Introduction: The Science of Skin Aging
Ever wondered why some people seem to age faster than others? It’s not just about your genes—it’s also about where you live and how you live. Certain states in the U.S. present environments that can accelerate the appearance of wrinkles. Factors like sun exposure, smoking, stress, and sleep habits can all affect how your skin ages over time.
At HubMedEd, we aim to help both medical professionals and the general public understand how environmental factors impact skin aging. By identifying the states with the highest wrinkle risk, we will provide actionable insights on how to protect your skin, no matter where you live.
This study ranks all 50 states based on their "wrinkle risk," taking into account factors that influence skin aging. As Skin Cancer Awareness Month approaches, we’re highlighting how your environment could be aging you faster than you think—and what you can do to protect your skin.
Key Findings Summary
- West Virginia ranks #1 with the highest wrinkle risk, driven by smoking, high stress, and poor air quality.
- States like Nevada and Florida, known for their high UV exposure, make the top 10 despite differences in other factors.
- Minnesota, Nebraska, and New Hampshire are the least wrinkle-prone states, thanks to lower stress, smoking, and air pollution.
- Smoking and sleep deprivation are the strongest contributors to high wrinkle risk across all states.
- States with cleaner air and lower stress, such as Minnesota and New Hampshire, tend to rank better even if their UV exposure is moderate.
U.S. Heatmap: Visualizing Wrinkle Risk
To give you a clearer picture of the areas most at risk for skin aging, we’ve created a heatmap based on our wrinkle risk scores, which are explained at the end of this article. The map shows the regions with the highest levels of UV exposure, smoking, stress, sleep deprivation, and air pollution—factors that contribute to premature skin aging.
From the sun-soaked states of the Southwest to regions in the South, where high levels of stress and air pollution create additional challenges on maintaining youthful skin. The Southern and Appalachian regions, in particular, share risk factors that accelerate skin aging, including environmental stressors and lifestyle habits.
Key Takeaways:
- The Southern and Appalachian regions, including states like West Virginia, Tennessee, and Louisiana, stand out as the highest-risk areas due to high stress levels and smoking.
- UV rays play a crucial role in skin aging, especially in states like Nevada, Florida, and Arizona where sun exposure is high.
- States like Minnesota and New Hampshire, with cleaner air and less stress, offer more favorable environments for youthful skin.
This heatmap offers a snapshot of where people need to be most mindful of their skin health—particularly those living in high-risk states. Let’s now dive deeper into the top 5 most wrinkle-prone states.
The Top 10 Most Wrinkle-Prone States in America
Where you live may affect more than just your day-to-day life—it can influence how quickly your skin ages. Certain states have higher levels of UV exposure, stress, smoking, and pollution, all of which contribute to faster skin aging. In this section, we reveal the top 10 states with the highest wrinkle risk based on key environmental and lifestyle factors.
From high-stress Southern states to sun-soaked corners of the West, these rankings offer a closer look at where skin might need extra protection—and why.
1. West Virginia: The Wrinkle Risk Capital
Wrinkle Risk Score: 79.9 | UV Index: 7 (Moderate) | Smoking: 26% | Stress: 55 | Air Quality Index: 48
West Virginia is the state with the highest risk for premature skin aging in the U.S. This is driven by a combination of factors, including the highest smoking rate in the nation, heightened stress levels, and poor air quality—each contributing to the acceleration of skin aging. While resilience is a defining characteristic of its residents, maintaining youthful skin in this environment may require additional care and support.
2. Louisiana: Where the Sun and Stress Pair Up
Wrinkle Risk Score: 74.1 | UV Index: 8 (High) | Smoking: 23% | Stress: 56 | Air Quality Index: 40
Louisiana’s sunny climate and elevated stress levels make it a notable hotspot for wrinkle risk. Coupled with a smoking rate significantly higher than the national average, it’s crucial for residents to prioritize both sun protection and stress management in their daily routines.
