Give up and save face

With the Christmas and New Year party season in full swing Walsall Stop Smoking Service has today announced the top beauty tip to achieving the perfect look – just quit. The aim behind the message is to alert residents to the damaging effects smoking has on their appearance and what they can do to avoid further damage.

Joanna Robinson, Specialist Smoking Cessation Advisor for Walsall tPCT, said: “Smoking does not only affect people’s health it also has a huge impact on their appearance. Most people spend a fortune on moisturisers and make-up to make sure they look their best but smoking undermines any efforts made. By giving up smoking residents are not only saving their skin but their money too.”

The effects of cigarette smoke on the skin are irreversible. It prematurely ages the skin by 10 to 20 years, increases the likelihood of facial wrinkling by up to three times around the eyes and mouth, causes bad breath and stained teeth and may double the risk of developing psoriasis, a chronic skin condition which can be extremely uncomfortable and disfiguring.  According to a survey of over 1000 men and women available on www.givingupsmoking.co.uk nearly half men associated smoking with wrinkles, bad skin and less enjoyable kissing, over two-thirds of young men and women and over half of smokers say smoking reduces sexual attractiveness.

Walsall Stop Smoking Services offer help and support to anyone who is considering stopping. One to one and group support are available at various times and locations throughout Walsall. During January 2007 there will be drop in sessions held every Saturday from 10 am till 12noon at St Paul’s the Crossing in Walsall. 

For more information on how to quit smoking call 0800 169 9346.