New Delhi: There are so many factors, both internal and external, that affect our skin as we age. With the right lifestyle choices and skincare tricks, you can keep your skin looking healthy for years to come.
Check out these tips to learn how to have great skin in your 50s and beyond.
Protect your skin from the sun. Sun protection forms the foundation of every anti-aging skin-care plan. The sun’s rays make our skin age more quickly. We have so much evidence that the sun prematurely ages our skin that there is actually a word to describe this effect. This word is “photoaging.” To help patients protect their skin from the sun and other harmful UV rays, dermatologists offer these tips:
Seek shade. Be sure to seek shade between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and whenever your shadow looks shorter than you are.
Cover up in style
Whenever possible, wear a wide-brimmed hat, pants, and long sleeves. Gloves help to minimize common signs of aging on our hands such as age spots. Sunglasses help reduce fine lines around our eyes.
Slather on sunscreen every day before going outdoors
To protect your skin, apply sunscreen to all skin that clothing will not cover. You want to use a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 (or higher), and water resistance.
Forget about indoor tanning
The sun, tanning beds, and sun lamps expose you to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays accelerate skin aging.
Apply moisturizer every day
As we age, skin becomes drier. Fine lines and wrinkles appear. Moisturizer traps water in our skin, giving it a more youthful appearance. For best results, use a facial moisturizer, body moisturizer, and lip balm.
Wash away dirt and grime twice a day
How you wash your face can affect your appearance. For best results, you want to wash with warm water and a mild cleanser rather than soap. You also should avoid scrubbing your skin clean.
Stop smoking
Tobacco smoke contains toxins that can lead to a smoker’s face. Signs of a smoker’s face include dull and dry complexion, loss of skin firmness, premature lines and wrinkles, and leathery skin.
Eat healthy foods
A healthy diet promotes healthy skin. Make sure you eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Get enough sleep
It’s called beauty rest for a reason. Sleep gives your body time to refresh and renew itself.
