The rate at which we age is a result of internal and external factors. Internal aging is a process that is programmed within the DNA and cannot be altered, according to a 2008 report in the "International Journal of Cosmetic Science." External aging is influenced by environmental factors, such as smoking or sun damage.
Protect Yourself From The Sun
A report from Dr. Stephen Genuis in the April 2006 issue of "Canadian Family Physician" explains that exposure to sunshine increases levels of serotonin, the feel-good hormone, in the brain. Unfortunately, overexposure to sunshine can have a negative effect on aging, especially in the skin. Areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun age at a faster rate than those areas that are not often exposed, according to the New Zealand Dermatological Society. The sun's UVB rays affect the outermost layer of skin, while the UVA rays penetrate to skin cells in the middle layer of skin. The sun's infrared A, or heat, radiation goes to the deep layers of the skin's tissues. Sun damage leads to wrinkles, thinning of the skin and changes in skin color and texture. To avoid the signs of aging brought on by the sun, NZDS recommends avoiding sun exposure during the middle of the day and being lightly covered when outside. Sunscreen is important, but take note that most sunscreens only protect the skin from the sun's UVB rays, and not UVA or infrared radiation.
Eat Healthy
Proper nutrition affects every area of health, including the development and treatment of conditions such as heart disease, cancer and eye trouble, according to a report in the March-April 2009 issue of "Clinics in Dermatology." As you age, the skin loses some of its elasticity because of a decrease in collagen production, which can be a result of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
The National Cancer Institute explains that an antioxidant is a substance that protects the body from damage caused by molecules that are unstable. Antioxidants include vitamins C, E and A, as well as coenzyeme Q10, and they protect the body internally and externally from assaults that can speed up the aging process. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is key to getting enough antioxidants in your body to fight aging and keep skin healthy and youthful looking. Citrus fruits, berries, sweet potatoes, carrots, leafy greens and tea are all rich sources of antioxidants.
Colorado State University Extension reports that with aging you also lose lean body mass as well as water in the tissues. These losses can affect the appearance and texture of the skin. Replace protein and water by consuming sources of lean protein and drinking more water daily.
Quit Smoking
The 2010 issue of "Current Pharmaceutical Design" reports that smoking is a major accelerator of the aging process. Not only does it increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer, it alters the structure of the skin. The Mayo Clinic explains that nicotine narrows the blood vessels, which impedes blood flow to the skin, depriving it of important nutrients, such as antioxidant vitamins and oxygen. Cigarette smoke also degrades collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles.
Change Your Sleep Position
The American Academy of Dermatology explains that if you place your face on your pillow the same way, night after night, year after year, you will develop sleep lines---wrinkles that appear engraved into the skin and do not go away during waking hours. Sleeping on your side increases the chances of developing sleep lines, while sleeping on your back minimizes the risks. Try sleeping in a different position every few nights.
References
- International Journal of Cosmetic Science: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors in Skin Ageing
- Canadian Family Physician: Stephen J. Genuis, MD: Keeping Your Sunny Side Up: How Sunlight Affects Health and Well-being
- New Zealand Dermatological Society: Aging Skin
- PubMed: Clinics In Dermatology: The Photoprotective Activity of Nutraceuticals
- National Cancer Institute: Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention: Fact Sheet
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