How can you reduce premature skin aging. What are the most effective anti-aging skincare techniques. Which products and ingredients combat signs of aging. How does diet impact skin health and aging. What lifestyle changes promote youthful-looking skin.

The Science Behind Skin Aging: Understanding the Process

Skin aging is a complex biological process influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic aging is largely determined by genetics and the natural passage of time, while extrinsic aging is caused by environmental factors such as sun exposure, pollution, and lifestyle choices. As we age, our skin undergoes several changes:

• Decreased collagen and elastin production
• Reduced cell turnover rate
• Diminished sebum production
• Thinning of the epidermis and dermis
• Loss of subcutaneous fat

These changes manifest as visible signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and uneven skin tone. While we can’t stop the aging process entirely, there are numerous strategies we can employ to slow it down and maintain a youthful appearance.

Gentle Cleansing: The Foundation of Anti-Aging Skincare

The first step in any effective anti-aging skincare routine is proper cleansing. As we age, our skin becomes more sensitive and prone to dryness, making it crucial to choose a gentle cleanser that won’t strip away natural oils. Dr. Jessica Wu, a renowned dermatologist, advises switching to a milder face wash, even if you still experience occasional breakouts.

What makes a cleanser suitable for aging skin? Look for formulas that are:

• pH-balanced
• Sulfate-free
• Rich in hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid
• Free from harsh exfoliants or strong fragrances

When cleansing, use lukewarm water and gentle, circular motions. Avoid scrubbing or using hot water, as these can irritate the skin and accelerate aging. After cleansing, pat your face dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, which can cause micro-tears in the skin.

The Power of Retinoids: A Game-Changer in Anti-Aging

Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are widely regarded as one of the most effective anti-aging ingredients available. They work by increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and improving skin texture. But how exactly do retinoids benefit aging skin?

• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Improve skin firmness and elasticity
• Even out skin tone and fade dark spots
• Unclog pores and prevent acne
• Enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products

When should you start using retinoids? Dr. Wu recommends introducing retinoids into your skincare routine in your thirties. However, it’s essential to start slowly, as retinoids can cause irritation and dryness initially. Begin by applying a small amount two to three times a week, gradually increasing frequency as your skin builds tolerance.

For those new to retinoids, over-the-counter retinol products can be a gentler alternative to prescription-strength retinoids. These formulations often contain additional soothing ingredients to minimize irritation while still providing anti-aging benefits.

Sun Protection: Your Skin’s Best Defense Against Aging

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is responsible for up to 80% of visible skin aging. This makes sun protection an absolute necessity in any anti-aging skincare routine. But with so many sunscreen options available, how do you choose the right one for aging skin?

Key factors to consider when selecting a sunscreen:

• Broad-spectrum protection (UVA and UVB)
• SPF 30 or higher
• Moisturizing formula
• Antioxidant-rich
• Non-comedogenic

As skin becomes drier with age, Dr. Wu recommends switching to a more moisturizing sunscreen cream and avoiding alcohol-based sprays or gels that can further dehydrate the skin. Look for sunscreens that contain antioxidants like vitamin E or green tea extract, which provide additional protection against free radical damage.

Remember, sun protection isn’t just for sunny days. UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, so make applying sunscreen a daily habit, regardless of the weather or your plans for the day.

Hydration: The Key to Plump, Youthful Skin

As we age, our skin’s ability to retain moisture decreases, leading to dryness, flakiness, and more pronounced fine lines and wrinkles. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining a youthful complexion. But how can you ensure your skin stays adequately hydrated?

Effective strategies for boosting skin hydration:

1. Use a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture to the air
2. Drink plenty of water throughout the day
3. Incorporate hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin into your skincare routine
4. Apply moisturizer to damp skin to lock in hydration
5. Use overnight masks or sleeping packs for intense hydration

When choosing a moisturizer for aging skin, opt for richer formulas that contain ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, and plant oils. These help to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and protecting against environmental stressors.

Don’t forget to extend your moisturizing routine beyond your face. The neck, décolletage, and hands are often overlooked but can show signs of aging just as prominently as the face.

Nutrition for Ageless Skin: Eating Your Way to a Youthful Complexion

The saying “you are what you eat” holds particularly true when it comes to skin health. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients can significantly impact the appearance and health of your skin. But which foods should you prioritize for an anti-aging diet?

Skin-loving foods to incorporate into your diet:

• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) for omega-3 fatty acids
• Berries for antioxidants
• Leafy greens for vitamins A, C, and K
• Nuts and seeds for vitamin E and healthy fats
• Sweet potatoes for beta-carotene
• Green tea for polyphenols

Dr. Wu specifically recommends incorporating cooked tomatoes into your diet. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to protect against sun damage and may help prevent further skin damage in individuals with a history of sunburns.

On the flip side, it’s equally important to limit or avoid foods that can accelerate skin aging. These include:

• Sugary foods and drinks
• Processed and refined carbohydrates
• Excessive alcohol
• Trans fats

Remember, while a healthy diet can contribute to better skin health, it’s not a substitute for proper skincare and sun protection.

The Role of Supplements in Anti-Aging Skincare

While a balanced diet should be the primary source of nutrients for skin health, supplements can play a supportive role in an anti-aging regimen. But which supplements are most beneficial for aging skin?

Supplements that may promote skin health:

• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Collagen peptides
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Coenzyme Q10
• Resveratrol

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil or flaxseed oil supplements, are particularly noteworthy for their potential anti-aging benefits. These essential fats help maintain skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and may even delay the skin’s aging process by preventing wrinkles.

However, it’s crucial to approach supplements with caution. Not all supplements are created equal, and some may interact with medications or cause side effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Exfoliation: Revealing Fresh, Youthful Skin

As we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down, leading to a buildup of dead skin cells that can make the complexion appear dull and accentuate fine lines and wrinkles. Regular exfoliation can help counteract this process, revealing fresher, more youthful-looking skin. But how often should you exfoliate, and what’s the best method for aging skin?

Dr. Wu recommends exfoliating once a week using a gentle scrub with round particles to minimize irritation. However, it’s important to avoid harsh, abrasive scrubs or products containing sharp particles like ground nut shells, which can cause micro-tears in the skin.

Alternative exfoliation methods for aging skin:

• Chemical exfoliants (AHAs and BHAs)
• Enzyme peels
• Gentle microdermabrasion
• Soft cleansing brushes or cloths

When introducing exfoliation into your routine, start slowly and pay attention to how your skin reacts. If you experience redness, irritation, or increased sensitivity, reduce the frequency or switch to a gentler method.

Remember to always follow exfoliation with a nourishing moisturizer and sunscreen, as newly revealed skin can be more susceptible to sun damage.

The Importance of Consistency in Anti-Aging Skincare

While individual products and treatments can certainly make a difference, the key to achieving and maintaining youthful-looking skin lies in consistency. A well-rounded, consistent skincare routine tailored to your skin’s needs will yield the best results over time.

Tips for maintaining a consistent anti-aging skincare routine:

1. Set realistic goals and expectations
2. Start with a basic routine and gradually introduce new products
3. Use products as directed and give them time to work
4. Adjust your routine seasonally or as your skin’s needs change
5. Don’t neglect lifestyle factors like sleep, stress management, and exercise

Remember that visible improvements in skin texture, tone, and firmness can take weeks or even months to appear. Patience and persistence are key when it comes to anti-aging skincare.

Advanced Anti-Aging Treatments: When to Consider Professional Help

While a comprehensive at-home skincare routine can go a long way in maintaining youthful skin, there may come a time when you want to explore more advanced anti-aging treatments. Professional treatments can provide more dramatic results, especially for addressing specific concerns like deep wrinkles, sagging skin, or stubborn pigmentation.

Popular professional anti-aging treatments:

• Chemical peels
• Laser resurfacing
• Microneedling
• Radiofrequency treatments
• Dermal fillers
• Botulinum toxin injections (Botox)

When considering professional treatments, it’s crucial to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. They can assess your skin’s needs, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate treatments based on your individual situation.

Keep in mind that while professional treatments can provide more dramatic results, they often come with higher costs, potential risks, and longer recovery times compared to at-home skincare. A combination of consistent at-home care and occasional professional treatments often yields the best results for maintaining youthful, radiant skin.

Embracing Aging: The Importance of a Positive Mindset

While anti-aging skincare can help maintain a youthful appearance, it’s equally important to cultivate a positive attitude towards aging. Embracing the natural aging process can reduce stress and promote overall well-being, which in turn can have a positive impact on your skin’s health and appearance.

Ways to foster a positive attitude towards aging:

• Focus on the wisdom and experiences gained with age
• Practice gratitude for your body and all it does for you
• Celebrate your unique features and individuality
• Set new goals and pursue new interests at any age
• Surround yourself with positive, supportive people

Remember, true beauty comes from within. While taking care of your skin is important, it’s equally crucial to nourish your mind, body, and spirit. By combining a comprehensive skincare routine with a positive mindset and healthy lifestyle habits, you can age gracefully and confidently, radiating beauty at any age.

7 Anti-Aging Tips for Your Skin

The formula for youthful-looking skin could be as close as your nightstand or medicine cabinet. That’s because using the right skin-care products can make a big difference in your complexion and help avoid signs of aging, like wrinkles.

“Your skin is a living organ that changes over time,” says Jessica Wu, MD, a Los Angeles dermatologist and author of Feed Your Face. “Adjusting your skin care to accommodate these changes will help your skin stay healthy and looking its best.”

Here are some tips and products that can age-proof your skin:

1. Use a Gentler Face Wash

When you cleanse your skin, use a gentle touch and formula. “Skin tends to get less oily and more sensitive,” Dr. Wu says. “So even if you still get adult acne breakouts, you may want to use a more gentle face wash instead of a drying acne wash.”

Try MD Complete Anti-Aging Restoring Cleanser & Makeup Remover, a mild face wash that uses essential fatty acids to deliver major hydration and green tea to fight against damage from free radicals — compounds that attack cells.

Be sure to use a light hand, cleansing in gentle, circular motions. Aggressive scrubbing could irritate already sensitive skin and accelerate aging, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

2. Start Using Retinoids

Over time, skin can begin losing collagen, the protein responsible for keeping it looking smooth and lifted. This loss can result in a creased look. Experts agree that the best line of defense is to use a retinoid, the prescription-strength version of vitamin A.

“I start recommending retinoids for anti-aging to my patients in their thirties,” explains Wu. She suggests easing into the medication with an application two to three times a week, and working up to nightly as your skin gets used to it.

Gentler forms of over-the-counter retinoid skin creams — like RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream — are available online and in stores. But Wu cautions to avoid using retinoids at the same time as benzoyl peroxide, a medicine used to treat acne. That’s because benzoyl peroxide can oxidize some retinoids, making them less effective.

3. Upgrade Your SPF Routine

Regular use of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher is a great way to keep your skin healthy and prevent age spots and discoloration. But not all sunscreens are alike when it comes to ensuring supple skin.

