How to Stop Your Skin from Aging

Realize it or not, we age with every second that passes by. Face it, we don't give the minute changes to our bodies much thought until we blow our birthday candles out each year! As we age naturally, so does our skin. Overexposure to sun rays, smoking, air pollution, and stress may drastically speed up aging signs on our skin.

You might notice that skin loses elasticity and moisture as you age. This is because of the decline of collagen and hyaluronic acid levels in our system. Over time, cellular damage may lead to external signs that make the skin look and feel older. Symptoms of aging include altered facial contour, sagging skin, wrinkles, and uneven complexion.

According to dermatologists, we should start practicing an anti-aging routine as early as in our 20s. Our skin loses collagen slowly throughout our lifetime, so we should always keep in mind that prevention is better than cure. Our skin has an incredible potential for projecting an image of health and vitality. We can maintain youthful-looking skin by practicing a healthy lifestyle.

If you're interested in some of our secret tips on how to slow down the aging process, then read on!

Throw Some Shade

To slow down the aging process, always apply sunscreen when you're out in the sun (even if it's just a quick 15-minute walk to the park). UV rays are known to speed up the aging process of our skin rapidly. We can't see the UV rays, but that doesn't mean they're not there! Sunscreen plays an essential role in anti-aging by providing a protective layer that repels direct UV contact.

Master the Moisture

Next, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Always remember to apply moisturizer to your skin—both face and body. The application of moisturizers keeps our skin noticeably hydrated by locking in moisture.

Win with Vitamins

Research shows that taking vitamins and supplements can help improve skin texture and complexion. Not only do collagen supplements promote collagen production, but also skin elasticity, and hydration—reducing wrinkles, rough texture, and cellulite. These supplements are also helpful in protecting our skin from UV damage, the early signs of aging, and the breakdown of collagen in our body.

Now, you may ask, what is collagen? Found in the extracellular matrix, collagen is the main structural protein that gives skin its elasticity and firmness by scaffolding. It is found in approximately 70 to 80% of the skin, bringing beauty from the inside out (literally)!

Balance Your Diet

Switching to a balanced diet is key to maintaining a healthy and youthful body. Start off by consuming a Mediterranean diet—such as lots of fish, poultry, olive oil, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. This will protect your brain and slow down the cognitive decline of the aging process.

Exercise (Not Extra Fries)

Last but not least, exercising at least 30 minutes a day will strengthen your heart, thus improving blood circulation throughout your body. Excellent blood circulation also gives your skin a healthy glow from the inside out.

Sleeping Beauty

One of the most vital steps is to have a good night's sleep. Sleeping can restore your health and overall skin condition, increasing youthfulness. Late nights can cause skin outbreaks and dehydration. Why else would they call it "beauty sleep?"

Water-Up that Skin

Water slows down the aging process by increasing the hydration level of our body. Make sure you drink plenty of water every day to maintain your youth. Your skin will thank you!

Ultimately, we can't stop the aging process (only applies to mortals), but we can do our best to slow it down to age gracefully.

Resources— National Institute of HealthAmerican Academy of Dermatology

About The Author