Skin will age. It's inevitable. As we grow older, our bodies produce less collagen--protein fibers that support the outer layer of skin--which causes skin to sag, wrinkle and form deep creases. People in their 20s have four times as much collagen as people in their 80s, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Although it's impossible to avoid the natural process, there are natural ways to slow it.
Wear Sunscreen
Ultraviolet light from the sun is notoriously harmful to the skin. UV rays can not only cause skin cancer, but also promote the occurrence of dangerous, unstable oxygen molecules in the body called free radicals. Free radicals attack and weaken collagen, making the skin prone to drooping and wrinkling. Wearing sunscreen can help protect the skin from UV rays and decrease the production of free radicals. The Mayo Clinic recommends applying generous amounts of sunscreen 30 minutes before going into the sun, which will allow the protective elements of the lotion to be absorbed by your skin.
Take Vitamins C and E
Vitamins C and E are powerful anti-oxidants that are excellent for the skin. The anti-oxidants in both vitamins help neutralize and rid the body of skin-damaging free radicals. In addition, vitamin C may enhance the production of collagen, while vitamin E may reduce facial lines and rough skin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The vitamins are beneficial for skin when consumed or applied topically. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and grapefruits, as well as strawberries, papaya, broccoli, collard greens and red and green bell peppers. Vitamin E is found in foods such as wheat germ oil, blueberries, sunflower seeds, almonds and spinach.
Drink Green Tea
Green tea is another potent anti-oxidant that can help reduce signs of aging. The tea is abundant in the anti-oxidant polyphenol ECCG, which is fundamental to healthy, taut skin because it reactivates dying skin cells, according to a 2003 led study by Dr. Stephen Hsu of the Medical Collage of Georgia. The website Natural News also notes that green tea mitigates exposure to UV light, thus reducing the risk of skin cancer and the production of free radicals.
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