“Switch to a more moisturizing sunscreen cream, and avoid alcohol-containing sprays and gels that can dry out your skin,” Wu says. “Also, look for sunscreens that contain antioxidants to protect the collagen in your skin.”

Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 50, for instance, has an antioxidant blend with pure vitamin E.

4. Use a Richer Face Cream

Because oil glands can become less active as you age, the AAD recommends moisturizing properly to minimize fine lines and wrinkles.

The simple act of switching your normal face cream for a richer one will help trap water against the skin, pumping up those deep crevices. As an added bonus, smooth the formula down to your neck and upper torso to treat those areas as well.

5. Watch What You Eat

Much of what happens on the outside of your body is the result of what you put in it. It’s important to eat foods that nourish the skin over the years. Avoid anything that can dehydrate, like alcohol. And foods high in sugar and white carbohydrates can actually age you faster by breaking down glucose. Opt instead for more protein in your diet, including foods like fish, lean meats, beans, and legumes to help build strong collagen. Wu also recommends foods high in vitamin C to keep skin looking youthful.

“Cooked tomatoes are high in lycopene, an antioxidant, and have been shown to fight sunburn and sun damage,” Wu says. “Eat more tomatoes if you’ve had a lot of sunburns in your younger years and are starting to see spots and sun damage.” Lycopene won’t erase existing spots but can help prevent further damage.

6. Consider Supplements

Can a pill restore dewiness in aging skin? Maybe. Omega-3s found in certain seafood, like salmon, can help keep skin moist and may even delay its maturing process by preventing wrinkles.

If you don’t eat fish or fish products, Wu suggests trying fish oil or flaxseed oil supplements. “It’ll help keep your skin supple by replenishing your skin’s own lipids [or oils], which diminish with time. It’s also anti-inflammatory if you suffer from adult acne.”

As with any supplement, check with your doctor before using.

7. Exfoliate Weekly

Our skin sheds dead cells regularly, creating a new layer every 28 days. But that process can slow over time, leading to a dull-looking complexion and rough patches. To help remove that buildup, exfoliate weekly for brighter skin.

“Use a scrub with round particles so it’s less irritating,” Wu recommends. But avoid products made with plastic microbeads, which pollute the environment and, when released into waterways, can become ingested by marine organisms.

50 Best Anti-Aging Tips, Recommended By Doctors

What most of us wouldn’t give to be a teenager again, from the lack of bills to the youthful, line-free faces we once enjoyed. While, short of moving back in with our parents, there’s little we can do about the former, stopping the aging process in its tracks may be more feasible than you’d imagine.

Every day, we’re engaging in habits that can make our skin and overall health suffer, aging us in the process. From the food we eat to the way we wash our faces, these seemingly minor decisions can end up making us years older than our chronological age in the long run.

So, what’s the solution? Before you start shelling tons of cash on every dubious pill and potion at your local pharmacy, find out what the pros know about staying youthful by discovering these doctor-approved anti-aging tips. No matter your current age, you can start feeling more energetic and vibrant today with the 50 Ways to Feel Younger Now!

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One of the easiest ways to turn back the clock is to make topical retinoids part of your skincare arsenal. While they can be irritating to certain individuals with sensitive skin, they can also provide a serious line of defense against wrinkles. “An easy at-home regimen would be using a retinol cream,” says Dr. John Kahan, a surgeon who treats patients at Beverly Hills Med Spa. “Retinol is a form of vitamin A and it helps with fine lines, uneven skin tone, dark spots, and texturized skin.”

Dr. Ayelet Mizrachi-Jonisch, a dermatologist at New York-based CareMount Medical, echoes his sentiments, noting that these vitamin A-based treatments can stop the aging process before it starts. “[A] prescribed retinoid is always a good idea for maintenance of good skin health and prevention of photo aging,” she says.

Don’t let those little indulgences turn into extra pounds; if you do, you might just find yourself looking older than you actually are. “Weight gain is also perceived as aging in several areas,” says Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman, MD, FACS, a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Manhattan. “For example, submental fat, which is located below the chin, significantly changes how the lower face is viewed. “

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Sugar does more than just rot your teeth, it’s also a major contributor to the loss of firmness in the skin, which can age you significantly. “Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of lean protein and vegetables and avoid sugar,” suggests Dr. Fred Pescatore, a natural health physician. “Poor diets that are high in sugar have been linked to advanced glycation end products (AGEs) which cause wrinkles and loss of collagen and elastin.”

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Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day can help keep your skin healthy and youthful-looking. While the amount of water you need depends on your size and activity level, sipping water throughout the day and never letting yourself get thirsty is a good guideline.
“Not drinking enough can result in an increased appearance of wrinkles and lines and creates more dry areas and dullness,” says clinical nutritionist Ariane Hundt. “Drinking enough is key to keeping a healthy glow and that dewy appearance. “

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Those late nights you pulled in college are doing no favors to your skin. In fact, they could be the reason you’re looking a little worse for wear. “Sleep is one of the most important physiological processes,” says Sarah Greenfield, a registered dietician and Director of Nutrition and Education for HUM Nutrition. “While we are sleeping, our bodies are repairing, detoxifying and our hormones are being balanced. The lining of the GI tract is turning over to ensure your body can absorb all the nutrients you are eating to keep your skin healthy and happy. Adequate sleep improves circulation around the eyes decreasing puffiness and dryness.”

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Every sunburn counts. In fact, “many studies show that repeated sun burns as a child lead to much higher cases of skin cancers and skin damage as an adult,” says Dr. David Shafer, founder of Manhattan’s Shafer Plastic Surgery. So take every trip into the sun with the same precautions. Doing so might just fend off those early signs of aging you’re trying to avoid. Beginning from when you’re a “young [kid], it is important to focus on prevention, such as using an adequate sunscreen or protective clothing,” explains Dr. Shafer. For more ways to stop the clock, turn to these 20 Zero Belly Habits For Aging!

The best offense is a good defense when it comes to staving off wrinkles. Like Dr. Shafer mentioned previously, getting adequate sun protection is one of the best things you can do for your skin when it comes to slowing down the aging process. “The first line of defense is prevention,” says Dr. Shafer. “Either wearing sunscreen or physical protective barrier clothing and hats are essential for protecting the skin.”

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Think you can skip the shower after the gym? Think again. Washing your face post-workout can help keep dead skin and other grime from settling into your pores, making them look larger, a sure sign of aging. “Wash your face twice daily, especially after sweating heavily while working or exercising,” says Dr. Ross Levy, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist with New York’s CareMount Medical.

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It probably comes as no surprise that smoking is bad for your health—as it increases your risk of cancer and other serious health issues—but not everyone realizes what a major impact it can have on your appearance. Even if you only smoke occasionally, you’re making yourself look older and sicker with every puff. “Choices such as smoking have a profound effect on the skin as the smoke and nicotine starve the precious cells of oxygen and nutrition,” says Dr. Shafer.

Don’t assume that you’re already too late to fix the signs of aging; late is better than never.
“While it is never too late, the sooner one starts, the better,” says Dr. Adam Kolker, a Manhattan-based plastic surgeon. “When one begins to address issues too late in life the solutions may be less effective.”

Whether you’re at the point where you’re ready to start having fillers or are just looking to maintain your current appearance, the way you take care of your skin can make a major difference. “It’s essential to have a good at-home skincare routine which can help improve the skin,” says Dr. Shafer. Doing so can even help the procedures your dermatologist or surgeon performs last longer, he says.

While you do want to keep your face clean, scrubbing it may exacerbate existing dermatological issues, including wrinkles. “Did you know that scrubbing away at your skin can cause aging?” says Dr. Ben Johnson, MD, founder of holistic beauty brand Osmosis Pur Medical Skincare. “By over exfoliating you’re actually removing the only protective barrier that your skin has.”

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Anti-aging creams can be helpful, but if you want meaningful change in the health and appearance of your skin, start with your food choices and work outward.
“Most Americans want a cream that you can slap on and look great and never age,” says Functional Nutritionist Susan Barendregt. “We need to go the whole way and heal from the inside.”

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That golden glow isn’t worth it in the long run. If you’re trying to turn back the hands of time, tanning is a serious no-no. “Skin ages prematurely each time a person ‘gets a tan,'” says Dr. Levy. If you can’t brave the beach in your current pale state, opt for a sunless tanner instead. Get healthy and stay that way starting today with the 50 Foods That Slash Your Cancer Risk!

Fatty fish and omega-3-rich seeds can help your skin turn over a new leaf, leaving you looking younger in no time. “Omega-3 fats found in fish and fish oil, flaxseed, chia seed and walnuts are a key component of cell membranes and your body needs them to renew your skin cells. So, many people go on low-fat diets, and then miss out on these healthy fats and end up with dry, flaky or inflamed skin as a result,” says Samantha Scruggs, a registered dietician. Omega-3s aren’t the only way to turn your health around in a hurry; the 40 10-Second Health Fixes will have you looking and feeling better in an instant.

Bulking up on antioxidants, whether through fresh fruits and vegetables or supplementation, can make your skin healthier, more resilient, and have you looking younger in no time.
“Adding antioxidants and supplements to your daily nutrition promotes elasticity and hydration. I recommend products that feature the super-antioxidant, Pycnogenol®, to support skin health,” says Dr. Pescatore. “Research shows this proprietary extract from French maritime pine bark helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and promotes skin hydration by encouraging the body’s natural production of collagen and hyaluronic acid.”

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Switching up your pillowcase can do more than just ensure a better night’s sleep. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can also help fend off fine lines. “Silk pillowcases can help your skin retain its natural moisture and reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles. I didn’t fully appreciate the benefits until I started using one myself,” says Dr. Nina Watson, a board certified diagnostic radiologist practicing in New York.

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Fatty fish isn’t the only way to increase your intake of skin-firming omega-3s; walnuts are also a good choice for those who avoid animal-based proteins. “The omega-3s in walnuts help improve the elasticity of the skin. Walnuts also boost collagen production,” says Dr. Faisal Tawwab, MD, a board-certified physician in Orlando. Make healthy protein a priority in your diet by adding the 25 Best Protein Snacks at the Supermarketto your shopping list!

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That steamy shower may be relaxing, but it could be sapping your skin of essential moisture, making you look older in the process. “Avoid hot showers and baths; they’ll dry out skin more than anything else,” says Caroline Nuytten, a licensed esthetician at Manhattan’s Metro Integrative Pharmacy.

You don’t have to be afraid of healthy oils in your food, and you don’t have to be afraid of them in your skincare routine, either. In fact, oil-based products can keep your skin hydrated and reduce your risk of damage.

“I love oils to hydrate the skin,” says Dr. Dendy Engelman, dermatologic surgeon at Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery. “They penetrate deeply in the skin and hydrate beautifully without leaving a greasy feel. Look for oils with Vitamin E and Pro-Vitamin B5 to hydrate and lock in moisture immediately so even though you are rinsing the product off you are still able to benefit from it. Additionally, it is less drying as with oil facial cleansers, the oil binds to oil (sebum) without stripping natural oils from your skin so it’s much gentler than a soap cleanser.”

