Anti-aging is a very popular topic today. Let?s face it ? we all get older. But, with the scientific advances today, we can actually reverse the aging process. Be very cautious when choosing anti-aging products, however, as there are many that make claims that are not true. The claim I hear most often is that a product is a miracle cream that will remove wrinkles. WRONG. Once you have a wrinkle, you can not remove it. You can, however, reduce its visibility and depth.
The best age to start using an anti-aging product is in your 20s. Skin follows a biological timeline by decades. Wrinkles begin forming in your 20s and 30s as the skin?s elasticity declines and gravity begins to take hold. In your 40s and 50s, wrinkles become more visible as a decrease in collagen and elastin cause the skin and muscles to sag. Genetics, gravity and environmental factors also contribute to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Approximately 90% of the visible signs of aging are due to sun exposure and are avoidable. This is one reason it is so important to protect yourself from the sun before the damage is done.
The skin?s ability to hold water reduces as we age. This results in a rough-textured appearance. Good skin care helps to lessen the physical aging of the skin through topical hydration and moisturization. It is important to use the proper products in order to obtain the best results. At a minimum, you should use an anti-aging facial cleanser, toner and moisturizer. I also recommend exfoliating once a week. This will remove dead cells and help diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
If you have noticeable lines around the eyes, I recommend a corrective eye cream. This will also help with dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. Place a small dab on your ring finger and gently pat it into the skin below the eye until fully absorbed.
Diet and Nutrition
Proper diet and nutrition are also important factors for anti-aging. Key nutritional elements are omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, Coenzyme Q10 and alpha lipoic acid. I recommend taking a supplement to ensure that you are getting a sufficient amount of these elements. It is also very important to drink plenty of water.
Key elements for effective anti-aging results
Vitamin C ? promotes collagen, elastin and strength and elasticity of the skin
Alpha Lipoic Acid ? a powerful antioxidant to increase cell metabolism
Kojic Acid ? a highly effective, natural skin lightening agent that reduces the appearance of long-term sun and environmental damage
Copper ? visibly smoothes, softens and firms skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines while promoting younger looking skin
Alpha & Beta Hydroxy Acids ? activate healthy cells while diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Peptide ? improve skin roughness and lessen the appearance of wrinkle volume and depth
Sue McQueen is a health and wellness consultant. She assists clients in achieving optimal wellness through personal programs designed for each individual based on their unique needs. For more information, visit http://www.personal-health-beauty-consultant.com.
