The Best Skin Care Is Preventive Skin Care
Anti-aging creams and serums can work to clear up some signs of aging. However, the best skin care is preventive skin care. Creating healthy skin care habits now will help prevent signs of aging in the future.
Skip tanning beds and stay out of the sun
Sun damage is one of the biggest culprits of aging. Over time, too many tans and sunburns will lead to wrinkles, age spots, and leathery skin. Prevent sun damage by applying sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 every day. When spending time outside, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours and after being in the water. People should also stay out of the sun as much as possible between 10am. and 2pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Check your moisturizer’s ingredients
As people age, the body produces less collagen and sebum, leading to skin that is thinner and drier. One of the biggest culprits of fine lines and wrinkles is dehydrated skin. Moisturize twice a day with a quality moisturizer. What is a quality moisturizer? Products don’t necessarily have to be expensive. Look for anything with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Avoid ingredients like sodium sulfate, which can be harsh on skin.
Pat, don’t rub
When applying skin care products, rubbing or tugging motions can irritate skin. Since older skin is more fragile, even mild trauma can cause wrinkles. Use gentle patting to apply skin care products. Additionally, studies have shown that sleeping facedown against a pillow can cause sleep wrinkles. Err on the side of caution and avoid harsh pulling or rubbing at skin.
You are what you eat
Diet doesn’t just impact the waistline. What a person eats can affect the appearance of skin as well. Most people know that too many greasy, fried foods can clog pores and cause breakouts. Conversely, eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can make skin smoother and more moisturized.
If you smoke, quit
Smoking has been directly linked to wrinkles and aging skin. Tobacco contains toxins that cause skin to dry out and appear duller. Quitting smoking will not only lead to younger-looking skin, but kicking the habit can greatly improve overall health and reduce a person’s risk of many preventable diseases.
What does the future of your skin hold?
Daily habits will directly affect what a person’s skin looks like in 1 year, 5 years, and for the rest of life. Talk to a dermatologist about preventive skin care and habits that can make skin look younger for years to come.
