It's an unchangeable fact of life that as you get older, your skin ages, and unfortunately, there's not much you can do to turn back the clock. As you age, your skin stops manufacturing collagen, which helps to keep your skin firm, and elastin, which helps to keep your skin pliable and resilient, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Moisturizing your skin with specific oils and including certain beneficial oils in your diet may help to decrease some of the signs of aging skin. Always consult your doctor before taking dietary supplements.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a versatile oil that can be used both internally and externally to help diminish the signs of aging skin. According to Michael Zimmermann, M.D., in his book "Burgerstein's Handbook of Nutrition: Micronutrients in the Prevention and Therapy of Disease," including two to three tablespoons of plant-derived oils, such as olive oil, high in antioxidant nutrients in your daily diet can help to protect your skin from the oxidative damage that causes wrinkles. Additionally, topical application of olive oil may help to combat signs of aging skin, including skin damage and inflammation, according to Zeev Weesman, professor of biotechnology at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, in his book "Desert Olive Oil Cultivation: Advanced Bio Technologies."
Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil is an antioxidant-rich oil that has beneficial effects for aging skin. According to the book "Textbook of Aging Skin," topical application of vitamin E oil promotes smoothing of the fine lines and wrinkles associated with aging skin. Vitamin E capsules can be purchased in most grocery and drug stores. To obtain the oil, simply puncture the outer capsule and squeeze the oil into a small bowl. Apply to affected areas of your skin daily for maximal benefits.
Almond Oil
Almond oil is an ingredient in many over-the-counter moisturizing and anti-aging products, and with good reason. According to biochemist and medical writer Cindy Jones in her book "Herbs for Healthy Skin," almond oil mixed with anti-aging essential oils, such as rose geranium or chamomile oil, is an effective barrier for keeping a high moisture content in aging skin, helping your skin to stay soft and supple. You can purchase high-quality almond oil in most health and vitamin stores. Apply the oil to your skin in the morning and evening in place of your normal moisturizer.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology: Aging Skin
- "Burgerstein's Handbook of Nutrition: Micronutrients in the Prevention and Therapy of Disease"; Michael Zimmerman, Ph.D; 2001
- "Desert Olive Oil Cultivation: Advanced Bio Technologies"; Zeev Wiesman, Ph.D; 2009
- "Textbook of Aging Skin"; Miranda A. Farage, Kenneth W. Miller and Howard I. Maibach; 2010
- "Herbs for Healthy Skin"; Cindy Jones, Ph.D; 2002
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