3. Tennessee: Smoke, Sun, and Skin Strain
Wrinkle Risk Score: 73.5 | UV Index: 8 (High) | Smoking: 23% | Stress: 53 | Air Quality Index: 48
Renowned for its music and hospitality, Tennessee also faces elevated risks for skin aging due to high smoking rates and stress levels. When combined with strong UV exposure, these factors create a challenging environment for maintaining skin health and longevity.
4. Nevada: Dry Heat, High Stress
Wrinkle Risk Score: 73.1 | UV Index: 10 (Very High) | Smoking: 18% | Stress: 60 | Air Quality Index: 42
Nevada’s desert heat and blazing sun might be great for pool days—but not for skin. Its UV index is among the highest nationwide, and stress levels are just as elevated. It’s a reminder that dry climates can age skin just as quickly as humid ones.
5. Alabama: A Southern State with Skin-Aging Triggers
Wrinkle Risk Score: 72.4 | UV Index: 8 (High) | Smoking: 21% | Stress: 53 | Air Quality Index: 47
Alabama’s warm climate comes with increased wrinkle risks, driven by strong sun exposure, poor air quality, and elevated stress levels. Residents may find it beneficial to reassess their skincare routines to better protect their skin.
6–10: States Still High on the Wrinkle Risk Radar
While these states didn’t make the top five, they aren’t far behind. Each is characterized by elevated levels of factors that contribute to skin aging, including smoking, UV exposure, stress, and pollution.
6. Arkansas: Quietly Climbing the Wrinkle Risk Ladder
Wrinkle Risk Score: 71.5 | UV Index: 8 | Smoking: 22% | Stress: 53
Here’s a more professional revision:
With strong sun, high smoking rates, and persistent stress, Arkansas quietly earns its spot near the top of the wrinkle-risk list. While it may not always make the headlines, its environmental profile suggests residents should be just as vigilant about skin health.
7. Mississippi: Southern Sun Meets Skin Stress
Wrinkle Risk Score: 70.8 | UV Index: 8 | Smoking: 22% | Stress: 55
Mississippi’s heat is matched by its wrinkle risk. A combination of UV exposure, lifestyle stress, and smoking rates makes this Southern state one of the tougher spots for maintaining youthful skin—especially without consistent sun protection.
8. Kentucky: Tobacco and Tension
Wrinkle Risk Score: 70.2 | UV Index: 7 | Smoking: 25% | Stress: 49
With one of the highest smoking rates in the U.S. and poor air quality, Kentucky is firmly in the high-risk category for skin aging. This underscores how lifestyle habits can have a long-term impact on skin health.
9. Georgia: Sunny Days, Higher Skin Risk
Wrinkle Risk Score: 66.1 | UV Index: 9 | Smoking: 18% | Stress: 50
Georgia’s high UV exposure and air quality concerns pose significant challenges for skin health, contrary to its peaches-and-sunshine image. Sun protection is not just advisable—it’s essential, particularly in a state where the sun shines year-round.
10. Florida: Sunshine Comes with a Side of Wrinkles
Wrinkle Risk Score: 64.6 | UV Index: 10 | Smoking: 16% | Stress: 51
Florida ranks in the top 10 due to its intense UV exposure. While the state promotes an active, outdoor lifestyle, prolonged sun exposure comes with a cost. The risk of premature skin aging increases with each beach day that overlooks sun protection—and there are plenty of beach days.
The Top 10 Most Wrinkle-Safe States in America
Certain states provide a more forgiving environment for skin health. With lower UV exposure, cleaner air, reduced smoking rates, and a more relaxed pace of life, these factors contribute to a lower 'wrinkle risk.'
In this section, we highlight the 10 states where your skin is most likely to age gracefully, supported by data and scientific insight.
1. Minnesota: The Nation’s Most Skin-Friendly State
Wrinkle Risk Score: 29.7 | UV Index: 6 (Low) | Smoking: 15% | Stress: 32 | Air Quality Index: 38
Minnesota tops the list for wrinkle-safe living thanks to a combination of low stress, minimal UV exposure, and healthy lifestyle habits. With cleaner air and some of the lowest stress scores in the country, it sets a high bar for skin longevity.
