Gen-Z vs Millennials: Is The Younger Generation Ageing Faster? Expert Explains

This has sparked widespread curiosity online, with questions like ‘Why does Gen-Z look older than Millennials?’ and ‘Why is Gen-Z ageing faster?’ becoming some of the most searched queries related to generational differences over the past year, according to a new Google Trends report.

To delve deeper into this topic, we spoke with Dr Geeta Shroff, Director of Nubella Centre for Women's Health, New Delhi, who shared her expert insights on the matter.

Is Gen Z Ageing Faster Than Millennials?

The notion that Gen-Z is ageing faster than Millennials has sparked widespread discussions about lifestyle, stress, and environmental factors. While it might seem exaggerated, the underlying causes behind this trend deserve closer attention.
Growing up in a digital-first, always-connected environment, Gen-Z faces unique stressors that previous generations did not. Social media, the constant pursuit of online validation, and the pervasive fear of missing out (FOMO) contribute to chronic stress.

According to Dr Geeta Shroff, “Elevated stress levels can lead to increased cortisol production, which accelerates visible signs of ageing such as skin damage, wrinkles, and premature grey hair.”
Unlike Gen-Z, Millennials came of age during the early evolution of the internet, sparing them the intense pressures of social media during their critical developmental years. “This difference in exposure may explain why Millennials appear to age more gradually compared to their younger counterparts,” explained Dr Shroff.

This observation is supported by researchers as well. According to a study by the Institute for Generation Research, Generation Z places a high value on security across all aspects of life, which can contribute to elevated stress levels and make them appear older than their actual age. Additionally, being a generation deeply immersed in digital content, Gen-Z is more frequently exposed to stress triggers.

Factors Contributing to Gen-Z Ageing Faster Than Millennials

The lifestyle choices of Gen-Z have become increasingly sedentary. With a heavy reliance on technology for education, work, and entertainment, their physical activity levels have dropped significantly. This lack of movement, coupled with poor dietary habits, irregular sleep schedules, and excessive screen time, has created ideal conditions for premature ageing.

Environmental Influences

Gen-Z is also facing the impact of environmental factors like climate change and pollution. Dr Shroff said, “Prolonged exposure to UV radiation, air pollution, and harmful chemicals often found in fast foods and skincare products commonly used by this generation can lead to skin damage and other long-term health problems.”

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Mental Health and Ageing

Known as one of the most anxious generations, Gen-Z struggles with mental health issues more prominently than Millennials did at the same age. Dr Shroff told us that anxiety and other mental health conditions can accelerate biological ageing by shortening telomeres, the protective caps on DNA that impact cellular ageing. This may explain why Gen-Z seems to be ageing faster than their Millennial counterparts.

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However, it’s not all negative for Gen-Z. This generation is highly proactive when it comes to health and wellness. Unlike Millennials, who often embraced self-care later in life, Gen-Z prioritises it early. They are diligent about skincare routines, actively discuss mental health issues, and take preventative steps to combat ageing from a young age. Their awareness and adaptability could help them mitigate some of the factors contributing to premature ageing.

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Credits: Freepik