Doctor Le Nguyen Thuy Vay from the Dermatology and Cosmetic Dermatology Unit at Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7, explains that besides genetics and natural aging, morning habits significantly impact skin health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle from an early age can slow down skin aging, reduce wrinkles, and promote a brighter, more even complexion.

Drink warm water upon waking.

After 6-8 hours of sleep, the body is often slightly dehydrated, making skin less elastic, prone to dryness, and wrinkle formation. Starting the day with a glass of warm water helps improve blood circulation, aids digestion, promotes detoxification, assists with weight management, and prevents dehydration.

Adequate hydration from within results in smoother, more radiant skin with fewer wrinkles. Avoid coffee or tea on an empty stomach as caffeine can dehydrate you. Instead, opt for warm water or diluted warm lemon water.

Doctor Vay examines a patient's skin. Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Cleanse and moisturize your skin.

Overnight, the sebaceous glands are active, making skin oily. Combined with accumulated dust and pollutants, this can clog pores. Wash your face upon waking to remove excess oil and impurities. Gentle massage can stimulate blood circulation and improve skin texture.

Those with dry skin should choose a gentle, low-lather cleanser to avoid moisture loss, while those with oily or combination skin should opt for a deep cleanser that maintains natural moisture. For sensitive or acne-prone skin, use oil-free and fragrance-free products to minimize irritation. After cleansing, apply moisturizer to strengthen the skin's protective barrier, reduce dryness, and prevent the early appearance of fine lines.

Apply sunscreen.

Doctor Vay emphasizes that ultraviolet (UV) rays are a leading cause of premature skin aging. Applying sunscreen, even for short periods outdoors, is crucial to protect skin from UVA/UVB damage and prevent pigmentation issues.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2-3 hours during prolonged sun exposure. Blue light from computer screens can also darken skin, making sunscreen essential even when working indoors.

Consume vitamin-rich foods and antioxidants.

A nutritious breakfast with foods rich in vitamin C (oranges, grapefruits, strawberries), vitamin E (walnuts, almonds), zinc, and omega-3s (salmon, chia seeds) provides antioxidants, stimulates collagen production, and improves skin elasticity, reducing the risk of age spots. Conversely, skipping breakfast or consuming oily, sugary fast food can lead to dull, lifeless skin and premature aging.

Doctor Vay advises that maintaining these 4 habits is fundamental to preventing wrinkles and skin discoloration. For those with existing signs of aging, such as age spots or deep wrinkles, additional medical treatments like peels, laser therapy, radiofrequency treatments, or nutrient injections can be beneficial. A healthy lifestyle, adequate sleep, and stress management are also essential for healthy, beautiful skin from the inside out.

Minh Huong