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While you probably can’t control crying babies on planes, traffic jams, or the sound of a garbage truck outside your window at 5 a.m., trying to de-stress as much and as often as possible can help you enjoy a more youthful-looking complexion. Getting enough sleep, exercising, and meditating can all help you live with less stress. “Stress directly affects our body’s biochemistry by causing the release of specific stress hormones. These hormones have been shown to directly increase inflammation and reduce our body’s ability to repair damage. Excess inflammation can make the skin less plump by breaking down collagen,” says Dr. Tara Nayak, a Philadelphia-based naturopathic physician. Start reducing stress and feeling better in a hurry by adding the 50 Foods That Make You Happy to your regular line-up!

It may seem counterintuitive, but over-cleansing your face can speed up the aging process, and the oily creams used to combat dryness can cause breakouts. “One of the most common mistakes is using a soap that’s too harsh for their skin, drying it out and then reaching for heavy moisturizers,” says Dr. Cynthia Bailey, a dermatologist and founder of DrBaileySkinCare.com, noting that the most effective cleansers are often the mildest ones.

Think skipping your skincare routine is no big deal? Unfortunately, it can actually expedite the aging process. “Hygiene is another factor which can either help or hurt your skin as neglected skin shows signs of aging and trauma much faster than someone who treats their skin with respect,” says Dr. Shafer.

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While the occasional glass of red wine can be a heart-healthy choice, booze, in general, is the enemy of healthy, line-free skin. If you want to look younger, drinking less alcohol is the way to go, says Dr. Levy.

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While past generations skimped on dietary fat whenever possible, new research suggests that enjoying enough healthy fat can improve your cardiovascular health, boost circulation, and keep your skin looking young. “Eating lots of healthy fats is really important for skin. Skin cells renew very frequently, so they are very much affected by what you eat, and quickly. One of the first changes I see in people who change their diet, especially increasing fat intake (don’t be afraid of fat!) is improvements in their skin – looking more radiant, younger, healthier and just having an appearance of a healthy glow. You should make sure you incorporate a healthy fat into every meal,” says Scruggs.

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If you want to avoid pock marks and scarring that can make you look older, stop picking at your skin pronto. “Stop picking at those pesky breakouts and let them come out on their own or use natural products to help eliminate them,” says Dr. Johnson. “Any time you pick or pull at your skin you’re causing damage and creating, irritation, scars, and yes even wrinkles!

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Candy isn’t going to do any favors for your skin, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy something sweet from time to time. In fact, honey might just help plump your skin and maintain your ageless look. “This sweet treat is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts water. When it comes to your skin, consuming honey helps draw water from the mineral tissues to the surface of the skin, keeping it moisturized, supple and flake-free,” says Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O, a New York-based osteopathic physician certified in family medicine and anti-aging medicine.

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Your skin issues are deeper-seated than you think. Getting your gut health in order is the first step toward younger skin. “Most people do not link their skin health directly to their digestion. However, this is long held knowledge in the field of Naturopathic Medicine,” says Dr. Nayak. “We know that if we clean up the diet, improve digestion and get the bowels moving, and restore healthy gut bacteria, skin often improves naturally!” Whip that gut into shape and enjoy a more youthful look by making the 40 Superfoods to Eat After 40 part of your routine!

Inflammation is one of the main causes of skin that looks weathered and worn before its time. “The best way to keep the skin healthy and slow the aging process in the skin is to reduce inflammation in the dermis of the skin. Inflammation reduces blood flow to the dermis, causes the degradation of elastin and collagen in the dermis (resulting in wrinkles), and causes the loss of dermal fat (reducing the plumpness of the skin),” says Dr. Barry Sears, founder of the Zone Diet.

The same treatment you use for the common cold can have serious benefits when it comes to keeping your skin looking hydrated and radiant. “Using a humidifier will help you out a lot, both inside and outside,” says Nuytten, who recommends that clients make humidifiers part of their skincare and overall health routine each year before winter.

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An orange here, a squeeze of lemon there, and you’ll be well on your way to a softer, more supple complexion. “Vitamin C is also an important part of collagen, the protein that connects your cells together to create your skin’s elasticity and gives it structure. Make sure you are eating lots of citrus fruits daily as well to get enough vitamin C so your body will make the collagen it needs to create new skin scaffolding. One serving of a citrus fruit daily should do it!” says Scruggs.

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A few antioxidant-rich bell peppers on your menu could be the key to turning back the clock and fending off future damage. “Green, yellow, and red peppers help reduce the chance of wrinkles near the eyes,” says Dr. Tawwab. “They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect your skin from the sun. “

Just because you have naturally tan skin or are venturing out on a cloudy day doesn’t mean you can skip the SPF. Any exposure to the sun without SPF can damage your skin and make you look older. “When outdoors, apply a sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 30 or higher to exposed skin and wear a hat,” suggests Dr. Levy.

Pay special attention to what’s below your face you’re using sunscreen or moisturizer. The thinner skin on your neck and chest tends to age faster than the skin on your face and can make you look older when it’s not properly cared for. “It’s important not to forget the decolletage, or neck, region as well when applying,” says Dr. Zuckerman.

Even those of us who regularly apply sunscreen often forget a part of our face that can give away our age in an instant: our lips. To combat wrinkly lips, make sure you’re giving them some TLC. “Apply lip balm with an SPF rating of at least 30 to your lips. Reapply every two hours, just as you would with sunscreen,” says Dr. Mizrachi-Jonisch.

Don’t let a pretty package or celebrities in commercials fool you into thinking that drugstore cream is a miracle anti-aging product. “Someone who is just using over the counter (OTC) treatments that they find in the drugstore aisles may be doing themselves as a disservice as they may not be using the appropriate product or might not have a product with high enough percentage of active ingredient,” says Dr. Shafer. “OTC does have significant marketing, so it’s important not to fall into the trap of being enticed by sexy or exciting marketing or believing false promises about the effectiveness of the products.”

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While taking care of your skin can help you look younger, focusing on whole-body health will yield far greater results. “What’s good for your body is good for your skin,” says Dr. Mizrachi-Jonisch. “Hydrate and eat well. Stay active as possible. And be positive—every cell in your body benefits.” Turn back the clock and live a longer, healthier life with the 50 Fountain of Youth Secrets!

Microneedling may sound unpleasant, but this treatment is both relatively pain-free and an effective way of increasing your skin’s natural collagen production, filling in existing fine lines and acne scarring, according to Dr. Shafer.

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Stop inflammation that can spur the development of fine lines and wrinkles by making turmeric your spice of choice.”Turmeric, which helps with internal inflammation, can help with external inflammation,” says Karen Wright, a certified nutrition specialist and functional nutritionist.

Your favorite sushi appetizer is also a stellar addition to your anti-aging routine. “Collagen, the fibrous protein that keeps skin firm and wrinkle-free, begins to decline in your 20s. Eating edamame, a food rich in soy, can help preserve collagen. Soy contains isoflavones–a natural compound that is capable of exerting estrogen-like effects,” says Dr. Calapai.

Hands are often one of the parts of the body that show signs of aging, from dark spots to crepey skin, soonest. For more youthful-looking skin, apply moisturizer after you wash your hands and wear gloves outside when the weather dips, says Nuytten.

If you’ve been using coconut oil as a moisturizer, you might be doing yourself a disservice and speeding up the aging process. “Some people swear by using pure coconut oil as a moisturizer for the skin and hair. Coconut oil can be a great emollient because it loves water and is attracted it, otherwise known as ‘hydrophilic.’ However, using pure coconut can actually pull water OUT of your skin because coconut is SO hydrophilic,” says Dr. Nayak.

Don’t wait to find out if that’s just a freckle or something more sinister. Getting any new spots checked out by a dermatologist is essential for your well-being. “Not all ‘age spots’ are simply ‘age spots,'” says Dr. Levy. “Only an evaluation of the skin by a certified dermatologist can determine the difference between potentially precancerous skin conditions and harmless skin marks that affect our appearance and self-esteem more than our health.”

Yes, even though you’re likely desparate to wear a tanktop and shorts during the summer months, Dr. Jeffrey P. Schachne, a dermatologist with CareMount Medical suggests that more clothing coverage will be safer for your skin. “[Wear] light cotton long sleeve/long pants clothing during the summer season,” he says.

Having a laser anywhere near your face can sound more like a torture scene from a James Bond movie than a beauty treatment, but don’t fear: today’s laser treatments are virtually painless and can yield major results. Dr. Kahan suggests that patients use treatments like the Fraxel laser to minimize the appearance of age-related skin issues. “This IPL (Intense Pulsated Light) laser is a great treatment option for sun damage, rough textured skin, brown spots, and fine lines, all of which can make you look older,” he says.

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Your dentist isn’t the only one who hates your soda habit; the syrupy stuff also wreaks havoc on your skin, making you age faster. “I once read a book that referred to soda as liquid Satan which always makes me laugh,” says Greenfield. “Soda does nothing beneficial for your body, it actually does more harm than anything. The massive amount of sugar from a soda changes the gut microbiome and can cause a rise in bad bacteria in the body and increases inflammation. This is not a good combo for your skin.”

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Washing your skin is a good thing, but getting it so clean that it virtually shines isn’t a healthy goal. “You don’t want to go for a squeaky clean, tight feel; that’s the prelude to dermatitis. It means you’ve over-stripped your oils,” says Dr. Bailey. “Look for ingredients like witch hazel and rosewater that will remove oil but not dry and irritate skin.”

Make your skin look younger in seconds sans Botox by finishing your cleansing routine with some cold water. “Splash your face with cool water 15 times after cleansing. It ultra hydrates and plumps the skin up with water while closing the pores so dirt won’t get in!” says Dr. Nayak.

A little cherry juice could be the answer to a more restful slumber and fewer fine lines and wrinkles. “Who knew that this tangy drink naturally contains melatonin? Well, it does,” says Dr. Calapai. “And melatonin promotes sleep. Beauty sleep – enough said.” Adequate rest can help your body repair itself, making your skin look more refreshed and youthful.

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More isn’t always better when it comes to aging. In fact, certain potent creams can dry out your skin and make it more susceptible to wrinkling. “It’s important to discuss with your doctor or skin care specialist which product is best for your skin,” says Dr. Shafer. “A higher percentage may not be better in all cases as you may end up with skin irritation or dryness.” Don’t let your hard work be for naught; cutting out the 20 Habits That Age You Faster will help you maintain that youthful glow.

