As we age, our skin becomes drier, thinner, and begins to lose its elasticity due to a lack of collagen production. The process of developing lines can even be exacerbated by things such as environmental factors and lifestyle habits. While having a few wrinkles and fine lines isn’t the end of the world, there’s no shame in wanting to keep them to a minimum. Unfortunately, once you have facial lines, it can be challenging to diminish their appearance without medical or surgical intervention. Not to worry, though: There’s still hope.
With a few simple lifestyle changes, you can pump the brakes on premature aging. Below, discover the best ways to prevent lines and wrinkles.
1. Avoid extreme sun exposure.
At this point, most people know sun exposure and ultraviolet rays can be harsh on the skin. A 2013 study proved just how damaging the sun can be, but it also showed that adults who wore daily sunscreen had little to no increase in skin aging after four and a half years. To ward off signs of aging, be sure to apply sunscreen daily, and use one that contains between 30 and 50 SPF. You can also fight UV rays by wearing a wide brim hat, light-colored clothes, and sunglasses. Not only will these items keep you cool, but they will also help to reflect the sun.
2. Develop a skincare routine and stick to it.
The key to healthy skin is a thorough and consistent skincare routine.
Key steps include:
- Washing your face twice daily (or immediately after perspiring) with a gentle cleanser. Doing so will eliminate impurities such as dirt, oil, and makeup.
- When washing your face, do not scrub or harshly wipe. Instead, gently cleanse the skin with your fingertips. It may take longer, but your skin will repay you by staying wrinkle-free.
- Use products that don’t irritate your skin—this includes burning, stinging, and itching.
- Apply a daily moisturizer. A decent moisturizer will help your skin retain moisture and give you a more youthful appearance.
3. Quit smoking.
Studies show that smoking cigarettes release enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, causing accelerated aging and harsh facial lines. Research done by the Twin Research Unit at St. Thomas Hospital found that people, specifically siblings, who smoked had up to 40% thinner and more wrinkled skin than those who didn’t smoke. The answer is pretty simple: If you want healthy skin, quit smoking.
4. Exercise and eat a balanced diet.
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “You are what you eat,” and when it comes to your skin, the old saying holds a lot of value. For youthful, radiant skin, there are a few particular foods to squeeze into your diet.
While you should avoid sugars, processed foods, and refined carbs, the more helpful foods include:
- Fish—mainly fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and herring.
- Fruit—try to consume a variety of fruit, like citrus, melon, berries, etc.
- Vegetables—particularly leafy greens and other superfoods like sweet artichokes.
Incorporating exercise into your daily routine is another great way to avoid premature aging. Moving your body promotes circulation and boosts your immune system.
5. Stay hydrated.
Drinking at least 2.7 liters of water per day is essential for your body’s needs and crucial if you want flawless skin. Not only does H2O flush harmful toxins from your body and vital organs, but it also works to regulate your body’s temperature, keep your skin hydrated, and eliminate the appearance of wrinkles and lines. A study done in 2015 concluded that women with higher water consumption positively affected their skin’s physiology.
Pro Tip: See A Professional Esthetician
While these tips are simple and easy to follow, we highly recommend seeing a professional skincare specialist. Our professionally trained estheticians work alongside industry experts and are equipped with tools and knowledge to help you unlock flawless skin. After a thorough skin assessment, our estheticians will use high-quality products for the treatment process and even offer advice on caring for your skin at home. Contact us today, and book an appointment with one of our estheticians.
Looking for more content like this? Check out our article:
Dry, Cracked and Rough: How to Care for Your Skin