What is inflammaging? Dermatologist lists the causes of early wrinkles, suggests ways to stop it naturally

Skincare benefits of sunscreen: SPF remains the gold standard in fighting inflammaging. Use it every single day, yes, even indoors (Image: Pexels)

Remember when wrinkles were just a thing to worry about at 60? These days, laugh lines, sagging, and dullness seem to arrive much earlier—and it’s not just down to time. Scientists and dermatologists now point to a hidden culprit: inflammaging. An unwanted blend of chronic inflammation and natural ageing, it robs your skin’s youthfulness, long before you even spot the signs.

While many understand inflammation as a response to injury or infection, inflammaging is a quieter and more dangerous. It’s a form of chronic, low-grade inflammation that doesn’t hurt or swell, but slowly wears down your skin’s defences.

“It’s not the kind of inflammation that heals, it’s the kind that lingers and damages,” Dr Vidushi Jain, dermatologist and medical head, Dermalinks, Noida and Ghaziabad, tells Moneycontrol. “Inflammaging causes collagen and elastin, our skin’s structural proteins, to break down over time, leading to wrinkles, sagging and a tired, unhealthy appearance,” she adds.

Also read | How to reduce inflammation: 5 signs you have inflammation and the perfect diet plan to manage it

How daily life triggers inflammaging:

From the sun’s UV raysto everyday stress, modern life is packed with skin saboteurs. “UV light creates free radicals that damage skin cells. Also, air pollution, poor sleep, junk food and anxiety, show that your skin is constantly under attack. Our body's repair mechanisms can’t keep up with the damage. It results in a constant state of internal stress that leaves skin thin, dull, and prone to fine lines — even in our 30s,” Dr Jain warns.

Dr Jain shares tips on how to fight inflammaging naturally:

• Load up on skin-loving antioxidants: Topical antioxidants like vitamin C, niacinamide, resveratrol, and green tea extract neutralise free radicals before they wreak havoc. “These ingredients calm inflammation and support the skin’s barrier,” says Dr Jain.

• Repair your skin barrier: Look for ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid in your moisturisers to replenish moisture and keep your skin resilient.

Also read | Acne, eczema, psoriasis and more: Causes, symptoms and treatment tips for 13 common skin problems

• Never skip your sunscreen: SPF remains the gold standard in fighting inflammaging. Use it every single day, yes, even indoors.

• Nutrient rich food: An anti-inflammatory diet full of omega-3s, colourful fruits, greens, nuts, and hydration helps your skin stay plump and glowing from within.

• Sleep, move, and breathe right: “A good sleep regulates hormones, exercise improves circulation, and meditation lowers stress, all crucial in reducing internal inflammation,” Dr Jain shares.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosi