Smoking affects the appearance and health of the skin. Smoking causes constriction of the blood vessels that supply the skin with oxygen and nutrients and remove toxic waste products. When blood vessels are constricted, the blood supply is reduced and the cell’s ability to remove waste is reduced. A reduced blood flow can cause the skin to pale and age.
Smoking reduces the body’s ability to mend cuts and other wounds. Nicotine causes the blood vessels to spasm and constrict, which impairs blood flow to the damaged area. Without adequate amounts of nutrients and materials carried in the blood, the skin near the incisions dies, cells slough off, and a crusty7 scab forms that does not heal properly.
Smoking increases vitamin C requirements by approximately 40 to 80 milligrams. Adequate amounts of vitamin C are needed to maintain the firmness and tone of the skin and to prevent broken blood vessels and tiny haemorrhages below the surface of the skin. ,
