When we think about aging skin we automatically think wrinkles. Wrinkles and fine lines are not the cause, but the effect of aging skin. They are a byproduct of the aging process. So, when discussing anti-aging what exactly are we trying to accomplish or fix. Where do those damn wrinkles come from? Key Anti-aging principals: #1 Control the environmental effect of aging skin
- Sunscreen protects you from the suns damaging rays that creates age spots, damage to your collagen and free-radicals. Sunscreen does not prevent skin cancer. It prevents possible damage to your skin cells that in turn can cause skin cancer.
- The environment: Air pollution and sun damage causes free radicals.
- Antioxidants are the super heroes that fight the damaging free-radicals. Daily application of antioxidants are key to keep your skin cells healthy and vibrant.
#2 Control inflammation effect on aging skin
- Inflammation comes from diseases, environmental pollutants, irritating skin treatments, injuries and bad habits (alcohol and sugar.)
- Treat your skin gently, don’t over exfoliate and use anti-inflammatory ingredients like lavender, pomegranate, ginger, green and white tea and you’ll keep the fine lines from settling in.
#3 Control sagging This is much more difficult to prevent. With age our skin and face muscles sag. In order to prevent this you can do a couple things:
- DMAE- an ingredient that acts like a bandaid reducing fine lines and sagging for the day but with repeated use you are keeping things firm and in place. The less you let those lines and sags set in, the less they will appear.
- Botox: If you go this route I firmly suggest you check out the work of your skin care professional from several sources before jumping in.
- Facial massage and excercises: It’s tough to tell if this one works. You have to commit to it like any routine and you need an extended period of time before you can see if it’s working. At least 30-60 days. Resist any movements that creates wrinkles as you work your muscles. No pursing of the lips, think exercises that expand rather then contract.
#4 Exfoliate
- You must remove dead skin cells in order to allow new ones to grow.
- This step needs to be done safely or you can damage your skin barrier allowing the environmental pollution to penetrate as well as swelling and irritation to form. These factors can destroy dermal tissue and collagen and will age you faster.
- Exfoliate 2-3 times a week and always wear sun protection for up to a week after.
If you are better educated on what causes those pesky wrinkles you are better prepared to fight their appearance. Proper, gentle and effective skin care products are just part of the arsenal needed to keep your skin young and dewy. ]]>