Smoking and wrinkles

I'm 26 and have been smoking a little less than a pack a day for about 13 years.  I noticed that within the last few months, fine lines appeared on my face; one by the eye and one by the laugh-line.  I have no others anywhere (yet).  I'm aware that smoking causes premature wrinkling.  If I quit smoking now, will it cease the line progression?  Can it reverse the existing lines?  Thanks in advance.

[SA, M.D. - HVMA]

Dear John,

There is no doubt that smoking causes people to age prematurely and to die before their time.  Premature wrinkling is one of the obvious signs that smoking is robbing you of life and vitality.  The sooner you quit, the more likely it is that you will be able to reverse all of the various ill effects of smoking, including premature wrinkling.

For more on smoking cessation, check out http://www.drsteve.org !

DrSteve

The information provided is for general educational purposes, only.  Consult your personal physician for the diagnosis and treatment of medical problems.

[john m]

Is there any evidence that smoking contributes to hair loss in men that have a disposition for alopecia?