‘Harsh environments’: The 6 jobs that are making you age faster

Sitting at an office desk for hours on end? You might be doing some serious damage to your skin. Here’s what to do about it.

A new report released this week reveals that your job could be accelerating the ageing process, making you look older faster.

While most people attribute ageing to genetics or sun exposure, the Hydro Boost – HydroNation Report by Neutrogena highlights that work environments might be responsible for increasing fine lines, dehydration, dullness, and loss of elasticity, causing you to appear older than you really are.

With 70 per cent of Aussies reporting that their skin is dehydrated, it’s surprising that many workers don’t know their job may be the cause.

The main jobs contributing to accelerated ageing include frequent flyers, outdoor workers, corporate professionals, healthcare workers, and those in the hospitality and beauty industries.

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A new report has revealed what jobs are likely to make you age faster. Picture: Canva

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“These people face continual exposure to dehydrating conditions like airconditioning, harsh weather, prolonged screen time, and irregular sleep patterns, all of which exacerbate skin dehydration and ageing,” said dermal clinician Jayde Taylor on news.com.au.

“Outdoor workers may find their skin hydration barrier weakened by harsh environments, while corporate professionals and frequent travellers suffer from dryness and premature wrinkles resulting from low humidity and prolonged technology use,” she explained.

The report also reveals that stress is a significant factor in skin dehydration.

Office workers and flight attendants are at the highest of risk of skin dehydration and ageing. Picture: Canva

The report highlights that 49 per cent of frequent sufferers cite airconditioned or heated spaces as major triggers, while 58 per cent feel dehydrated after spending time in harsh weather conditions.

Blue light from screens is also known to contribute to oxidative stress, further accelerating the ageing process.

To combat these effects and achieve “plump, juicy skin,” Ms Taylor recommends incorporating hydration-boosting skincare to provide long-lasting moisture and reinforce the skin’s barrier.

“Antioxidant-rich serums and regular breaks can also help counteract environmental stressors,” she notes.

“Prioritising water intake, a balanced diet, and quality sleep further supports skin health from within.”

Dermal clinician, Jayde Taylor, has shared tips to reduce skin hydration. Picture: Supplied

The report also revealed that women are significantly more affected than men, with 46 per cent experiencing skin dehydration weekly or more frequently (compared to 28 per cent of men).

Interestingly, the findings showed that younger generations – Gen Z (73 per cent), Millennials (73 per cent), and Gen X (75 per cent) – are more likely to experience skin dehydration at least occasionally compared to Baby Boomers (60 per cent).

And dehydrated skin is more than just a cosmetic concern.

Four in five affected people report it impacts them emotionally, with many feeling “uncomfortable in their own skin” (41 per cent), less confident in their appearance (38 per cent), and more self-conscious in social situations (27 per cent).