The key to aging gracefully is to have beautiful skin, despite your age. However, there are many ways in which pollution, UV rays and not eating a healthy diet can ruin your skin. Some can even experience premature aging because of these reasons. The only way to prevent this is by early protection which you can do from an early age.
Protecting the skin from the sun is very important from a young age. This is because as we age, the efficiency and ability of skin cells to fight toxins slows down. The skin easily looks dull, pale with an increased risk of skin cancer. So, you need to wear a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even in winter or indoors.
- Avoid Sun Exposure
If possible, plan your activities before 11am or after 3pm, when the sun is not too hot. UV index is a real thing and can increase the amount of sun damage, if one is outside when the sun index (burning ability) is at its highest. Even if you have to be in the hot sun from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., try to use body protection, in addition to sunscreen which must be re-applied every 2 hours.
- Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
The author of The Blue Zones, Dan Buettner, studies life longevity around the world. In his study, Dan Buettner found that those who looked younger and lived longer usually ate more nuts and seeds than meat. According to him, food sources of omega-3 acids such as salmon and walnuts can also stabilize mood, maintain bone strength, while preventing signs of aging on the skin.
- Use Topical Vitamin A or Retinol
Retinol or vitamin A have been getting the reputation from the skincare world as the solution to ageless skin. This is because topical vitamin A is known to counteract sun damage and promote collagen production. Some examples of topical Vitamin A are tretinoin, retinol and adapalene which are often found in antiaging creams.
Another solution to keep the skin young and youthful is to sleep well. Getting poor sleep not only leaves you feeling tired, but can cause a myriad of skin problems such as swollen eyes, dark under eye circles, wrinkles and fine lines. All in all, it results to a dull complexion. Getting deep REM sleep at night time is where the skin regenerates, so healthy sleep is extremely important for beautiful skin.
What tricks do you use to stay healthy? Share your experience in the comment section below!
