Aging is a natural part of life that we all experience, but it doesn't mean we can't take steps to slow down its effects. While many people tend to focus on facial skincare, it's important to note that the appearance of skin on other parts of our bodies can also significantly impact how old we're perceived to be. Recently, a German study found that the skin on our chest, hands, and arms can give away our age just as much as our face can.
Yes, you heard that right. So if you want to maintain a youthful appearance, here are some tips you can try adding to your routine today:
Protect Your Skin From The Sun
UV rays from the sun are responsible for the majority of visible skin aging, including wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. Protecting your skin by wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 every day, regardless of the weather, is essential. Don't forget to reapply every few hours for maximum protection.
Drink Tons Of Water
Proper hydration is key to maintaining healthy, younger-looking skin. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day can replenish your skin's tissue and cells, giving it a radiant and healthy appearance. Dehydration can cause your skin to appear dry and dull, emphasizing wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Get Enough Beauty Sleep
Getting enough sleep is important for promoting cell turnover and renewal, which can help maintain a youthful appearance. You can use this time to your advantage by using age-defying skincare products, such as retinoids and beta hydroxy acid, which are powerful exfoliants and wrinkle erasers. Sleeping on a satin pillowcase can also prevent damaging your skin while you sleep.
Moisturize Daily
Keeping your skin hydrated not only makes it look better but also makes it stronger and better equipped to fight off irritants. Using a moisturizer that contains humectants and emollients can help your skin feel soft and supple. Using clinical-grade skincare products with higher active ingredients that are clinically proven to treat and protect your skin can provide the best results.
Eat A Plant-Based Diet
Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential nutrients that support healthy aging and keep your body young. They also contain phytonutrients that help your body fight off the damaging effects of free radicals found in the environment. Aim for a healthy diet consisting mostly of fruits and vegetables, supplemented with whole grains and healthy, lean proteins.
Get Moving
Research shows that regular exercise not only helps you maintain a healthy weight but also slows aging at a cellular level. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can even make you look up to 10 years younger. Exercise increases blood flow, which moves oxygen and critical nutrients throughout your body, leading to a more youthful appearance.
Build A Good Skincare Routine
It's easier to prevent skin damage than it is to reverse it, so establishing a good skincare routine is a great daily habit. Use a gentle cleanser and exfoliant, and make sure to use the proper treatments and serums for your skin type and needs. Daily moisturizing can increase your skin's elasticity and keep it hydrated.
Take It Easy On The Alcohol And Caffeine
While alcohol and caffeine can have health benefits in moderation, excessive consumption can dehydrate your body and rob it of key nutrients. Overindulging in alcohol and caffeine can have permanent effects on your skin, so it's best to limit your intake.
By following these tips, you can help delay the effects of aging and maintain a youthful appearance. Remember, it's never too early or too late to start taking care of your skin!