As we age, the signs of life display themselves on our skin. All of our experiences – laughs, smiles, tears, frustration – begin to show in fine lines and wrinkles. Our skin can become dull, or grow dark spots, making us yearn for our once-youthful complexion. Well, you can’t stop time, but you can roll it back a little. If you’re hoping to achieve younger looking skin, try implementing these strategies to regain your glow.
- Take Cover
As much as you might love soaking up the sun, it really is your worst enemy. UVA and UVB rays break down collagen and elastin – the key qualities to firmness. To keep your skin supple, become UV obsessed and be sure to apply a broad-spectrum SPF every morning.
- Look Out for Your Eyes
While big sunglasses certainly help shield your skin from damaging UV rays, you should take your protection a step further with nightly eye cream. Retinoids are Vitamin A derivatives that speeds cell turnover and stimulates collagen growth to smooth fine lines are fade brown spots. Wear a retinoid cream around your eyes at night to wake up looking younger.
- Don’t be Lazy
Just because you’re exhausted doesn’t mean you get a free pass on washing your face. It’s important to suds up at night to remove the dirt, bacteria, and makeup built up on your face. Removing that layer of grime will allow anti-aging skincare to penetrate more deeply for better results.
- Build Collagen
Collagen, the main structural protein in our cellular makeup, is the magical stuff that keeps the skin plump and smooth. Without collagen, your skin appears aged and takes on a leathery texture. You can produce more of this key building block through supplements and specified skin care products.
- Moisturize Frequently
For a dewy complexion, moisturize your skin regularly in order to boost your cell regeneration. At night, thick and creamy face masks can work wonders on wrinkles.
- Fade Dark Spots
Wrinkles take a bad rap, but it’s actually dark spots that will cause your skin to appear older. To fade your spots, wear creams containing both lighteners and exfoliates all over your face, not just over the imperfections.
- Fight Free Radicals
Antioxidants are the superheroes of skin care, protecting your skin against environmental evils, known as free radicals. Protect your skin every morning with a cocktail of antioxidants, especially with formulas rich in Vitamin A and C.
- Manage Stress
Emotional upheavals can make your skin look five years older than your age. Constant anxiety leads to an increased production of cortisol, a stress hormone known to break down collagen and cause inflammation. The next time you’re overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths. Your skin will thank you.
- Get Proper Rest
Ever heard of beauty sleep? Your skin repairs itself while you’re sleeping, and not getting enough of it can lead to a sallow, dull complexion – not to mention those dreaded eye bags.
- Limit Your Coffee Intake
If you’re not getting enough sleep, and drinking too much coffee to compensate, you’re worsening the damage to your skin. Coffee is dehydrating, and will make your skin appear dull and wrinkles more pronounced. Quench your thirsty skin with a super hydrating serum.
- Improve Your Diet
To quell inflammation, eat antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, oranges, and asparagus. You should also eat more Omega-3s. These ‘good fats’, found in foods such as salmon, flaxseed, and almonds boost hydration to keep skin supple and firm.
- Take Supplements
If you can’t get all that good stuff into your diet, be sure to take a supplement instead. Vitamins for anti-aging are great options for busy moms and professionals.
- Quit Smoking
For a youthful appearance, toss those cigarettes in the trash. They lead to wrinkles, pigmentation and all-around bad skin. With enough pollution in our environment, don’t self-inflict your skin with more harm.
- Exercise Regularly
Exercise infuses skin with oxygen and nutrients needed for collagen production. In order to keep your skin toned, set aside time for at least three 30-minute work outs per week.
- Hydrate Yourself
The most important tip for younger looking skin is to remain hydrated. Water makes up 65% of your body, and depriving yourself of it is a big no-no. For fabulous skin, be sure to drink eight to ten glasses of water a day.