A Dermatologist’s Guide to Anti-Aging In Your 20s

Caroline Tompkins / Refinery29 for Getty ImagesGetty Images

I’ll just put it out there: I’m 22. I am not overwhelmingly concerned about crow’s feet, sagging skin, dark spots, wrinkles, fine lines, or any other signs of aging. I do have one prominent wrinkle on my forehead, which I blame on my expressive eyebrows that shoot up every time I hear something shocking, which, these days, is about 10 times a day. Other than that, I generally feel like I have a few more years before I start to worry about signs of aging. I like to think that one day I will age gracefully, sans any surgical or injectable help. This is not due to judgment toward such procedures (that’s a personal choice you should feel liberated to make), but because I’ve watched Botched too many times and now live in fear.

Imagine how surprised I was, after scrolling past anti-aging products for the past few years, when I found out I actually should be using them on my skin. In fact, I’m already late to the anti-aging game! Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, board-certified dermatologist and founder of her own skincare line, kindly informed me that by my 20th birthday I should have started taking anti-aging seriously. After peppering Dr. Loretta with my most pressing questions about aging for 20-somethings, she generously shared tips I’m telling all my friends, below.

Why should 20-somethings take anti-aging seriously?

If you’re looking in the mirror and see only baby-soft, taut skin, this question may have crossed your mind. For the past few generations, anti-aging was predominantly targeted at women 30 and up. However, for millennials and Gen Zers, the presence of gorgeous celebrities who seem to never age in addition to younger and younger women doing chemical peels seems to have brought anti-aging to a younger audience.

Additionally, Dr. Loretta actually does believe that we are starting to age faster than before. “I am seeing more women in their 20s with lines and other stigmata of aging that previously hadn’t surfaced until the 30’s,” Dr. Loretta shares. And there’s a reason for it: “I attribute this to the external factors that are aging us faster and at younger ages, including pollution, visible light and even irritants often from the multiplicity of products we are ‘experimenting’ with, which leads to irritation and in turn to collagen breakdown among other unwanted skin aging changes.” Yikes.

How can we incorporate anti-aging tips into our skincare routines?

So if we accept that our bad behavior is starting to age us more quickly, there are products and techniques we can use to take care of our skin in a healthy and age-appropriate way. “I love using protective products, like daily antioxidants and also using an SPF that includes HEV blue light protection,” Dr. Loretta says. “It can also help to start doing weekly or monthly at-home peels like glycolic or physical peels or using microdermabrasion and micro-needling tools.”

If you’re thinking about running off to be the first 20-year-old to get a facelift, here’s an important distinction: anti-aging in your 20s is different than in your 60s. “Typically in your 20s you focus on prevention whereas in your 60s you are more focused on correction. But all anti-aging efforts and products should focus on addressing the damage done by both UV and visible light, pollution, climate changes and irritants.” Instead of jumping to intense procedures that might not be appropriate for younger skin, begin by protecting your skin so you may not need to take dramatic action when you are older.

But anti-aging isn’t about looking young.

If you’re still not convinced that your youthful skin needs anti-aging intervention, here’s one last piece of advice: “I take great issue with the goal of anti-aging making you look younger. I think that the best anti-aging goal should be to look like the freshest version of yourself.”

While you may not be able to visibly see signs of aging, there can be cellular damage caused by your environment that, down the line, will make you age faster and perhaps less gracefully than you’d like. “I think the best goal is to age confidently with healthy looking skin that has an even tone, minimal redness and no very deep lines,” Dr. Loretta shares. Well, that seems like something worth looking into.

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Tatjana Freund
Beauty Commerce Writer
Tatjana Freund is a Beauty Commerce Writer, covering makeup, skincare, and haircare products and trends.

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10 easy anti-ageing tips every gal should know

You’ve swapped your smoking habit for a sunscreen one and are drinking 2 litres of water a day, but there are other easy ways to fight the onset of ageing that you might not have tried before. Incorporate these simple steps into your life and challenge the clock.

1. Eat your sunscreen

Rule number one – always wear broad spectrum SPF on your face which protects against UVA and UVB rays. Rule number two – eat them! Certain foods are known to increase lycopene, the skin’s own SPF. An antioxidant found in tomatoes, and other red and orange fruit and veg, it can boost your sun protection by a whopping 33%. One of the best sources is tomato paste – did someone say spag bol? Green tea is another great example and it also contains caffeine which is thought to help cut your skin cancer risk. If you need a treat, high quality dark chocolate is packed with flavonoids that can help protect against sunburn. Bonus!

2. Move more

Exercising is as good for your skin as it is for your body and one reason is because it releases a compound called IL 15, which prevents cell death. A skin study by McMaster University in Canada revealed that participants who took part in just two cycling session a week for three months showed changes that they reported made the skin look up to decades younger. Amazing. Here are more reasons why exercise is good for your skin.

3. Facial massage

Take a minute every night to massage in your skincare products, which in turn helps to lift your facial muscles. Do circular motions with the fingertips in opposite directions on each hand, this encourages elasticity and breaks the pattern of tension helping prevent a degeneration of the tissues.

4. Eat less sugar

A diet high in sugar accelerates the process of glycation which ages skin. Mica Engel of London’s Waterhouse Young Clinic explains in Sweet Nothing by Nicole Mowbray, “Glycation is when excess glucose from the blood-stream binds to the skin’s ‘youth proteins’ (the collagen and elastin that makes youthful complexions appear so plump and doughy) and instead turns them brittle and stiff.” This caramelisation process kisses baby faces goodbye. Swap sugar-laden treats for anti-ageing antioxidants such as dark berries, avocados and green juices.

5. Quench your skin

“With age, skin’s ability to hold water decreases and dehydration is common” according to Dr Joe Cincotta of Time Bomb cosmetics. What does this mean? It looks flat and fine lines appear that need to be quenched with moisture-retaining skincare, on top of drinking water. Check out the best buys for a moisture surge here.

6. Exfoliate twice weekly

Encouraging the sheading of dead skin cells speeds up the growth of new ones. Young skin is smooth and reflects the light better whereas older skin tends to be rougher which refracts light, so regular exfoliation will help you maintain your radiance and a bright youthful glow.

7. Up your oils

Cosmo’s Beauty Director swears by taking omega oils from a young age – fish or vegetable omega oil capsules consumed daily, as well as applying a few drops of rosehip (or another omega-rich) face oil every night. These ‘good fats’ are responsible for the health of the cell membrane, which – when healthy – yields more subtle skin.

8. Always remove your makeup

Never go to bed with an uncleansed face – it’s undoubtedly ageing given that it immediately clogs (and stretches) pores and over time causes collagen breakdown. Use a balm or a gentle foam cleanser in the shower – they take your makeup off as well and rinse off clean. Easy!

9. Facial yoga

Your face needs to MOVE to retain elasticity. Like your body, if you don’t exercise your facial muscles they can slacken. The more they move, the more they retain elasticity and suppleness. Try these 6 yoga poses for a pain-free facelift! Yoga, for the face or not, is also a good technique for stress-busting which is important in the fight against ageing as stress can accelerate skins ageing by up to 10 years.

10. Get more beauty sleep

When you’re tired you tend to get stressed easily and crave junk food – both of which are notorious agers. Not only does getting 8 hours shut-eye minimise this, when you sleep your skin repairs itself and new cells grow to replace older ones. The growth hormone functions only at night, so beauty sleep is more than a myth – it’s why humans are diurnal.

Bridget March
Bridget March is Bazaar’s Digital Beauty Director overseeing all beauty content for harpersbazaar.co.uk, including fitness and wellbeing.

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27 Common Anti-Aging Tips You Should Forget Immediately

As you find more wrinkles and signs of your distress on your body, the panic inevitable sets in: you’re getting old. It seems that since the moment the human race discovered that they weren’t going to live forever, a whole host of anti-aging products and homemade remedies (your nana’s skin didn’t age a day past 40 because she ate ice cream every day!) began infiltrating every market. And, with so many products and tips promising to reverse or halt the signs of aging, how do you know which ones to actually believe?

Well, luckily for you, it’s not a tall order to cut through the noise and parse out which tips, in specific, don’t actually do the trick. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up some of the most common snippets of advice that are, at the end of the day, bunk. Once you purge this so-called “wisdom” from your repertoire, you’ll be well on your way to ethereal, glowing skin—for years to come.

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According to dermatologist Fayne Frey, drinking water is essential to your health, but doesn’t actually provide extra moisture to fight the aging of your skin. In fact, there’s no substantial research that even shows that drinking more than your fair share of water will arm your skin with anti-aging benefits. (Just to be crystal clear, though: don’t take this to drink less water. Stick with the recommended eight glasses a day, which benefits everything from your organ health to your energy levels.)

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That’s right—rather than purchasing an anti-aging product based on its price tag (which you’re sure must reflect the quality of the item), zero in on the ingredients that every product contains. To ensure that you’re grabbing the best product possible off the shelf, first read the concentration of key ingredients (a higher concentration is better) and manufacturer (make sure it’s a brand you recognize, or have at least read amazing reviews about) to make sure that it’s a quality investment.

The lesson learned from this myth: don’t believe in the anti-aging treatments that sound too good to be true. If you’re unfamiliar with this procedure, often called the “vampire facelift,” here’s how it works. Basically, a few tubes of your own blood are drawn, spun in a centrifuge until it separates into different components, and then the plasma from the blood is injected back into your face. While this procedure may be popular (celebrities like Kim Kardashian regularly boast about its benefits), according to plastic surgeon Patti Flint, there is no real evidence that shows that this invasive solution actually works at all.

“The bad news is that nothing is actually lifted, unlike the name of the procedure implies. Additionally, there is not a shred of medical evidence that proves that this procedure has any lasting effects. There are a few starlets that profess the wonders of these treatments, but no scientific studies that show any significant benefit,” she says.

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While some may tout the benefits of using alternating temperatures in the shower, there is actually no evidence that backs up the benefits of this hot-to-cold-to-hot method.

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Just a few years ago, the internet was buzzing about this new type of facial, containing feces from nightingales from the island of Kyushu, in Japan. Still, those seeking a cure for their aging skin turn to this, uh, interesting, alternative, despite there being little scientific evidence to prove that the feces contain any anti-aging properties. In fact, while many spas offering this treatment declare that it can help brighten and restore skin, most scientists have yet to prove this, and only notice the facial’s ability to make the skin appear glittery for a day after it is applied.

For most, a trip to the spa would almost be incomplete without the application of cucumbers on the eyelids. And, while cucumbers can alleviate swelling and redness around the eyes temporarily, the antioxidants that they contain will not work to actually eliminate those dark circles under your eyes, according to Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis, an Austin-based dermatologist. So, while this cherished spa luxury may be a great way to reduce swelling around the eyes, its magical powers are only short-term.

No, facial exercises do not prevent your skin from developing wrinkles. In fact, they often do more harm than good, with some dermatologists even stating that repeated facial contortions exacerbate existing wrinkles. As it turns out, there is no exercise that can prevent the collagen depletion in your face.

For this facial, participants are sprayed with a machine that contains a stream of pressurized oxygen, said to instantly hydrate the skin. While celebrities like Madonna once deemed this facial a miracle worker, many beauty experts and scientists are still skeptical about its long-term impacts on the aging process. As Dr. Christopher B. Zachary, a professor and dermatology department chairman at the University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine told the New York Times, there is little evidence that supports the positive effects of pressurized oxygen on the skin. “The concept that high-pressure oxygen would do anything to help the skin is such nonsense as to be laughable,” he said.

