Smoking and vaping have a range of health effects and significantly impact the body’s largest organ: the skin. So, how does smoking and vaping affect your skin? Let’s take a closer look at how these habits can damage and prematurely age your complexion.
Premature Ageing
Both smoking and vaping accelerate the ageing process. Nicotine and harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke and vape products reduce blood flow and oxygen to your skin. This leads to slower cell turnover, fewer nutrients in skin cells, and a breakdown of collagen and elastin—proteins that contribute to a youthful appearance. As a result, you may experience deeper wrinkles and an earlier onset of thinning skin. Smokers and vapers often appear dull, inflamed, and dehydrated, with more noticeable lines and uneven texture.
Slower Healing
Nicotine narrows blood vessels, slowing down your skin’s healing ability. This makes the skin more susceptible to infections, premature cell death, and scarring. Smoking and vaping also reduce fibroblasts—the cells responsible for collagen and elastin production—negatively affecting wound healing and skin plumpness. This can lead to increased scar tissue and inflammation as cell communication becomes disrupted.
Acne
Reduced blood flow and oxidative stress can clog pores and cause breakouts. Smoking and vaping may also contribute to gut health issues, worsening acne. Coupled with a slower wound-healing response, acne can become more inflamed and prone to scarring. Furthermore, the damage caused by smoking and vaping weakens your skin’s ability to absorb skincare products and respond to treatments, making it seem as though your skincare routine isn’t working.
Increased Skin Sensitivity
Smoking and vaping can aggravate conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Both vapes and cigarettes contain various allergens that can cause contact dermatitis. Additionally, these habits limit the intake of healthy fats, nutrients, and oxygen in the skin, leading to dull, dry skin. Smoking and vaping can exacerbate rosacea due to reduced oxygen and blood flow, resulting in increased redness, inflammation, and sensitivity.
Pigmentation Issues
Smoking and vaping can lead to hyperpigmentation—dark spots caused by oxidative stress and poor circulation.
Need Help or Advice?
If you’re ready to reverse the effects of smoking or vaping on your skin, our team at Zenyu Skin and Beauty is here to guide you. We offer a comprehensive approach that not only improves your skin but also enhances your overall health and confidence. Let us assist you on your journey to clearer, healthier skin.
How can I effectively improve my skin after quitting smoking or vaping?
Start with internal support. Gut cleanse supplements like Regul8 Digestive Tune-up or working closely with a naturopath can help strengthen your skin from the inside out. Moving forward, hydration treatments and resurfacing therapies such as DMK Enzyme Therapy can improve fine lines, texture, and brightness by restoring the skin’s internal functions. Skin needling and chemical peels can also be introduced depending on your skin’s condition.
What specific skincare products should I use to counteract the damage?
Vitamin A serums and EFA supplements are excellent starting points, along with Vitamin C to promote collagen production and protect against free radicals.
Are there lifestyle changes that can further support skin health post-smoking or vaping?
Incorporate regular exercise and sauna sessions to improve circulation, flush out toxins, and support skin cell renewal. Pair this with a healthy, balanced diet to maintain long-term skin vitality.