2. Nebraska: Low Stress, Low Sun, Low Wrinkle Risk
Wrinkle Risk Score: 34.6 | UV Index: 7 (Moderate) | Smoking: 15% | Stress: 32 | Air Quality Index: 37
Nebraska provides a well-balanced environment where no single factor significantly contributes to wrinkle risk. With low smoking rates, moderate sun exposure, and minimal stress, it stands as an underrated haven for healthy skin aging.
3. New Hampshire: Cool Air, Clean Living
Wrinkle Risk Score: 36.0 | UV Index: 6 (Low) | Smoking: 16% | Stress: 32 | Air Quality Index: 39
This New England state blends fresh air with relatively low stress and health-conscious living. While winters can be long, they may actually protect skin from cumulative sun damage.
4. Vermont: Wrinkle Risk Kept at Bay
Wrinkle Risk Score: 36.4 | UV Index: 6 (Low) | Smoking: 16% | Stress: 43 | Air Quality Index: 39
Vermont’s favorable wrinkle-risk profile is attributed to limited UV exposure and low smoking rates. While stress levels are slightly higher than in neighboring states, the overall lifestyle promotes healthy, graceful aging.
5. Massachusetts: Balanced and Resilient
Wrinkle Risk Score: 38.3 | UV Index: 7 (Moderate) | Smoking: 14% | Stress: 37 | Air Quality Index: 41
Massachusetts offers a well-rounded profile: low smoking, clean air, and moderate UV exposure. This combination makes it one of the most balanced states for maintaining youthful skin, particularly in its urban and suburban areas.
6. Alaska: Cold, Calm, and Skin-Conscious
Wrinkle Risk Score: 39.9 | UV Index: 1 (Very Low) | Smoking: 21% | Stress: 51 | Air Quality Index: 29
Despite long winters and higher stress levels, Alaska’s extremely low sun exposure and excellent air quality help mitigate other risks. In terms of skin aging, the state’s climate can actually provide protective benefits.
7. Utah: Clean Air, Low Smoking
Wrinkle Risk Score: 40.3 | UV Index: 8 (High) | Smoking: 9% | Stress: 39 | Air Quality Index: 51
Utah boasts the lowest smoking rate in the U.S., earning its place on this list despite strong UV exposure. For those who consistently use sun protection, Utah offers excellent lifestyle factors that support skin longevity.
8. Wisconsin: Middle of the Road and Skin-Safe
Wrinkle Risk Score: 42.2 | UV Index: 7 (Moderate) | Smoking: 16% | Stress: 37 | Air Quality Index: 40
With moderate scores across most risk indicators, Wisconsin is on this list through consistency. Relatively low stress levels and solid air quality create a quietly protective environment for skin health.
9. Connecticut: Quiet Strength
Wrinkle Risk Score: 42.4 | UV Index: 7 (Moderate) | Smoking: 13% | Stress: 38 | Air Quality Index: 45
Connecticut’s low smoking rate and stable environmental profile make it a reliable choice for healthy skin aging. Even with average sun exposure, the state’s overall health habits keep wrinkle risk down.
10. Iowa: Calm and Collected
Wrinkle Risk Score: 42.7 | UV Index: 7 (Moderate) | Smoking: 17% | Stress: 36 | Air Quality Index: 38
Completing the top 10, Iowa’s calm pace and clean environment foster long-term skin health. While it may not stand out, it proves consistently effective in managing wrinkle risk.
Full State Ranking: Wrinkle Risk Scores for All 50 States
For those who want to see the complete breakdown, here’s how all 50 U.S. states rank based on their wrinkle risk. Scores are calculated using a composite of five weighted factors known to accelerate skin aging:
- UV Index (30%)
- Smoking Rate (25%)
- Sleep Deficiency (20%)
- Stress Score (15%)
- Air Quality Index (10%)
Each state receives a total score out of 100. The higher the score, the greater the wrinkle risk.
For details on how each factor was scored and weighted, see the Methodology section below.
How to Reduce Wrinkle Risk—Wherever You Live
Our environment plays a bigger role in skin aging than many people realize. While we can’t always control factors like air quality or UV intensity, we can take steps to reduce the impact of those stressors on our skin.