While the “more is more” method may seem like the favorable approach when it comes to preserving your skin’s vibrancy as you age, it’s important to remember that these skin care products still contain ingredients that are liable to drain the precious moisture from your skin, no matter how natural the ingredients may be. Using more than two or three different products on your face will only dry out your skin, leaving you even more prone to age-related blemishes.

Since retinol is an incredibly powerful potent source of collagen-producing vitamin A for your skin, it’s best to only use it a couple of times a week in order to avoid drying out your skin, says Emmy Graber, MD, a dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at the Boston University School of Medicine. However, if you’re really looking to benefit from the effects of this cream, you can begin by applying only a pea-size amount to the skin, to reduce the possibility of redness and flaking skin.

While household remedies seem to be more organic, and therefore, better for you, it turns out that many of them might contain allergens and ingredients that work against your skin. So, rather than spend the afternoon making a homemade concoction for your skin, just make a quick trip to the store to find all the ingredients in products that are already made and tested by professionals.

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While yes, aging is determined by your genetics, the habits that you develop during your lifetime can also either shorten or extend your lifespan, as well as dictate your quality of life. For example, smoking, lack of exercise, and eating unhealthy foods will weaken the defenses in the body that are there to protect you from the diseases that prevent you from living a long, happy life.

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While many older women (my mother included) claim that a certain brand moisturizer helped their skin age more gracefully, Dr. Michelle Levy, a dermatologist based in Toronto, knows that this is a false idea. “Unfortunately, the notion that moisturizers on their own prevent wrinkles is a myth (these women were likely genetically blessed). Unless your moisturizer contains sunscreen or other active ingredients that are known to mitigate skin aging, it alone will not prevent wrinkle,” she said. Bottom line: your moisturizer alone does not contain any properties that will prevent the aging of your skin.

As it turns out, those wrinkles around your mouth are not the result of a life of excessive smiling. As Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center told Time Magazine, the fault doesn’t lie with your facial expressions—it’s instead all due to your skin’s diminishing elasticity. As a result of your skin’s aging process (along with genetic factors), wrinkles around your mouth are unavoidable.

While this might be partly true, many dermatologists agree that removing your makeup before bed only ensures that your skin has a chance to breathe—not that this act will actually keep your skin looking younger. In fact, your skin will still be exposed to the free radicals in your environment, whether or not they are trapped in your makeup. So, the idea that wearing your makeup an extra eight hours could cause significant damage to your skin is not accurate.

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While it has been proven that stress causes us to age less gracefully than others more at peace, David Fisher, professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School tells Scientific American that the graying process is far more complicated, as many different factors, both genetic and lifestyle-related, can contribute to early graying. While it is known that stress can impact the survival of melanocytes (the stem cells that give our hair its pigment), scientists have yet to link stress and gray hair.

First of all, to be clear, nothing can actually reverse the process of aging. In the past couple of years, it seems that every publication is quick to tout the benefits of antioxidants, like resveratrol, for example, which many believe may reverse signs of aging. However, as displayed by this study published in The Journal of Physiology, one would need to consume mass amounts of antioxidants in order to reap any of their benefits. So, if you find yourself working hard to introduce more antioxidant-heavy foods into your diet, just know that you’ll never really consume enough to reverse the signs of aging that are inevitable.

While DHEA, a hormone produced by your adrenal glands, can be a healthy hormonal supplement to treat a number of ailments like Crohn’s disease and infertility, it can prove to be a dangerous option for those simply looking to turn back the clock on aging, according to the experts at the Hormone Health Network. In fact, when taken just for immunity health, this hormone supplement can actually throw off your body’s hormone levels, causing women to produce more testosterone and for men to produce more estrogen. Further, there has been no proven connection between hormone supplements and an improved immunity to the aging process.

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Good news for those who hate sticking to diets: it turns out that cutting calories actually has no proven effect on your lifespan. While many new studies attempt to prove that a calorie-restricted diet can have positive effects on the aging process, Dr. Luigi Fontana, a research professor of medicine at Washington University in St. Louis tells Live Science that the way organisms sense nutrients is a more likely factor that contributes to aging—which can’t be changed by dieting.

In the world of healthy living, there seems to be a misconception about carbohydrates. In fact, you can see the distrust of this food group with the creation of a number of low-carb or carb-free diets that claim that the absence of carbs will do the body good. news flash: our bodies need carbs. That’s not to say that processed carbs aren’t bad for you, because, in fact, they are—but including a healthy amount of whole grain, unrefined carbs (like those in fruits and vegetables) will keep your body healthy and happy well into your golden years.

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Just in the past decade, an overwhelming amount of protein supplements and bars have hit the market—and consumers are buying into what they’re selling. Despite the common belief that consuming more protein will make the body young and strong no matter your age, there is a limit to how much protein you should be consuming—and it’s less than you think. In fact, the recommended dietary allowance for protein is .4 grams per pound of body weight, which, in a 150-pound person, amounts to 60 grams daily. Eat a chicken breast, then, and you’ve fulfilled your dietary allowance of protein for the day.

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Just because you’re officially “over the hill” doesn’t mean that you can’t work out as you did in your twenties. In fact, maintaining an active and strenuous workout regime, according to the Mayo Clinic, can actually help to reverse some of the effects of aging in your body. Researchers actually found that those over the age of 65 who participated in high-intensity interval training experienced a reversal of age-related muscle deterioration. In short: don’t wimp out with your exercise routine just because you’re aging.

While yes, dietary supplements work to keep your body healthy, taking them alone will do nothing to reverse the aging process. Perhaps though, when combined with a healthy diet, exercise, and great genetics, there might be a difference to speak of, in terms of anti-aging effects.

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For your skin’s sake, it’s best to slather on the sunscreen no matter the season—even during winter, New York City dermatologist Dendy Engelman told Vogue. “People used to think, ‘What’s the point of wearing sunblock in winter?’ especially in Manhattan, where you never see the sun. But now we know that even your office lighting, your phone screen can be harmful,” she said.

While different kinds of lasers can erase sunspots and activate collagen, many patients believe that these laser treatments are a cure-all for their aging skin—when they’re definitely not. According to Jenny Kim, MD, an assistant professor of medicine and dermatology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California at Los Angeles, these lasers can only do so much to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. If you have more than 20 years worth of damage done to your skin, a laser is not likely to provide much relief.

Also, according to Dr. Kim, while topical creams containing vitamin C do possess the ability to fight your skin’s aging, be warned: creams that contain vitamin C tend to destabilize very quickly, so it’s best to purchase from reputable (read: expensive) brand names. In terms of anti-aging products, this is one that might as well be surpassed.

The myth: that Preparation H, when applied under the eyes, can help to reduce or remove the dark circles under your eyes. The fact: according to Self magazine, while it does restrict the blood vessels to temporarily stop puffiness and redness, the risks far outweigh the rewards, as the potential of it getting into your eyes and severely damaging them would create a whole other (far greater) issue.

5 Easy Anti Aging Tips: Its More than Just Wrinkles

A youthful skin that defies age, isn’t that on the wish list of most around us? Who wouldn’t want to turn back time and shed a few years off their face? Many would secretly flip through pages of fashion magazines and browse tips and tricks to look younger. A few others wouldn’t mind resorting to cosmetic treatments to get that enviable younger look. Unfortunately, reality doesn’t rely on shortcuts. It’s about time we realised the mechanism of the human ageing process and understand its irreversible nature. Ageing is a gradual process which can be slowed down further, but never stopped. Two people of the same age may look different in terms of their age. This difference is an output of a combination of factors – genetic makeup, heredity traits and lifestyle.

It is said that a beautiful skin usually comes as an inheritance, but it doesn’t really stop at that, does it? A lot also depends on how well you protect and safeguard your health. Good genes can’t help you if you lead an unhealthy lifestyle.
 

_{Ageing is a gradual process which can be slowed down further, but never stopped. Image credits: iStock}

Talking of genes, a recent study on ageing as reported by Daily Mail, UK, suggests the existence of a certain gene responsible for making you look older. According to the study, those who have copies of the ‘ageing gene’ look at least two years older than their actual biological age. Others who have just one such gene look older by about a year. Surprisingly, there exists a vast majority who may not have the gene altogether; these are the fortunate ones to retain their younger look.

It’s Much More than a Wrinkle

Ageing doesn’t start and stop at wrinkling. One needs to be watchful of many other signs as well. As you age you will see age spots, freckles and deep lines around all major folds on your face. Those lines at the sides of your eyes are known as crow’s feet. You also have jowls which show the sagging of the jaw muscles and tissues.
 

_{As you age you will see age spots, freckles and deep lines around all major folds on your face. Image credits: iStock}

According to an anti-ageing expert and leading dermatologist, Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj, “Facial ageing has many forms. There are certain factors that accelerate the pace of this process. Usually it happens over the years owing to gravitational changes and loss of skin elasticity. As we grow older our body witnesses the damage of cartilage, bones and tissues that are beneath the skin (loss of subcutaneous fat). On loss of these elements, the skin tends to lose support and starts sagging.”

Repetitive muscle activity, exposure to radiation, UV rays (sun damage or photodamage) and harmful chemicals also add to skin degeneration and ageing.

5 Ways to Slow Down Ageing

As discussed above, ageing cannot be stopped, however, you can ensure better lifestyle and routine practices to delay it or slow it down. Below is a host of features one should keep in mind:

1. Skin Care Regime

Ask yourself, do you have a skin regime? Do you cleanse, exfoliate, message and moisturise? Experts suggest that a standard skin care regime is of the utmost importance to prevent accelerated ageing. “Do not get facials from anybody and anywhere. Do not change products too often. Chemicals can be extremely damaging to your skin,” shares Dr. Deepali. Opt for natural and herbal ingredients. Identify your skin and choose products accordingly. Application matters the most. Apply products with thin consistency followed by the creamier ones. “Sunblock and moisturisers are very important. Wear an effective sunscreen every day, rain or sun!” exclaims Dr. Bharadwaj.
 

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How to handle your face has a great impact on the creation of fine lines on your face. Always dab your face; never rub with hands, tissue, cotton or towel. Do not sleep on your stomach with your face down, it damages your skin and results sleep creases. Keep a check on dry skin. Do not neglect your hands, feet and neck. Always remove your makeup before going to bed. Yes, that kajal too!

2. Hydrate

Water, water, water! How many times will you turn away from the fact that drinking – at least – 2-3 litres of water is a must for healthy functioning of your body. It is great for skin as well. Just as your skin requires external moisturization and hydration, our body needs enough water to work properly. If drinking plain water bores you, opt for other fluids like coconut water, fresh fruit juices, buttermilk, sherbets, etc.

