## 5 outward signs that a person is a smoker - Dull complexion: smoking impairs blood circulation, depriving skin cells of oxygen and essential nutrients. This makes the face look dull and lifeless. - Early wrinkles: cigarettes contain thousands of harmful chemicals, including free radicals, which destroy collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for skin elasticity and youthfulness. Smokers get wrinkles earlier, especially around the mouth and eyes. - Dryness and flaking: nicotine constricts blood vessels, interfering with normal skin moisturization and leading to dryness, flaking, and rough texture. - Yellowing and uneven skin tone: prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke can leave a yellowish tint on the skin and teeth, and toxic compounds provoke stains and unevenness. - Acne and other skin conditions: smoking can aggravate acne, psoriasis, and eczema due to inflammation and weakened immunity. It also impairs the skin's ability to heal, so even small wounds leave noticeable scars on the skin. ## How the skin changes after quitting cigarettes - 1 week: blood circulation improves, the skin receives more oxygen and nutrients, and the complexion becomes slightly brighter. - 1 month: collagen production normalizes, and skin texture and hydration improve. Fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed out. - 3-6 months: age spots disappear, and skin tone becomes evener. Skin looks healthy and firm. - 1 year or more: deep wrinkles and scars become less visible. The skin aging process slows down. ## What else you can do to improve skin quality If you have already taken the most important step of giving up cigarettes, these additional recommendations will help your skin repair faster.=== - Drink more water. This will help flush out toxins and keep your skin and body healthy. - Use moisturizers with antioxidants (such as vitamin C) and retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) to speed up recovery - Include fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in vitamins [A](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=85), [C](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=50), and [E](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=66) to improve collagen production and skin healing. - Use sunscreen daily, even during the cold season, to protect your skin from UV rays. - Exercise regularly. Physical activity improves blood circulation and provides oxygen and nutrients to the skin. - Be patient. Although improvements can be noticed quickly, it can take months or even years for the skin to recover fully.