The formula for youthful-looking skin lies in using the right skin-care products which can make a big difference in your complexion and help avoid signs of aging. Your skin is a living organ that changes over time and adjusting your skin care to accommodate these changes will help your skin stay healthy and looking its best. Here are some tips that can age-proof your skin:
Gentler Face Wash
When you cleanse your skin, use a gentle touch and formula. Skin tends to get less oily and more sensitive. So even if you still get adult acne breakouts, you may want to use a gentler face wash instead of a drying acne wash.
Be sure to use a light hand, cleansing in gentle, circular motions. Aggressive scrubbing could irritate already sensitive skin and accelerate aging.
Retinoids
Over time, skin can begin losing collagen, the protein responsible for keeping it looking smooth and lifted. This can result in a creased look. The best line of defense touted is to use a retinoid, the prescription-strength version of vitamin A. Thirties is a good age to start this regimen. Ease into the medication with an application 2-3 times a week, and working up to nightly as your skin gets used to it. Gentler forms of over-the-counter retinoid skin creams are also available. Avoid using retinoids at the same time as benzoyl peroxide, a medicine used to treat acne because it can oxidize some retinoids, making them less effective.
SPF
Regular use of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher is a must to keep your skin healthy and prevent age spots and discoloration. But not all sunscreens are alike when it comes to ensuring supple skin. Switch to a more moisturizing sunscreen cream, and avoid alcohol-containing sprays and gels that can dry out your skin. Also, look for sunscreens that contain antioxidants to protect the collagen in your skin.
Face Cream
Because oil glands can become less active as you age, moisturizing properly to minimize fine lines and wrinkles is important. The simple act of switching your normal face cream for a richer one will help trap water against the skin, pumping up those deep crevices. As an added bonus, smooth the formula down to your neck and upper torso to treat those areas as well.
Food
Much of what happens on the outside of your body is the result of what you put in it. It’s important to eat foods that nourish the skin over the years. Avoid anything that can dehydrate like alcohol. Foods high in sugar and white carbohydrates can actually age you faster by breaking down glucose. Instead go for more protein in your diet, including foods like fish, lean meats, beans, and legumes to help build strong collagen. Also foods high in vitamin C can help keep skin looking youthful.
Supplements
Can a pill restore dewiness in aging skin? Maybe. Omega-3s found in certain seafood, like salmon, can help keep skin moist and may even delay its maturing process by preventing wrinkles. If you don’t eat fish or fish products, try fish oil or flaxseed oil supplements. It’ll help keep your skin supple by replenishing your skin’s own lipids which diminish with time. It’s also anti-inflammatory if you suffer from adult acne. Always check with your doctor before using supplements.
Exfoliate
Our skin sheds dead cells regularly, creating a new layer every 28 days. But that process can slow over time leading to a dull-looking complexion and rough patches. To help remove that buildup, exfoliate weekly for brighter skin. Use a scrub with round particles so it’s less irritating and avoid products made with plastic microbeads.
