Do you ever wish there was a magic wand that could stop you from aging? We totally get that. None of us are big fans of wrinkles and fine lines on our skin.
However, it is a natural process and can’t be reversed, unless you opt for something like botox. So let’s discuss how you can age like fine wine and retain the youthfulness of your skin for a longer time. More importantly, what can you do to prevent premature aging?
Highlights:
The Natural Aging Process
When we age, the topmost layer of the skin – the epidermis – begins to get thinner. This makes the skin look translucent and pale [1], which can make the blood vessels below the skin visible. These blood vessels also become fragile, which can cause easy bruising or bleeding.
In a process called photo aging, the sun’s UV rays affect the fibre called elastin in the skin and it breaks down, causing the skin to sag. [2]
Gravity also causes the skin around the eyebrows and eyes to droop. Your fine lines and usual facial muscle movement lines like laugh lines and crow’s feet become more prominent. Since the subcutaneous layer of fat also starts thinning out once you age, it offers less insulation and protection from external elements such as the weather and injuries.
What Are The Early Signs Of Aging?
The earliest signs of aging are fine lines and wrinkles. Fine lines can appear from as early as our 20s. In our 30s, the lines caused due to our facial expressions such as laugh lines or frown lines start to deepen. In our 40s, the skin starts to sag more and loses its tight and supple qualities.
Age spots [3] also start to appear with photo aging. These are flat, brown spots mostly seen on the back of the hands, the face, arms and feet. Usually, they are more visible on lighter skinned people. Dry skin, due to reduced production of natural oils, is also a sign of aging besides dull and itchy skin.
How To Reverse The Aging Process?
There are several procedures and simple habits one can inculcate to slow down and reverse the aging process. Here are some of them:
1. Cosmetic Procedures For Aging Skin
These days, there are several surgical and non-surgical options to reverse the aging process. From laser treatments and cool sculpting to fillers and chemical peels, plastic surgery to Botulinum Toxin (botox). Cosmetic surgery remains one of the most popular forms of retaining younger looking skin. All these treatments should only be done by qualified and experienced professionals. [4]
2. Skin Care Routine For Aging Skin
A cleansing, toning and moisturising routine is a must. Use sunscreen and anti aging creams to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You can even opt for products with natural oils such as apricot oil to reduce wrinkles. Use an under-eye cream to get rid of fine lines and dark circles.
3. Best Foods That Slow Down Aging Process
Maintain a diet that is rich in complex carbohydrates like whole grains, leafy green vegetables and fruits, low fat dairy products and lean meats. You can also include oral supplements that have antioxidants like Vitamin C. [5]
4. Home Remedies
You can apply aloe vera gel, mashed ripe banana or raw egg white. The natural oils and vitamins in banana nourish the skin; collagen boosters in aloe vera and egg white reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Applying extra virgin coconut oil is also effective.
5. Exercises
Aerobic exercises such as swimming, cardio, walking, or even yoga, can make you look years younger. Focus on your core and spine for a stronger body and an erect posture. If you start young, you will look younger for longer.
Anti Aging Tips
- To look and feel younger, avoid stress which can increase the presence of oxidants in your skin, making you look older.
- Meditation, yoga, regular exercise, adequate sleep and rest are a must for looking younger.
- Stay out of the sun or use sunscreen every time you step out.
- Opt for regular salon treatments like facials, hydration masks and exfoliation for younger looking skin.
- Wear protective clothing that covers your skin from the sun and limits your exposure to harsh sunlight.
What Foods Should You Avoid To Prevent Premature Aging?
Certain foods can make you look and feel older. Sugar is the main culprit in adding to the aging process. So cut down on your sugar intake in all forms. Avoid saturated foods that are high in trans fats and cholesterol. Reduce the amount of salt in your food too. Eating smaller portions is also easier on your body.
What Are The Effects Of Aging?
Slowing down, grey hair, wrinkles, stiffness and slower brain function are some of the effects of aging. Also, environmental exposure damages our DNA; the lack of sufficient antioxidants to undo the damage leads to oxidative stress and premature aging.
Like with everything else, if you are mindful of what you eat and apply on the skin, the aging process can be slowed down. Exercises and supplements can even help reverse it to a certain extent naturally. For younger skin, there are also several cosmetic options that can be done. Let us know what you opted for.
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