5 Tips to Fight Aging

We all worry about preventing our skin from aging at some point. Getting an early start is a great idea. There are lifestyle changes you can make in your 20’s and early 30’s to prevent or delay some early signs of aging. You could take advantage of some tips to fight aging even if you already are showing fine lines, sunspots or just subtle signs.

Skincare is important if you want to keep beautiful skin for as long as possible and tips to fight aging could make all of the difference.

Aside from making an appointment with your dermatologist, you can do some things on your own that will significantly improve your complexion, tighten your skin and even smooth those telltale lines.

Use SPF daily

The sun is one of the biggest causes of premature aging. A little Vitamin D is good for you but even on overcast days sun exposure is damaging to your skin. Staying in the shade, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses will help but nothing should take the place of daily sunscreen. Protect all areas of your body that are exposed to sunlight with a water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF in 30 or above. 

Also, don’t forget that UV rays from tanning beds are even more damaging.  If you must tan, use a lotion or spray self-tanner. 

Drink more water and less alcohol

Water has amazing anti-aging benefits. Staying properly hydrated is not only good for you inside but it’s great for the appearance of your skin. It reduces the appearance of fine lines in your skin and can give your skin a healthy glow. 

Not drinking enough water leads to dehydration which makes your skin puffy and can lead to bloating. On that same note, alcohol is dehydrating to your skin and dilates blood vessels. Too much alcohol can also lead to bloating and redness of your skin which doesn’t do any good in your anti-aging efforts. 

Cleanse Daily and Gently

Washing your face in the morning and in the evening, especially to remove makeup or after sweaty exercise, is important. The type of cleanser you use is equally important. Alkaline bar soap or cleansers with alcohol are too harsh on aging skin. Use a gentle cleanser made for your skin type and use warm water (not too hot or cold) to rinse. 

Being gentle to your skin also means don’t use a rough washcloth to apply your cleaner and don’t over-exfoliate. Daily exfoliation is unnecessary and can damage fragile layers of skin. 

Moisturize

A daily moisturizer, preferrable one with an SPF, helps retain moisture in your skin. Like with drinking enough water, properly hydrated skin looks and feels younger. 

Apply your moisturizer immediately after washing your face in the morning for the best absorption and results. 

Use Retinol/Antioxidants and Peptides

Retinol serums can be purchased without a prescription and generally can be as effective as a Retinoid from your dermatologist. If you are in your 20’s or have minimal skin damage you don’t necessarily need Retinol yet. 

Instead, at any age, you can opt for a cream or serum that contains antioxidants and peptides. Many cleaners and serums contain Vitamins A, C, and E as well as resveratrol or green tea which can work in conjunction with your daily SPF to prevent damage from the sun and your environment. Use these products before applying your daily moisturizers for the best results.