Skin undergoes several changes as you age, whether you want it to or not. Collagen and elastin gradually start to fade away, making skin less flexible and elastic. Wrinkles develop in conjunction with this change, which also causes loose and sagging skin. The glowing tone of your skin can also start to fade over time. Although you may not be able to prevent these developments forever, there are many things you can do to delay and slow the effects of aging, and the younger you are when you start these strategies, the more effective they will be at keeping skin looking healthy and young.
Step 1
Apply sunblock before heading out into the sun. Sunlight is possibly the most damaging element when it comes to your skin showing age -- the ultraviolet rays zap the skin of moisture and nutrients, including collagen. Even sun exposure at young ages can accelerate the rate at which your skin starts to lose its health and go into aging decline. Sunscreen will guard against the damage incurred by these rays while also moisturizing your skin.
Step 2
Stop smoking, or don't start. Smoking narrows blood vessels in your skin and decreases the flow of blood to your skin cells, depriving them of nutrients and accelerating the aging process. According to MayoClinic.com, smoking also depletes the collagen and elastin content in your skin, weakening it and making the skin less elastic.
Step 3
Drink plenty of water throughout the day -- at least eight glasses daily. Hydrating your body will also hydrate your skin, keeping it healthy and less susceptible to damage.
Step 4
Eat a diet rich in fiber, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. According to DailyGlow.com, consuming these nutrients can protect the skin cells from damage by forces both internal -- such as free radicals and consumed toxins -- and external, such as the sun's rays. Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables throughout the day. MayoClinic.com also recommends consuming foods high in vitamin C, which can promote younger looking skin -- this nutrient can be found in many fortified fruit juices, as well as oranges, strawberries and cantaloupe.
Step 5
Cleanse your skin gently, avoiding hot, scalding water and harsh chemical cleansers. Use warm water and gentle skin cleansers, and limit your bath time -- long periods of soaking can strip your skin of oils that keep it healthy.
Things You'll Need
- Sunscreen
Member Comments