Facial aging is inevitable, though how early in life it begins and how significantly it impacts your appearance varies greatly. There are many factors that play a role in determining how severe the signs of facial aging may be in each individual, including genetics, exposure to the sun, smoking habits, and even exercise history.

Researchers conducted a study in 2013 that compared identical twins to understand the impact of smoking on their appearance. In each pair, one of the twins smoked and one of the twins did not smoke or smoked significantly less than the other twin. The results showed significant differences between the twins, especially in the lower two-thirds of the face. Plastic surgeons who were involved in the study were challenged to compare professional photographs of the twins without having any idea that their smoking habits were one of the variables being reviewed. Overall, they identified the smoker as having more facial wrinkles, sagging of the upper eyelids, and bigger bags under the eyes.

Exercise habits may also contribute to facial aging. First, those who exercise outside, such as runners, hikers, and kayakers, are exposed to the sun, wind, and other environmental factors. Without proper protection and the use of sunblock, they can cause damage to their skin.