Here are some practical, evidence-informed ways to support skin longevity—especially for those in higher-risk states:
- Use broad-spectrum SPF daily. Even in cooler or cloudier climates, UV radiation remains one of the most powerful—and preventable—drivers of skin aging. Choose sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, apply it generously 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
- Wear protective clothing. Clothes such as hats, sunglasses with UV protection, and UPF-rated garments are recommended. Seek shade, particularly during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Support skin repair through sleep and stress management. Chronic stress and insufficient sleep both disrupt collagen production and skin regeneration over time.
- Avoid tobacco exposure. Smoking is consistently associated with premature wrinkling, reducing blood flow to the skin, and slowing wound healing—factors that can also hinder the effectiveness of aesthetic treatments.
- Limit pollution exposure where possible. In states with poor air quality, consider indoor air filters and antioxidant-rich skincare to help reduce the effects of airborne irritants.
- Schedule regular checkups with a dermatologist and monitor your skin for any changes.
Expert Insight: Environment Matters
“As clinicians, we often talk about the importance of sun protection, but this data reminds us that environmental factors like stress, pollution, and smoking can be just as impactful. Skin aging isn’t only about genetics—it’s about daily exposures. Fortunately, many of the most effective interventions are also the simplest.”
— Dr. Simone Hartley, MD, Aesthetic Medicine Educator at HubMedEd
Further Learning: HubMedEd Training Modules
Want to go deeper into the science of skin aging?
Explore our advanced training modules on facial anatomy, rejuvenation, and aging treatment techniques—designed to help professionals deliver impactful, evidence-based care.
Access the full course library at hubmeded.com/masterclasses
Conclusion: A Summer Skincare Reminder
As we head into the summer months, it’s worth remembering that skin aging is shaped by more than genetics—it’s also influenced by where we live and how we live. From UV exposure to lifestyle stress, the environment around us can accelerate (or ease) the signs of aging.
For practitioners, this reinforces a critical point: effective aesthetic care goes beyond injectables or topicals—it starts with understanding the full picture. Environmental risk factors, patient habits, and preventative education all play a role in supporting healthy, long-term skin outcomes.
Whether you're advising patients on sun protection or exploring advanced rejuvenation treatments, staying grounded in both science and context matters.
Want to stay ahead this season?
Explore HubMedEd’s training modules to deepen your clinical knowledge and deliver care that’s not only evidence-based—but truly patient-centered.
Methodology + Sources
This study ranks all 50 U.S. states by their relative risk for premature skin aging, using a composite Wrinkle Risk Score based on five evidence-backed environmental and behavioral metrics. Each factor was selected for its proven impact on skin health, and scores were weighted to reflect their influence on wrinkle formation and visible aging.
Scoring Method
Each state received a final score out of 100 based on five normalized metrics:
- UV Index (30%)
- Smoking Rate (25%)
- Sleep Deficiency (20%)
- Stress Score (15%)
- Air Quality Index (10%)
All scores were calculated using the most recent available data from 2023–2024, normalized to a 0–100 scale. Higher scores indicate greater risk.
Metric Details & Sources
UV Index
Reflects average annual noon-hour UV exposure by state. UV radiation is a primary driver of photoaging and cumulative skin damage.
Source: EPA UV Index / NOAA
Smoking Rate
Shows the percentage of adults who are current smokers—one of the most significant lifestyle factors linked to premature wrinkles.
Source: CDC Adult Cigarette Use
Sleep Deficiency
Captures the share of adults who regularly get fewer than 7 hours of sleep per night. Insufficient sleep impairs skin regeneration and contributes to visible aging.
Source: CDC BRFSS
Stress Score
Drawn from WalletHub’s annual ranking of the most and least stressed states, incorporating work, financial, and health-related pressures.
Source: WalletHub Stress Rankings (2025)
Air Quality Index (AQI)
Based on EPA state-level air quality data, including pollutants like ozone and fine particulate matter—both of which can accelerate oxidative stress in the skin.
Source: EPA Air Quality Data
Each state’s Wrinkle Risk Score reflects the weighted average of these five metrics.