Healthy Skin Anti-Aging Tips

Adopt these basic lifelong habits for happy body and mind.

1. Don’t Neglect the Sunscreen

This goes for everyone no matter skin type or color! Ultraviolet rays from the sun diminishes collagen and elastin causing wrinkles and sagging skin. Use an SPF 30 for fair ski and SPF 40 for outdoor days.

2. Buy Sunglasses with real UV protection

Get the real deal and buy quality UV-protection sunglasses to protect the skin around your eyes, help prevent eye problems, and stop that irritating, wrinkle-causing squinting!  It’s a win-win habit to get in to and your eyes will thank you later on.

3. Simple Flying Strategies

Flying closer to the sun?  You’re most susceptible to the UV rays coming through the window while in the air. Apply an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen before boarding, and pull the shade down if you’re in a window seat. Planes are also infamously dry so avoid salty snacks and always hydrate more than you think you may need. Using a botanical hydrating mist throughout the flight helps protect skin from dehydration.

4. Limit Your Sugar Consumption

When you eat sugary foods the sugar breaks down, bonding in the bloodstream with protein molecules, including those found in skin-supporting fibers collagen and elastin. This process, glycation, makes collagen and elastin inelastic. The horror!  What are we to do, forego sugar altogether?  No, of course not. We can make smart choices and as with everything else in life, practice moderation. We can do it and our skin will thank us!

5. Avoid Yo-yo Weight Fluctuations

Weight fluctuations affect your skin’s elasticity. Trying to stay at a relatively steady weight helps skin, too. Talk to your doctor and find a good range for your BMI (body mass index) and stick with it.

6. Get Your Sleep 7-8 Hours a Night

Sleep deprivation takes a toll on our mood and skin, as well as the rest of our bodies!  Aim for 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night allowing your body and mind to recuperate from the day.  Here are some tips on getting your best night’s sleep.

7. Nix the Sticks - Don’t Smoke

In case you have been living under a rock for the past decade and have not yet heard the news…SMOKING IS BAD FOR YOU!  Even non-smokers need to take heed as secondhand smoke leaves you vulnerable to harmful free-radicals that can lead to collagen breakdown, slowing your skins ability to rebuild and heal.  Avoid smoky environments whenever possible and give your lungs and skin a break.