3. Learn to Say No

Say no to excessive smoking and drinking, prolonged sitting, late working hours, processed foods, excess of caffeine, stress, sedentary lifestyle and obesity.
 

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4. You Are What You Eat

The importance of an ideal, balanced diet is known to all but practiced by a few. Dr. Deepali suggests including lots of seasonal produce in the diet for a healthy and glowing skin. “Yellow and purple coloured fruits and veggies especially. These are great for your skin,” she notes. “Avoid red meat and fattening foods, instead, have fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, legumes, nuts, whole grains, seeds and dairy products on a daily basis. Olive oil can safely be added to your daily diet. Sweets, eggs, poultry and fish should be eaten in intervals during the week. All these should always be teamed with at least 30 minutes of physical exercise,” concludes Dr. Bharadwaj.

Foods to avoid:

– High glycemic load carbohydrates – anything made of refined sugar

– Refined starch – maida-based breads and pastas

– Refined grains – white rice

– High starch – potatoes

– Commercially processed vegetable oils, fruit juices, beverages and packaged food material

5. Compromise anything but sleep

Needless to say, eight hours of sound sleep is essential for everybody and should never be compromised.

The Best Anti-Aging Tips Only Beauty Editors Know

Let us introduce you to part two of the “our job rules” series. Last month, we shared with you the best makeup tips we’ve learned as beauty editors, and now, we’re spilling the anti-aging tricks and rules we live by every single day. Some of our trusted anti-aging tips are things we’ve learned from dermatologists, some are things we’ve learned from celebrities, and some are things we’ve discovered all on our own from testings hundreds of products a year (we know, our job is a struggle). Here are the best anti-aging tips only beauty editors know (besides always wearing sunscreen, because we expect you to know that by now).

RELATED: You’re Probably Still Making These 4 Common Retinol Mistakes

Make hats your best friend. “I love sunglasses, but they don’t really provide a lot of coverage, and I’m trying to stave off hyperpigmentation as best I can. So in addition to sunscreen—because obviously—anytime I’m running out and I know I’ll be bathed in even the tiniest ounce of sun, I put on a hat with a decent-size brim, like a baseball cap or a fedora. It’s cute, hides a bad-hair day, and shelters my skin from unnecessary sun damage.” —Ariba Alvi, associate social media producer

Put on your creams and serums with serious thought. “I like to use my weakest finger, my ring finger, to apply eye cream. If there’s any leftover cream on my fingers, I apply it on my laugh lines. After I put on my moisturizer, I tap my face—not to the point of pain, but with just enough force—a couple of times to improve blood circulation.” —Seunghee Suh, digital editor

And when it comes to eye creams, always tap. “I remember once at a desk side with Clarins, the expert told me the best way to apply eye cream around the eye area is by gently tapping it in with your finger since the skin around the eye is so sensitive. I also keep my eye cream in the fridge to help with puffiness…that I learned from Chrissy Teigen.” —Chantel Morel, digital assistant beauty editor

Never forget your neck. “I used to always apply all my fancy creams and serums just on my face. But then I looked at my neck and realized that it’s out in the sun and the environment as much as my face. It needs those serums and creams just as much as my forehead does.” —Renee Jacques, associate digital editor

90,000 7 Simple Tips – Wonderzine

Continuing the aging theme, we have compiled seven simple and versatile tips that, along with proper personal care, can help keep your skin looking good.

Do not sleep with your face in the pillow

If you lie on one side for one night , the wrinkles due to creases of the skin will not remain for long, but if you do this for several years, real wrinkles will appear.And if you slip your hand under the pillow during sleep, then visible creases are formed already in the area of ​​the collarbones. It is best to sleep on your back – in general, it is healthier for the skin and for the neck.

Do not forget about Sanskrin

No, we are not tired of talking about this: the sun does not stop shining. Try to make it as easy as possible for yourself to access the sanitary blocks during the day: choose hand cream and lip balm with SPF and place duplicates of them near the work monitor, and hair spray – where you will not forget about it.As an alternative to a separate facial sanitary block, you can use BB cream, but then do not forget about the hydrophilic oil – only it completely flushes the BB from the skin.

Use the cream not only on the face

This is generally applies to any creams: sunscreen, tonal, moisturizing or nourishing. With sunscreens, everything is clear, tonal – because the border of the transition from a natural tone to an applied one is visible along the entire oval of the face, and not only in the lower part of it.With moisturizing, the same rule: the face is not the center of the Universe, and you need to pay attention to the whole body in general.

Apply the cream with patting movements

Smearing the cream every day means stretching the skin every day. So even if you are not ready to do a daily mini-massage with two free hands, then seal at least one, and do not smear cream or serum. Eye cream is generally advised to apply with the ring finger – it is the weakest (but you can just try not to drive in with all your might).

Remember about massage lines

Massage lines (their designations are similar to maps of the world’s ocean currents), the skin stretches less than – bingo – not for massage. Ideally, you need to wash off your makeup and apply masks, and you need to wash your face on them, but start at least with applying the cream, and then go to the rest. Line diagrams are the same type everywhere and are easily googled, and for advanced users such a workshop can be useful.

Watch your facial expressions

It’s even harder than learning to sleep on your back. Just watch yourself: if you frown or squint unnecessarily often, try to unlearn it. You can even bring in a friend or boyfriend and ask them to speak up when you frown, which is often impossible to tell on your own.

Choose care according to the season

It all depends on the type of skin: oily, a gel or serum may be enough, as in summer, but dry (prone to wrinkles and therefore, including requiring more food) winter care is required.There are many options: switch from the lighter version of the cream to the one labeled “rich”; buy a bottle of hyaluronic acid and add it drop by drop to the cream or supplement it with serum (if not already) or oil – in this case, the latter should be applied to the cream, and not vice versa.

Illustrations: Masha Shishova

How to prevent aging of the skin of the hands

Aging is a more than natural process, you should not be afraid of it. The main thing is to notice the first signs of skin aging in time, then choose effective cosmetics in order to slow down their accumulation.To maintain your beauty, use an anti-aging cream. In combination with gentle cleansing, this will help preserve and prolong the beauty and youthfulness of the skin of the hands.

What gives a woman’s age even stronger than the numbers in the passport?

• Fatigue. This is both general fatigue of the body and many small nuances that add up to a sad picture.
• Wrinkles. The first noticeable symptom that all people over the age of 30 face.Wrinkles appear in various areas of the skin. Small, at first shallow wrinkles first form on the face, and then appear on the arms, neck.
• Dull skin color. Over time, the skin loses its ability to retain moisture, a healthy color gives way to a dull, painful shade.
• Decreased turgor. The density and elasticity of the skin directly depends on the production of elastin and collagen, which begins to gradually decrease after 25 years. If you feel that you can grab and pull the skin, then we are talking about a loss of volume and density.With age, the skin becomes thinner, loses its density, its firmness and elasticity decreases. Dealing with these problems is not too difficult.

Youthful Skin Intensive Hand Cream from the Professional Series will prolong the feeling of hydration. It will help to even out tone and relief, slow down the aging process, and increase elasticity. And the formula of the cream helps to activate its own processes of restoration and rejuvenation of the skin.

Do not use anti-aging face cream for hands.The skin of the hands differs significantly from the skin of the face – for example, in thickness, and therefore requires specialized care.

Internal causes of wilting

Some factors of aging, unfortunately, are beyond the control of neither us, nor cosmetologists. Biological age determines the general direction of structural and functional changes in the skin. Many problems are associated with poor blood flow to the skin. This leads to a weakening of its natural nourishment from the inside out, which can give rise to dryness, loss of firmness and radiance.

Heredity also plays an important role. Learn how women of your ethnicity age and start fighting for youthful, glowing skin well in advance. Light skin is considered more susceptible to photoaging due to the relatively low content of melanin, while in Asians, the skin is more prone to age-related pigmentation.

Is your skin protected from the sun? Like an anti-aging face cream, a hand care product contains various elements. A good anti-aging skin care product contains sunscreen and UV protection.

External causes of aging

Most of the external influences that accelerate skin aging can be described in one term – oxidative stress. It consists in the formation of free radicals in the skin (for example, reactive oxygen species or peroxide radicals). If we exist in normal conditions (we observe the regime, eat properly, get enough water and vitamins, do not forget about sports, correctly support the skin with cosmetic measures), free radicals will be bound and neutralized by antioxidants.However, our lifestyle is often far from ideal, and the quality of the environment leaves much to be desired. The processes of oxidative stress can “outweigh” the protective and regenerative potential of skin cells, giving rise to its premature aging.

The environment can be very destructive for the epidermis: it is necessary to regularly clean it from mechanical impurities. What else should be used against skin aging? Find a quality hand soap that gently cleanses and moisturizes your skin with every use.Deep moisturizing solid cream soap with a delicate aroma is suitable for all skin types. Olive oil and Velvet Handle cream ingredients will nourish and moisturize your skin
already during washing.

Minimize external harm

1. Help epidermal cells renew themselves regularly and in a timely manner. The easiest way is to use a hand scrub 1-2 times a week, after which be sure to apply a suitable hand cream.

2. Eat varied but balanced.Avoid mono-diets, do not limit yourself in the choice of fruits, vegetables, cereals, but control their amount.

3. Give up bad habits. Alcohol and smoking have a negative effect on the body in general and accelerate skin aging in particular.

Conclusion

Consider a couple more nuances. No matter how good the cream is, the real result is brought only by its regular use – if a cosmetic product is gathering dust on the shelf, there is no sense in it.Don’t forget: all the tools you use
from skin aging should be combined with each other to maximize the effect.

90,000 Durov named seven ways to combat aging :: Society :: RBC

Durov named seven rules to help people look younger.According to the founder of Telegram, he himself has been following them for more than ten years.

Photo: Pavel Durov on Facebook

The founder of Telegram, Pavel Durov, has listed seven rules that help, according to him, look younger than his years.He published this list on his Telegram channel.

“I am turning 36, and they ask me how I manage to look younger than my age,” wrote Durov.

He has asked the same question to other people who look younger, he says, from American actor and rock musician Jared Leto to the occasional fitness trainer “who looks 25 at 50.”

As a result, he came up with seven basic rules. Among them:

• do not drink alcohol .Durov made “rare exceptions”, but noted that in general, alcohol, like other addictive substances, makes people “less healthy and looks older”;
• sleep a lot . “Sleep is when your body recovers. You cannot borrow it: the lack of sleep during the week cannot be compensated for by sleeping on the weekends, ”Durov noted;
• Do not overeat , as being overweight adds years and is “associated with dozens of diseases.”Durov himself noted that he usually eats once or twice a day, without snacks. “Eating more than three times a day is just a (bad) habit,” he wrote;
• moderate but regular physical activity ;
• limit stress . According to Durov, a number of mental habits and stoic techniques can help with this, for example, belief that everything is happening for the better, negative visualization and indifference. He also advised living close to nature;
• do not eat meat .Most younger looking people have given up on farm-raised red meat, Durov said. Alternatively, he suggested seafood and wild fish;
• live alone . “Surprisingly, all of the young-looking middle-aged men I spoke to have spent most of their lives alone. This may be the result of their independence from sleep patterns, nutrition, behavior of another person. Or is it just a correlation, and people who are independent of unhealthy social norms are also independent in their personal lives, “Durov said.

