Ageing skin is a fact of life and happens to all of us to some extent, but that doesn’t mean you can’t limit its impact. If you’re self-conscious about existing fine lines or want to prevent new wrinkles from forming, there are some changes you can make to your lifestyle and skincare routine to combat these physical signs of ageing. Keep your skin looking radiant and youthful with these key tips.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun
Wearing sun protection factor (SPF) daily is essential to maintain healthy skin. As well as protecting you from skin cancer, applying sunscreen every day can slow skin ageing. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of between 30 and 50 will offer the best protection, and don’t forget to wear it on cloudy days, as UVA and UVB rays can be harmful in all weather.
- Improve Your Diet
We already know that a healthy, balanced diet is beneficial for general health, but were you aware it can also positively impact your skin? Foods high in saturated fats such as processed and fatty meats can lead to inflammation and weaken collagen in the skin, so it’s a good idea to limit your intake of these. Collagen is what keeps your skin from sagging, so you want to retain as much of it as possible. This can be achieved by including collagen supplements (check out here) in your diet, which can not only improve the elasticity of your skin, but can also reduce wrinkles, dark spots, and even strengthen your hair and joints.
Excessive amounts of sugar are also a no-no if you want to maintain a youthful glow. When the body ingests sugar, it weakens support structures in the skin, which can lead to premature ageing in time.
Foods that will help your skin are vitamins, antioxidants, healthy fats and anti-inflammatory ingredients, as well as foods that contain natural hyaluronic acid for an extra boost of moisture.
- Remember to Moisturise
Our skin gets drier as we age, and this has a significant part to play in the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Using a rich, hydrating moisturiser every day will help your skin hold water and prevent it from drying out, keeping your face looking fresh and healthy. Look out for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, as these can be particularly effective at tackling signs of ageing.
- Use a Retinoid
Retinoids, or retinol products, as you may have heard them referred to, are effective skincare ingredients known for their anti-ageing properties. Retinoids encourage skin regeneration and increase collagen production to keep your complexion plump and bouncy.
- Try an Anti-wrinkle Treatment
There’s no shame in getting a little help with your anti-ageing efforts, and an anti-wrinkle treatment is sure to give your skin a boost. Non-surgical cosmetic treatments such as hyaluronic acid fillers can soften existing facial lines and increase your skin’s elasticity, making you appear rejuvenated and fresh-faced in a subtle way.
- Stay Hydrated
Sure, you use a moisturiser, but do you also remember to hydrate your skin from within? Drinking plenty of water will help your skin stay hydrated and smooth, which is another way to keep it healthy and slow signs of ageing.
- Stop Smoking
If you’re a smoker, you could be causing harm to your skin as well as the rest of your body. As well as the heat from cigarettes having the potential to cause wrinkles, smoking also reduces collagen production and limits the amount of oxygen and nutrients reaching the skin.
- Get a Better Night’s Sleep
Beauty sleep isn’t a myth – getting a good amount of sleep every night really can improve your skin and keep you looking youthful. Try to get six to eight hours of sleep per night to maintain a healthy glow.