Although aging is a natural and irreversible process, we can take steps to delay the signs of aging. Our skin is a living and breathing tissue, not just a nonliving layer covering our body. It gets easily damaged due to environmental pollution, harsh sunlight or due to exposure to free radicals. Since our face acts as the first indicator of our age, avoiding wrinkles and skin damage is vital. To delay the onset and severity of the aging process we need to keep it clean, nourish it with moisturizers and protect it from the harsh sun.
What follows are some other ways to prevent the skin from aging:
– Sun Protection — Owing to the harmful ultraviolet rays, sunlight is very damaging to the skin. Therefore, applying a sun protection lotion is necessary not only on the face, but also on the neck, arms, and hands, at least half an hour before going out into the sun. The sun protection lotion you use should protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. I have sun screens that moisturize for drier skin and oil free products for those who do not need extra moisture. All are PABA free and block UVA & UVB rays.
– Daily Regimen — One must make it a habit to cleanse and scrub the face with a suitable cleanser, apply suitable toners and moisturizers that suit your skin type. Using products that include an antioxidant (such as Vitamin C, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Spin Trap, or CoQ10) will help the skin combat damaging free radicals and encourage overall skin repair. Rejuvenating the skin with a chemical exfoliators such as alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) is absolutely necessary.
– Diet and Food — The quality of the skin reflects the kind of food we take. Taking adequate water / fluids and a vitamin rich balanced diet is necessary.
– Lifestyle Issues — Exercise improves the blood circulation to the skin and nourishes it better and improves its elasticity. Therefore, daily workouts are necessary for a clear and healthy skin. It is advisable to quit smoking and any other habits that harm the skin