India, July 8 -- I n today's fast-paced digital world, technology has become an essential part of our lives. From smartphones and laptops to tablets and social media, our dependency on these devices has surged - let's not forget smart rings, watches and ear pods! While technology provides numerous advantages, its excessive use can negatively impact our skin health, particularly by leading to premature sagging. As a dermatologist, I frequently encounter patients concerned about early signs of ageing. One key aspect of my evaluation is their lifestyle, especially their habits regarding technology use. Excessive screen time can lead to various skin issues. 1The role of blue light: Blue light, which is emitted by these gadgets, penetrates the skin more deeply than UV rays. Research shows that this exposure can lead to oxidative stress, damaging collagen and elastin - the essential proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and youthful. As these proteins degrade, skin loses its elasticity, contributing to sagging and wrinkles. As I often say, "Protecting your skin from all forms of light is just as essential as sunscreen." 2Posture and skin laxity: Another frequently overlooked aspect of technology use is posture. Many individuals tend to slouch or adopt poor posture while using devices, leading to a phenomenon known as "tech neck". This condition refers to sagging skin and wrinkles that develop around the neck and decolletage from the habit of constantly looking down at screens. Over time, repeated folding of the skin in these areas can significantly reduce elasticity, making facial ageing more pronounced. 3Dehydration and skin barrier disruption: Frequent interaction with screens often results in less water intake. People can become so engrossed in their digital lives that they forget to stay hydrated. Dehydrated skin often leads to a compromised barrier, increasing vulnerability to environmental damage and resulting in visible sagging and fine lines. 4Sleep disruption: Quality sleep is vital for maintaining youthful skin. Unfortunately, excessive technology use, especially in the evening, can disrupt sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by devices affects melatonin production, which is critical for restful sleep. Poor sleep elevates cortisol levels - the hormone linked to collagen breakdown and disrupted skin repair processes during the night. The result is dull, sagging skin that betrays your age. 5Stress induction through technology: Moreover, the constant bombardment of information from devices can induce significant stress, which is a known contributor to premature ageing. Stress triggers the release of hormones that negatively impact skin elasticity, leading to sagging and other visible signs of ageing. The author is a leading dermatologist and skin allergy specialist from Delhi....