12 tips from neuroscientists to help slow the aging process

Each of us wants to stay young as long as possible. But what can be done if time is not turned back? Most scientists are sure that the aging process can be delayed if you know some rules. For example, it is worth including mushrooms in the diet more often. You can find out more details about nutrition and other scientifically proven methods of prolonging youth from our article.

AdMe.ru believes: a person’s age is just a number. The most important thing is how old you feel yourself. Especially for you, we have collected the most effective ways that will help you stay vigorous, clear mind and look great for as long as possible.

1. Make friends

If you still don’t have friends, put this task as a priority. Long-term friendship has a positive effect on the special areas of chromosomes that are responsible for the aging process.Research shows that friendship and goodwill with people can significantly reduce the rate of brain aging. Moreover, the more friends and the warmer the relationship with them, the better.

2. Go dancing

Physically active people can slow down the aging process of the brain. At the same time, the effect of dancing significantly exceeds intensive training: noticeable improvements in the brain have a positive effect on the body as well. Dances with a change of choreography are especially useful: different musical genres, new combinations of movements, rhythms and speed.All this improves memory and learning ability.

3. Learn to manage stress

Our attitude to what is happening, and especially to difficulties, is of great importance. It is worth taking trials not as a hopeless situation, but as a situation from which you need to find a way out. This attitude increases blood flow to the heart and brain and triggers short bursts of the hormone cortisol, which helps us build our defenses against external threats and stressful situations.And this is directly related to the preservation of youth.

4. Go out to society

Lead an active life: communicate, make friends, go to meetings, exhibitions and concerts. And consider work not only as a way to make a living, but also as an opportunity to communicate with interesting people. All this gives us pleasant impressions and emotions and prolongs youth .

5. Learn new things

Despite the fact that the brain starts to work less actively with age, we can maintain our intellectual skills and the power of abstract thinking at a high level.To achieve this, you need to regularly learn and learn.

In old age, learning foreign languages ​​is an excellent way to keep your mind clear. It’s not easy, but the results will not be slow to show. By the way, the received higher education also prolongs life, and this is not surprising: such people, as a rule, lead a healthier lifestyle, drink less, and play more sports.

6. Cycling

Scientists have proven that regular cycling slows down the aging process.For fans of this sport, the level of fat and cholesterol in the blood does not increase, and in men, high testosterone levels also remain. In addition, cyclists do not lose strength and muscle mass. Pedaling enthusiasts age optimally – without the problems usually caused by a lack of regular physical activity. With the exclusion of regular cycling from the usual way of life, the state of health also deteriorates.

7. Reduce portions of food

Reducing the diet helps to slow down the aging of the body.This leads to changes in biochemical processes in the body that affect the aging process of cells. At the same time, it is important that the body receives all the necessary vitamins and nutrients in full. In addition, smaller portions reduce the incidence of illness and provide more energy.

8. Include porcini mushrooms in your diet.

American scientists said that people who regularly eat porcini mushrooms feel much younger than their age. All this is due to the special substances contained in these mushrooms – ergothioneine and glutathione, which neutralize damaged cells.In addition, they prevent the onset of cancer and cardiovascular diseases, as well as Alzheimer’s disease.

9. Reduce the amount of sweets in the diet

Limiting sweets is not only good for the figure, but also prolongs the youth of the whole organism.

In conditions of a lack of carbohydrates, our body begins to produce a chemical that protects tissue cells from damage. However, it is recommended to increase the amount of healthy fats in the diet, which are found in foods such as fish, meat and vegetable oils.Compliance with such a diet will help reduce the risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer.

10. Try to communicate on your mobile phone as little as possible

Excessive use of your mobile phone can cause premature aging. The thing is that the electromagnetic radiation of gadgets harms blood cells, and also affects liver enzymes, endocrine glands, muscles, heart, bone marrow and disrupts hormonal balance.

Cairo scientists see the risk not only for the owners of mobile phones, but also for people living near high-voltage lines, factories, mobile towers. The safe distance from them is at least 20 meters, in some cases – from a kilometer. And when communicating on the phone, you can use a headset or communicate via Skype.

11. Give up the formulaic phrases

Try every time to come up with new answers to the usual questions like “How are you?”, “What’s new?”, “What are you doing?”.Memorize anecdotes, interesting quotes, come up with new jokes, interesting stories – and use them in communication.

If you are creative with your words, then you stimulate the memory and brain centers of speech – the left temporal region of the Wernicke and Broca zones.

12. Do coordination exercises

Such exercises increase the efficiency of the brain. Try this exercise:

• Prepare a lemon and a chair.
• Lie on your back with a chair behind your head. Squeeze the lemon between your feet.
• Raise your legs so that you can put the lemon on the chair.
• Lower your legs, then lift and grab the lemon from the chair, returning to the starting position.

Young people in good physical shape can put lemon not on a chair, but on the floor behind their head.

Which method did you like the most? Maybe you have your own secrets of youth?

Illustrator Natalia Tylosova specially for AdMe.ru

[5 tips], a review of 9 products

How to preserve youthfulness and beauty of facial skin

It is necessary to start taking care of skin youthfulness long before the first signs of aging appear. Proper care, selected in accordance with the type of skin (dry, normal, oily, combination), will help normalize metabolic processes, improve blood circulation and provide adequate hydration and nutrition.

It is also important to remember that the prolongation of youth is a long-term task.With age, the needs of our skin change, and after them the composition of the care products should also change. Only the stages of care remain unchanged: cleansing, moisturizing, nutrition and mandatory sun protection.

Skin cleansing

The first rule in the care of any skin is cleansing. It is necessary to cleanse the skin twice a day: in the morning and in the evening. When we wash our face in the morning, we remove the sebum that has accumulated overnight. In the evening, it is necessary to cleanse the skin of make-up and wash off all the impurities that settle on the skin during the day.

Lack of moisture provokes skin aging and the appearance of deep wrinkles. Therefore, after cleansing the skin with micellar water or milk to remove make-up, use a gel or foam with a low Ph level (they do not irritate or dry out the skin). Use peels or scrubs twice a week for deeper cleansing. These can be gels and creams with abrasive particles or deeper acid peels. The main thing is to use SPF protection after using acids, so as not to provoke the appearance of age spots.

Skin moisturizing

The next step, which must also be repeated twice a day, is moisturizing. It helps protect the skin from dehydration and keep it firm and supple. Apply the day cream in the morning immediately after cleansing the skin, and the night cream one hour before bed. In order for the product to be better absorbed and to work most effectively, you can make a light facial massage.

Use thermal water to relieve dryness and tightness during the day. It can be applied not only to clean skin, but also to makeup.It perfectly refreshes and gives the skin a feeling of hydration.

Skin nutrition

With age, the skin retains moisture worse, the process of cell regeneration slows down, the amount of collagen and elastin decreases. Therefore, regular nutrition is especially important after 25-30 years. For intensive skin nutrition, products containing highly concentrated beneficial substances are useful: collagen, hyaluronic acid, peptides. This can be, for example, masks, oils or serums.

Sun protection

Sun protection is not a seasonal necessity, but a rule that must be observed throughout the year.Ultraviolet rays are one of the main culprits for wrinkles. By acting on the skin, they slow down the production of collagen and elastin, which keep the skin firm and youthful. As a result, wrinkles appear, the skin loses its tone.

In addition, the first and most visible sign of photoaging is age spots. To protect against UV radiation, it is necessary to constantly use products with an SPF factor: these can be creams or serums, and even decorative cosmetics. In winter, SPF20 is sufficient, and in summer look for products with a minimum value of 40.

Healthy lifestyle

In addition to anti-aging facial care, a healthy lifestyle is also important for youthful skin.

1. Sleep properly. During a healthy sleep, skin cells are renewed and restored, but even sleeping properly is necessary. Avoid sleeping on your stomach: this position provokes skin stretching, which means the appearance of wrinkles and creases not only on the face, but also on the neck.
2. Drink plenty of water and other liquids. Exceptions to this rule are alcohol, soda and coffee.
3. Quit smoking or keep cigarettes to a minimum. This bad habit not only accelerates skin aging, but also gives it an unpleasant yellowish tint.
4. Switch to a healthy diet. Less spicy, sweet, starchy foods and more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains!

How to keep the skin around the eyes youthful

The skin around the eyes is very thin, delicate and prone to dryness: there are no sebaceous glands, so it is in this area that wrinkles appear first.

• Use special two-phase products to remove eye make-up. Do not rub or stretch the skin: moisten a sponge or cotton pad with the product and apply to the eyelid for 10-15 seconds. Then gently remove the dirt.
• Regularly nourish and tone the skin around the eyes, applying the cream with the lightest possible pounding movements.
• Choose a product that is suitable for your age.
• In hot seasons, use eye creams with SPF and don’t forget about sunglasses.

Products that preserve youthfulness and firmness of the skin of the face

Our diet also affects the preservation of youthfulness of the skin. Remember the saying “we are what we eat”? So, our skin is as healthy and young as the contents of our plate are useful. After all, it is from food that we assimilate the greatest amount of nutrients. Vitamins A, C, E and group B, as well as vegetable fats, sulfur, calcium, zinc, iron and potassium are especially valuable for youthful skin.

To get them, include in your diet:

• Nuts
• Fish and Seafood
• Natural Yogurt
• Liver
• Citrus
• Avocados
• Green Tea

Eggs only the skin of the face, but also the hair and nails.

Overview of products for preserving youthful skin

Age Expert Day Revitalizing Cream

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Moisturizes and smoothes the skin, making it firmer and prevents the appearance of wrinkles. Its lightweight formula is easily absorbed and can be used as a makeup base. Individual line with a unique composition for ages 35+, 45+, 55+, 65+.

Age Expert Night Revitalizing Cream

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Restores the skin, reduces wrinkles and starts the regeneration process at a deep level.Individual line with a unique composition for ages 35+, 45+, 55+, 65+.

Anti-aging complex care-sculptor “Age Expert”

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Against wrinkles on the face, neck and décolleté. It restores firmness to the skin and restores its clear contours, and also reduces the number of wrinkles. For ages 45+ and 55+.

“Age Expert” face mask

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Instantly makes the skin smooth and radiant! The product smoothes wrinkles, protects the skin from free radicals and starts the process of cell regeneration.For ages 45+ and 55+.

Anti-aging cream Revitalift X3 laser against wrinkles for the area around the eyes

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Concentrated hyaluronic acid in the cream effectively fills wrinkles and lifts the skin. A convenient metal applicator additionally massages the skin and removes puffiness under the eyes.

