Get Quartz in your inbox

Free daily briefing on global business news.

These everyday habits may be adding years to your appearance

Discover five everyday habits that may leave you looking tired or affect how you carry yourself, plus simple changes to consider

Resume Genius / Unsplash

Aging is a natural part of life, but some everyday habits can make us look more tired or worn out than we feel. The Healthy explores routines that may affect how rested we appear, how we carry ourselves, and how our bodies feel over time. The point isn’t to chase a permanently youthful appearance. It’s to notice small habits that may be working against your well-being—and decide whether a few changes could help.

Sleep is one place to start. A restless night can show up in the mirror, and the way you sleep may matter, too. Your usual position can put pressure on your face for hours at a time.

Stress is another factor worth considering. It can affect the body in different ways, especially when it disrupts sleep or leaves you feeling depleted. Movement matters as well. Long stretches of sitting can leave you feeling sluggish, while regular activity supports overall health.

Then there’s the phone that rarely leaves your hand. Looking down at a screen for long periods can influence posture, and screen time can crowd out sleep or other routines that help you feel your best.

None of these habits determines exactly how old you look. Since appearance is influenced by genetics, environment, and life experience, these habits are best treated as practical reminders—not guaranteed ways to reverse signs of aging. 

Here are five common habits that may be worth a closer look. 

1. You’re not getting enough sleep

Greg Pappas / Unsplash

A short night can leave you looking as tired as you feel. The Healthy notes that inadequate sleep may contribute to visible signs of fatigue, including a dull complexion and more noticeable under-eye concerns. Regularly missing out on rest can also make it harder to maintain the routines that support your overall health.

Sleep needs........

© Quartz