Avoiding the Effects of Age on Your Skin

Aging is a natural part of life. If you are lucky, you'll live long enough to experience the signs of aging affecting your skin. However, that doesn't mean you have to embrace these changes. Instead, take steps to delay them and keep your skin healthy and youthful as long as possible.

Here are nine things that, when incorporated into your daily routine, can help reduce the effects of aging on your skin.

Dry skin starts from within, and dehydration can quickly rob your skin of its glow and fullness. Stay hydrated to reduce the irritation and thinning dry skin causes. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water each day. Increase your intake if it is very hot or you are performing strenuous activity.

The sun is not your friend when it comes to healthy skin. It can lead to signs of aging like age spots and increases your chance of developing skin cancer. Stay out of it when possible, especially in the afternoon when it is strongest. Use protection when you have to be in it.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat and long, loose clothes to keep as much skin covered as possible. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to areas that are exposed to the sun.

Lack of moisture and declining supportive skin proteins contribute to thinning skin, loss of facial contours, and fine lines. Combat these by using an appropriate moisturizer every day.

Consider using one with an SPF of at least 15 (although 25 is better) in the morning, even on days when you aren't going to be outside, and then switching to one without for nighttime. This is important even if you have oily or combination skin.

Remember that no skincare products should sting or burn when applied. This means you are irritating your skin, which can lead to dryness and make skin appear thinner.

A well-balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables may slow signs of aging. These food items contain antioxidants which may reduce the oxidative stress placed on your cells from repeated exposure to the sun, pollution, and other degrading factors.

Harsh cleansers that strip your skin of natural oils and fats are not doing you any favors. They cause drying and may lead to thinner skin that is more prone to damage. Wash your face with a gentle non-soap cleanser as part of your morning and nighttime routines.

If you exercise or perform activities that cause excessive sweating, wash it again. Use warm water and don't scrub, which can irritate skin and lead to dryness.

Use this as a good excuse to quit smoking. It has been linked to dull and sallow looking skin, and it causes wrinkles.

Moderate exercise improves circulation and can give your immune system a boost. Both of these contribute to healthier, younger-looking skin. try to get in about 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days.

In this case, healthy skin comes with a bonus: this should help you meet the American Heart Association's recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week for improved health.

Repeated muscle movements and facial expressions leave impressions on your skin and underlying fatty tissues. These result in folds, creases, and wrinkles across your face. Think smoker's lines above the mouth or furrows between your brows. Try to avoid scowling. Your skin and outlook will appreciate it.

Alcohol takes its toll on your skin. it is very dehydrating, which causes dryness and thinning. Limit your consumption to less than two glasses a day for a more youthful look.

It is never too late to start taking care of your skin or limit its signs of aging. Many of the steps to healthier, younger-looking skin can also have positive impacts on your overall health and wellness. Take steps toward a more radiant you by incorporating these strategies into your normal routine.