Everyone wants to look as youthful as possible, but even with drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, and implementing the ultimate skincare regimen, there may be a factor you're overlooking: the state where you live may be contributing to your wrinkles.
Turns out, a new study conducted by skincare brand RoC has assigned a assigned a "wrinkle index" to each state — and the results may cause you to frown! In the study results, Debra Jaliman, MD, FAAD, a Manhattan-based board-certified dermatologist, explains:
Residents of every state have their share of positive and negative skin health factors so the exact cause of wrinkles can vary. However, there are several factors that can increase the rate at which skin ages, including high levels of stress, dangerous exposure to pollution and UVA/UBA radiation.
Check out 5 states that came out on top when it comes to that coveted youthful glow, and 5 that will have you furrowing your brow and planning to move.Ā
Image viaĀ Robert Kneschke/shutterstock
Best: Alaska
It makes sense that Alaska, the stunning but isolated wilderness state, ranks #1. Peace and solitude is great for your skin, we guess, if you don't mind wearing a balaclava!
Best: Oregon
Oregon ranks #2 among the best states for your skin. Known for its laidback vibe, the state is also home to a gorgeous landscape and mild climate.
Best: Washington
We guess all the rain and humidity does wonders for your complexion. Washington is the third best state for keeping those wrinkles at bay.
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Best: Montana
Looking at those mountains and freshwater lakes must be restorative, because Montana comes in at #4 among the best states for your skin.
Best: Hawaii
You'd think all that sun and surf would take a toll on your skin but apparently not. Hawaii is the fifth best state for maintaining a youthful appearance. Maybe that easygoing, stress-free lifestyle makes all the difference!
Worst: Massachusetts
Thanks to an increase in extreme weather conditions, Massachusetts comes it as the fifth worst place for your skin. Remember how last winter's snow was still melting in July? That's enough to make for plenty of scowl lines!
Worst: Colorado
Extreme weather and the high altitude probably contribute to Colorado landing at #4 among the worst states for your skin. Colorado is home to stellar ski destinations like Apsen and Vail, and it's important to remember skiers and snowboarders need sunscreen, too!
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Worst: West Virginia
West Virginia ranks #3 on the worst list, most likely due to generally poor diet and the high percentage of smokers who reside in this southern state.
Worst: Pennsylvania
Though it houses the City of Brotherly Love, Pennsylvania shows no tenderness when it comes to premature aging! The state comes in second among the worst for your skin.
Worst: New York
Turns out the Big Apple is no good for your skin! The worst state when it comes to wrinkles is New York, which commands high scores for being "dissatisfied with lifeā and "lacking emotional support." The Empire State also has the second-longest commute times. Again, more frowny faces!
