Your skin can make you look older or younger than you actually are. Dryness, age spots and wrinkles can cause you to appear aged, while smooth, supple and healthy skin can give you a youthful appearance. Some skin maladies are inherited, but many of the pitfalls of aging skin can be prevented or delayed by taking good care of your skin during your younger years.
Step 1
Establish a good skin-care routine. The Mayo Clinic suggests caring for your skin gently, especially as you grow older. Use mild cleansers and avoid strong or fragranced soaps. Bathe in tepid or warm water, and avoid very hot baths and showers. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing briskly with a towel. Since older skin tends to be dry, apply an appropriate moisturizer regularly.
Step 2
Protect your skin from sun damage. The American Academy of Dermatology states that most wrinkles are caused by sun exposure. Wear wide-brimmed hats to keep the sun off of your face, and apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. Avoid being outdoors during the hours when the sun's rays are the strongest, which are usually from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Step 3
Eat a balanced and healthful diet. The Mayo Clinic recommends a diet filled with healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. Increasing your intake of vitamin C and reducing the amount of fat and the number of carbohydrates in your diet may make your skin look and feel better.
Step 4
Examine your lifestyle and habits. Smoking and excess stress can wreak havoc on your skin and can make your look older than you are. Try to reduce the amount of stress in your life if possible. If you smoke, quit. Smoking can make skin less elastic, contributing to wrinkles, and it also robs the skin of oxygen and vitamin A, both of which keep you looking younger and more healthy.
Step 5
See your dermatologist right away if you notice any skin problems. Excessive dryness, skin lesions and age spots are often harmless but can sometimes indicate skin cancer. Talk to your doctor about cosmetic procedures that may reduce the appearance of any lesions that you see on your face or body.
Tips and Warnings
- The American Academy of Dermatology suggests looking for a lotion containing petrolatum or lanolin and applying it after each bath or shower. If you are trying to quit smoking, talk to your doctor about treatments that may help.
Things You'll Need
- Mild facial cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hat
Member Comments