Turning 40 doesn’t have to show. Countless products promise to keep you looking refreshed at any age, and many of them deliver. The real challenge is slowing down the changes Mother Nature has in store. Aging is inevitable—skin will lose firmness and lines will form—but with the right strategies, techniques, and tools, those wrinkles can remain your own private matter. Ready to see how it’s done?
Sunscreen
Remember going to the beach and fighting with your mom because sunscreen smells, and it takes forever to put on? As you age, you’ll wish you had listened because the sun loves to damage skin like it’s a personal hobby. The UV in the sun breaks down collagen; therefore, the best way to combat this is to apply sunscreen daily. Even if it’s cloudy or bleak, sunscreen can make a difference. Be sure to use SPF 30 or above.
No Smoking
This one you’ve probably already heard, but it’s true. One of the keys to healthy skin is to stop smoking. Smoking restricts blood flow, damages collagen, and accelerates skin aging. What that does to you is make you look 10 years older than you are. Quitting will give your skin a chance to regain that firmness and taut appearance.
Hormones
Hormones are no joke, and unfortunately for ladies, hormones are high maintenance. Menstruation, menopause, and other issues can cause a lot of skin issues. For instance, if you’re menopausal and your doctor hasn’t prescribed hormones for you, your skin will become crepey due to collagen loss. You need to advocate for yourself and ensure that your doctor is listening to you, so you can effectively help your skin.
Exfoliation
Gentle exfoliation is good for you, the key word here being gentle. You don’t want harsh scrubs because they cause skin tears and a host of other issues. A mild exfoliant, such as lactic acid, works well for your skin. If your skin is sensitive, you can try a polyhydroxy acid, as it helps calm inflammation.
Moisturization
Moisturization is going to make your skin look like you’re ready for the runway. Hyaluronic acid is said to be amazing and well worth its weight in gold. The reason? It keeps your skin plump and hydrated, so you look radiant. However, you don’t want to stop at the face; your legs, arms, chest, and other areas often show crepey skin first before your face does. The ceramides in your body will lock in that moisture, keeping you looking younger.
Hydration
Get ready to bust out your reusable water bottle because you need hydration. Drinking water can help reduce wrinkles, sagging, and maintain your plumpness and elasticity. When we become dehydrated, the truth is, we don’t look very well. We have dry, crepey skin. Water, on the other hand, supports the skin’s barrier function and enhances cell turnover. Not to mention, it also prevents further damage.
Eat Right
What you put in your body is essential, and it will be reflected in your appearance, particularly in your skin. Do you eat a lot of fast food? Chances are, you have skin issues. Omega-3 fatty acids help maintain your skin’s elasticity and hydration. If you eat protein and healthy fats, your tissue will be repaired, and collagen production will be boosted. Go for the colorful fruits and veggies too, you’ll see a difference.
Antioxidants
Vitamins E and C help fight free radicals and slow down the aging process of your skin. You can obtain your vitamins through your diet and skincare products, although they are also available for purchase over the counter. Adding these into your routine will help give you a smooth, firm texture to your skin and protect you against the daily damage.
Get To Sleep
Sleep plays a tremendous role in your skin’s appearance and health. During your sleep stages, your body repairs damage and increases collagen production. You should aim for 7-9 hours a night for your skin to get the rest it needs. The result will be youthful-looking skin that stays smooth and taut.
No Hot Showers
Nothing feels better than a nice, hot shower that makes men think women are lava creatures because they can’t handle the heat. Unfortunately, though, hot showers can cause your skin to become dry and crepey, stripping it of its natural oils. If you need that warmth, try a lukewarm shower instead to keep your moisture barrier healthy and intact.
The Skin You Deserve
Regardless of your age, taking care of your skin is extremely important. If you haven’t been keeping up with it, there’s still time, so don’t fret. All you need to do is make some minor adjustments, and you’ll be saying goodbye to wrinkles and hello to a flawless new look.
