Q: Does smoking really affect your skin?

A: Yes, smoking is one of the main causes of extrinsic ageing. Smoking causes a destruction of collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis of the skin and depletes moisture from our skin causing a dull complexion. Smoking creates free radicals in our bodies and deprives us of Vitamin C, which is a powerful anti-ageing ingredient.

Smokers need an intake of around 66% more vitamin C than non smokers.

If you are going on a night out where there may be smoking, apply a face cream containing antioxidants such as Vitamin C and/or E. When you get home cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove any surface pollutants, and apply a night cream containing antioxidants such as Vitamin C and/or E.

Our ask the expert question has been answered today by La Roche-Posay’s Training Manager, Janette Ryan.

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