5 Essentials For Youthful Skin

As we age our skin begins to lose its elasticity, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation. Thankfully, there are strategies you can adopt to slow down the ageing process and prolong the appearance of youthful skin.

1. Add an SPF 50+ sunscreen to your morning skincare routine

If there’s one absolute essential to skin health it's this. Chronic exposure to UV radiation damages skin cells, resulting in reduced elasticity, the development of fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, dryness and uneven texture. More seriously, prolonged exposure can lead to skin cancer. Wearing high-quality sunscreen is essential.

There is a lot of debate over the potential dangers of sunscreen due to ingredients oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are known endocrine disruptors. However, there are many sunscreens on the market that avoid these harmful ingredients. My personal favourites are from La Roche Posay however, a quick google search will reveal many other suitable brands.

2. Eat your greens

Dark leafy greens are rich sources of some of the most beloved skin-health vitamins, like vitamins A, C and E. Dark leafy greens prolong the appearance of youthful skin by strengthening connective tissue to reduce sag, removing waste and toxins from the body, reducing inflammation and balancing the production of sebum.

Incorporating greens into your diet is as simple as adding a cup of kale or rocket to every meal.

3. Practise stress management

Perceived psychological stress is a huge component of the formation of wrinkles. Adopting stress management techniques, especially if you’re a chronically stressed individual is essential for youthful skin and greater quality of life in general.

Some of my favourite stress management techniques can be found in my article 5 Techniques To Help Reduce Stress.

4. Cleanse your face every night

Daily cleansing is important to rid your skin of the build-up of dirt, makeup and bacteria that accumulates throughout the day. Regular cleansing promotes a radiant complexion and reduces the risk of breakouts, dehydration and premature ageing.

Make sure you find a cleanser suited to your skin type and follow up with a high-quality moisturiser.

5. Prioritise hydration

Dehydrated cells can promote the breakdown of collagen and reduced skin elasticity which can manifest in wrinkled, dull, dry, flaky, rough and irritated skin. It’s essential to drink at least 8 cups of water per day. An easy way to do this is to drink 2 cups upon waking and 2 cups at breakfast, lunch and dinner.

If you’re looking for individualised skin care strategies, make an appointment. Together we can explore your concerns to formulate a treatment plan specific to you.