It is inevitable that, as our biological clocks tick by, our skin becomes more sensitive, dull and dry. Fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin start to give cause for concern each time we face a mirror. That, unfortunately, is life and that, consequently, is the reason why adopting an anti-aging skin care strategy is essential.
We are talking “skin care” which means all the things that we can do to slow the inevitable, not just what products to use. As a foundation, here are the top 10 “life” tips for that youthful skin which everyone desires:
1. Avoid sun, or more correctly UV exposure, it’s your skin’s number one enemy! Too much sun will prematurely age your skin, can burn your skin and may even cause skin cancer. If you really need to be outdoors, then apply a broad spectrum (UVA & UVB) protective cream twenty minutes before exposure, one with a sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher. Re-apply as needed. Also, always be ready with an umbrella, hat, and sunglasses to shield your skin against the sun’s blazing rays.
2. Drink lots and lots of fluids. Keeping your skin regularly hydrated with water and fresh fruit juices will give you a healthier and firmer looking skin. Dehydrated skin cuases the fine lines which become wrinkles. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day also washes out harmful toxins from the body, these too can cause premature skin aging.
3. Eat healthy. Proper nutrition plays an important role in anti-aging skin care treatment. Focus more on fresh fruits and vegetables, and fiber rich foods. Avoid desserts, junk foods and fried foods as much as you can. Sweets and treats can cause skin breakouts, making your skin look old.
4. Take skin beneficial vitamins, anti-oxidants and supplements that are truly advantageous to skin. Vitamins A, C and E, beta-carotene and lycopene are great anti-oxidants. They can protect your skin from harsh free radicals that will ultimately damage cells and cause diseases.
5. Exercise. Don’t you just love how your skin glows right after working out? Exercising at least 3x a week will guarantee a healthier and more toned skin. If you find the gym boring or scary, engage in sports that interest you. Or, do some brisk walking in the morning or walk the dog—anything that keeps your blood pumping! And, its good for your dog too!
6. Early to bed, early to rise and sleep like a baby. Depriving yourself of sleep or sleeping in late can ruin your skin and make it look old—not to mention it can also cause those panda-like dark circles and bags under your eyes. Plus, skin regenerates best while you are sleeping, so get that much needed beauty rest.
7. You know you really should, so give it up! Generally, smokers look older than their real age and have more wrinkles than non-smokers. Smoking dehydrates the skin, which leads to skin cracking and breaking. Quit smoking to not only prevent wrinkles and other signs of aging, but to also add more valuable years to your life.
8. Sometimes, less is more! Wearing too much cosmetics can clog up your pores and cause many skin problems, which can contribute to premature aging. Light make-up like blush-on, lip gloss, and sheer foundation should be fine. Don’t forget to remove make-up traces before going to bed. Otherwise, you’ll greet the morning with an impending pimple or blackhead.
9. Smile for an express face-lift, free of charge! People forget just how beneficial it is to smile—it effortlessly provides an instant blush to your face. Besides, it takes more muscles to frown than to smile.
10. Select your skin care products sensibly. Use a firming cream or moisturizer at night and a quality UV protective cream during the day. Choose anti-aging products that contain key ingredients, such as collagen, Vitamin A, retinoids, Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids (AHAs and BHAs) to have a clearer and more youthful complexion. Exfoliate weekly to remove dead skin cells to reveal a fresh looking skin and further prevent wrinkles.
You can take off years and maintain a youthful complexion by following these tips.
Why would you not want to?
