6 Tricks For Slowing Skin’s Aging Process
By the time we reach our 30s and 40s, we start to take a closer look in the mirror and see the seemingly inevitable signs of aging slowly appearing. While we can’t prevent ourselves from getting older, we can reduce the appearance of the typical signs of aging. So before you panic over those fine lines and wrinkles, take a look at our list of tricks for slowing the skin’s aging process.
- Protect Yourself From the Sun
Believe it or not, sun exposure is one of the main culprits behind our aged and damaged skin. Our beautiful star in the sky is quite dangerous if precautions aren’t taken, thanks to the ultraviolet rays constantly being showered down upon us. These rays contain particularly high levels of radiation and it is this radiation that interacts with our skin cells, mutating our DNA and causing multiple physical and molecular changes. From sunburns to sunspots, dry skin, wrinkles, and even skin cancer, can all be contributed to unprotected sun exposure. This is why wearing sunscreen is imperative. No matter the weather or time of year, the sun is always emitting radiation, and therefore sunscreen and protective clothing must be worn and applied.
Consistently wearing sunscreen, especially with added moisturizers, can go a long way in helping you keep your youthful look. Less crepe skin, reduced wrinkles and fine lines, and of course smoother and softer skin are all benefits of wearing daily sunscreen.
- Quit Smoking
Thanks to the laws that were passed in the last few decades, we have all become aware of the dangers of smoking. But smoking doesn’t just lead to lung cancer and other respiratory issues, it also ages you dramatically. It isn’t a joke. Smoking cigarettes can age you significantly and is said to take a least 10 years off of your life. Skin discoloration, teeth yellowing, and deep wrinkles are all symptoms of nicotine addiction. So if you are currently a smoker and wish to turn back the hands of time on your skin’s aging, quit smoking now.
- Limit Alcohol
Similar to cigarettes, alcohol affects more than our internal systems. It can be cruel to the skin overtime. Too much alcohol consumption is said to dry out the skin, leaving it rough, cracked, and increases your chances of developing deep wrinkles.
- Watch What You Eat
Recently, we have discovered that diets high in sugars and carbohydrates have a negative effect on the skin. With all of these diet fads floating around, it’s hard to sift through the exaggerations and find the truth. The fact of the matter is, we really are what we eat. This is why sugary and oily foods result in an overproduction of sebum (our body’s natural oil) and can cause acne. But acne isn’t your only issue. Sugar can also speed up a process called glycation in which sugar molecules are bonded to a protein or fat creating a new dangerous molecule appropriately called AGEs, or Advanced Glycation End products. These mean molecules go to work in breaking down the elastin and collagen in your skin resulting in sagging and wrinkled skin. A high concentration of AGEs can be found in fried foods, sugary foods and beverages, red meats, certain cheeses, and other oily and fatty foods.
- Exercise Regularly
You probably know by now that regular exercise benefits you and your body in just about every way. So, it probably comes at no surprise that it can even slow the aging process. Exercise is a good way to improve blood circulation and boost the immune system making you generally healthy. When you’re healthy, you look it, and this can help you look younger!
- Wash Your Face Gently
Washing your face rids your skin of impurities that can instantly age you, but you must be careful with the products you use and how you use them. Harsh cleansers can truly harm your skin and instead of giving yourself that warm glow, you could end up stripping your skin of its natural moisturizers leaving it cracked and dry which may result in wrinkles. Be sure to use soft soaps and cleansers and apply them gently. Scrubbing your face down to the bone will not help you reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging. On the contrary, you’re actually speeding things up by putting your skin through the wringer. So remember, soft soaps with a soft touch and once you’re finished, immediately apply non-oil-based moisturizers to help you maintain smooth soft skin.
If you follow these tips and apply them to your daily life, you may find that you are turning back the hands of time.
If you are in the Cincinnati, Ohio area, and want more information or other anti-aging treatment options, reach out to our experts at The Dermatology Group and we can help! Give us a call today!