skin

No, this doesn’t mean taking constructive criticism better than others. Studies have shown that people with thicker skin show fewer signs of aging. Dr. Liotta explains having thicker the dermis means cells are more densely packed together and more compact, making fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable. DNA determines whether you were born with thick skin and typically people with more melanin-rich skin like Hispanics, Mediterraneans, Asian-Americans, and African-Americans more likely to have thicker skin. Thicker skin showing fewer wrinkles is also the reason people tend to see more wrinkles on their forehead or under the eyes since that is the skin is thinnest.

Not Drinking Enough Water

Aging does not have to solely depend on genetics. Someone can look much younger on the outside but are aging fast on the inside. Often times, those who are not drinking enough water are not aging as gracefully as others. Water will keep the brain more hydrated and healthier. The older people get, the more difficult it is to absorb nutrients in the gut, which is why staying hydrated can lead to a healthier gut, too. By always drinking water and staying hydrated, people are less likely to feel the signs of aging such as fatigue, foggy thinking, headaches, and constipation.

Under-Active Brain

It isn’t just about aging physically, but mentally as well. Those who have an under-active brain tend to show more signs of aging such as memory loss. It’s important to keep the brain active in order to fight against the signs of aging. Studies have shown that, while neurons remain finite, brainy activities stimulate new connections between nerve cells and have the potential to generate new cells. This type of activity for the brain helps it develop neurological “plasticity” to build up a functional reserve that provides a hedge against future cell loss. This can be achieved through doing word puzzles, math problems, or anything that requires manual dexterity as well as mental effort. Keeping the brain active and healthy can help slow down the effects of aging