Revitalift Day Anti-Aging Face Cream X3 Laser

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This two-phase remedy fights all signs of aging and consists of two parts: the first corrects wrinkles, and the second gives elasticity to the skin and tightens the contour of the face.The main active ingredient is vitamin C, which helps in collagen production and skin renewal.

Revitalift anti-aging night cream-mask for face X3 Laser

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The unique formula of the cream works in three directions at once: smoothes wrinkles, smoothes skin texture and restores elasticity to it. The product fills the skin with radiance and energy, restoring its beauty and health.

Double Face Serum Revitalift X3 Laser

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Deeply nourishes and transforms the skin thanks to a high concentration of vitamin CG, which is involved in the synthesis of collagen and elastin and has powerful antioxidant properties.The product effectively corrects wrinkles and regenerates the skin day after day, making the face contour clearer.

Revitalift Anti-Aging Day Cream X3 Laser, SPF 20

Protects the skin from the sun’s rays and prevents the appearance of age spots. Corrects wrinkles, firms the skin and effectively evens out its texture.

Gerontologists told how to slow down aging – Rossiyskaya Gazeta

Old age is a disease, which means that it can be “prevented” to a certain extent by postponing the onset and slowing down its development.A group of Russian researchers came to such an unexpected conclusion for many. Having summarized many Russian and foreign scientific works, scientists have identified the most important and simple ways to postpone old age. The Council for Public Health and Demography, together with the League for the Health of the Nation, presented to journalists the results of the work of gerontologists – the book “Prevention of Aging for All”.

“What is aging? These are changes in the human body that occur with age, and they begin long before real old age and illness,” explained one of the authors, associate professor at the Graduate School of Health Care Management at the First Moscow State Medical University.Sechenov Artem Gil. – We can still feel healthy, but changes are already taking place at the biochemical, cellular level. By and large, old age is a gradual loss of the functions of organs and tissues. But this process can be slowed down. “

Scientists have identified several key actions, by performing which, you can postpone the beginning of old age.

1) Diagnostics / monitoring of health status, vaccination

” Knowledge is power, “jokes Artem Gil. “Any screening program aimed at detecting chronic diseases will help to” put things in order “in the body, when the disease has not yet had time to cause significant damage.”So, the simplest thing – blood glucose and cholesterol levels, measuring blood pressure, calculating body mass index clearly characterize the risks of developing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. With age, the range of studies expands: for example, after 50 years, it is worth regularly undergoing colonoscopy. And osteoporosis and the associated severe fractures that are common in older people can be prevented by taking a bone density measurement. And vaccinated on time will help to avoid infections.

2) Taking dietary supplements, vitamins and geroprotective drugs

It turns out that the intake of the “right” means that help to optimize the diet seriously affects the life expectancy. For example, low levels of vitamin D in the body, scientists say, impair bone turnover and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Benfotiamine (a fat-soluble analogue of thiamine – vitamin B1) is necessary for the normal “functioning” of the central nervous system. It is used to prevent atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and other age-related diseases.Other B vitamins (B5, B6, B3) are no less important. The flavonoid quercitin is a powerful antioxidant that prevents heart disease and cognitive impairment. Aging mice on a quercitin “diet” were clearly getting younger: they regained the ability to navigate in space, strengthened their immunity, and increase their lifespan. The plant polyphenol resveratrol helps to keep cells young – it reduces the number of pathological genome mutations that are inevitable with age. Lipoic acid is another protector of our health at the cellular level.Of the microelements, scientists have singled out magnesium – its deficiency accelerates the aging process of cells. Finally, glucosamine is another substance that helps maintain normal cartilage and bone function. At the same time, experts emphasize: most of the nutrients are best obtained from food. But in some cases, you will need to take certain medications. You should not engage in amateur activities, the doctor will help to balance the diet. An overdose of a useful component can cause no less harm to health than its deficiency.

3) Diet

The best diet for preserving youth is Mediterranean. They feed on this type in those regions where the most long-livers are in Sardinia (Italy), Okinawa (Japan), Ikaria (Greece), Nicoya (Costa Rica). The diet is based on vegetables and fruits, nuts, cereals, fish, olive oil. Lean meats like rabbit and chicken are not common. And “red” meat – the musculature of animals – is rarely eaten at all. As well as “fast” carbohydrates – simple sugars. By the way, the Mediterranean diet not only does not prohibit alcohol, but even welcomes it.But not strong (classic – red dry wine) and in moderate doses (1-2 glasses a day).

4) Physical activity

Scientists measure the “degree” of aging by the length of telomeres – the ends of human chromosomes (the older, the shorter). At the same time, in physically active people, telomeres shorten much more slowly compared to those who like to lie on the couch. At the same time, there is no question of overworking in the gym: loads can be moderate and even weak, but always daily.Even 15 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per day significantly improves the condition and reduces mortality in the elderly. Young people, of course, need to move more. But it is desirable to find an activity that gives pleasure. Then the benefits will be maximized.

5) Healthy sleep

This is the factor that many neglect, especially in youth. But night vigils and regular sleep deprivation are definitely harmful. Workers who have to work night shifts have a shorter life expectancy.And the risk of developing cancer is higher. This is due to a disruption in the production of the hormone melatonin, which is responsible for the quality and duration of sleep. With age, by the way, its production decreases, hence the usual early awakenings and insomnia for old people. Normally, the maximum melatonin is produced from 12 to 4 am, so it is so important to fall asleep no later than 11 pm. You need to sleep in an absolutely dark room, then the sleep will be healthy.

6) Quitting bad habits

So much is said about the harm of excess alcohol and smoking now that many no longer perceive these “horror stories”.And yet you will have to pay for the momentary pleasure. Smoking, for example, according to various sources, shortens life by 8-15 years.

“But it’s not enough to know how to move towards health. Many people seem to want to change their behavior, but they don’t succeed,” says another project participant, psychologist Elena Milova. “You need to be very organized to follow all the points of the“ program ”. Most of themselves scold themselves: there is no willpower It is wrong Psychologists have found out that there are only a few factors that seriously affect our behavior.If you know them, you can achieve better results. First, we need to decide what behavior we want to change. For example, give up rolls and sweets. Then we think through the restorative behavior. To refuse immediately and completely is hard. We are looking for a compromise: for example, you can have coffee, but there is no longer a roll for it. We use the feedback factor: it has been proven that if people keep a diary of behavior, this greatly increases the likelihood that the chosen line will be followed. Social motivation and the influence of the environment are important.It is better to find like-minded people who will act with you for the company. But you will have to distance yourself from provocateurs (such are also always found). Well, clear planning will also help, if not quickly, but confidently move towards the goal. Try it, it works. “

If old age is just a disease, can it be cured?

• Britt Ray
• BBC Future

March 25, 2018

Photo Credit, Getty Images

as we learn more about disease, science is finding more ways to cope with it.Will we ever learn to cope with a disease that until now was considered incurable – old age? Some experts answer in the affirmative.

The list of diseases that humans have learned to treat is truly impressive: polio, typhus, measles, tetanus, yellow fever, smallpox, diphtheria, chickenpox – many regions of the planet are almost completely free from these diseases.

Vaccines and powerful medicines help humans fight dangerous and often deadly bacteria and viruses.

However, as far as mankind can remember, people have always been susceptible to a disease that no one of the most talented doctors is able to cope with. Aging cannot be avoided by any of us, and no one has yet managed to cure old age.

As we age, our cells stop working as before, leading to cancer, heart disease, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, etc.

Diseases associated with age kill 100 thousand people every day, and huge amounts of money are spent all over the world to somehow slow down the aging process of our immortal bodies.

Nevertheless, some researchers believe that our view of old age is fundamentally wrong. In their opinion, we must begin to treat the aging of the body in the same way as we treat diseases. Old age, they say, is something that can be avoided, something that can be cured.

We spoke to some of these scientists who are trying to find ways to slow down or even stop aging.

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

Will we ever learn to stop aging?

The hopes of these specialists are based on the latest discoveries, based on which it can be assumed that biological aging is curable.

From a biological point of view, an organism, depending on genetic and environmental factors, can age at different rates. Small glitches accumulate in our DNA, and cells begin to function with errors, which also accumulate, leading to tissue damage.

The degree of such changes occurring in the body results in either what we call healthy old age, or old age burdened by chronic diseases.

Scientists hoping to slow down and even cure people of old age are still on the fringes of the medical scientific landscape.

However, there are already a sufficient number of research centers in the world that have made this task a priority. Experiments on animals have shown that life expectancy can be significantly increased. There was a hope that this is possible with a person.

For example, the well-known diabetes drug metformin has been shown to prolong life in rodents during research.

In the early 1990s, Cynthia Kenyon is currently vice president of research at Calico Labs, a division of Google’s Alphabet, which is trying to apply the latest technology to understand how human biology controls life expectancy.- Approx. translator ), demonstrated by her experiments that roundworms, if they change only one letter in the genetic code, begin to live twice as long (six weeks instead of the usual three).

One of the most famous experts in the world studying the possibility of life extension, British gerontologist Aubrey De Gray told the BBC how such an increase in life expectancy could be possible for humans.

Photo author, Sens Foundation / Wikipedia

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British gerontologist Aubrey de Gray is confident that he can cope with old age

De Gray is chairman and director of science of the SENS Foundation (Strategies for Engineered Negligible Senescence aging by engineering methods “).As he explains, the goal of the foundation is to develop a therapeutic complex for middle-aged and elderly people that will help them return to the physical and mental state of a person who is not even 30.

“Naturally, without erasing memory,” he adds.

Dee Gray says “I want to get rid of what we don’t like about the changes that occur as we age – between the ages of 30 and 70”.

According to Dee Gray, there are seven major biological factors responsible for cellular damage associated with aging and underlying diseases that develop with age.

One of these factors is when cells in tissues stop regenerating quickly enough. Another is when cells start dividing uncontrollably (as in the case of cancer). The third is when cells do not die when they are supposed to (also related to cancer).

Fourth – damage to the DNA of mitochondria, the tiny power plants of our cells. Fifth – the accumulation of decay products inside cells. Sixth – decay products that accumulate outside the cells. And seventh – an increase in the rigidity of the intercellular substance, the extracellular matrix, which is responsible for the ability of tissues to stretch and bend.

Dee Gray and the SENS research team say they have discovered ways in which each of these factors can be overcome – with therapies they have developed.

“The first problem can be overcome with stem cell therapy,” says De Gray.

The body tissue receives fresh, young cells, which replace old ones that die as a result of aging.

In other cases – for example, when cells do not die when they should – more complex solutions are required.

“In principle, we could apply such a targeted effect on genes, after which the body will have ‘suicidal genes’ – those that will produce proteins that simply kill the cell,” explains De Gray.

The problem, however, is to get genes that would create a deadly protein only for those cells that the body no longer needs.

According to Dee Gray, these methods are not enough to completely stop aging, but they can extend life by 30 years.

He envisions a future in which the use of “rejuvenating technologies” will be prescribed to older people to restore their cells to the ability to function as in youth.

For example, a 60-year-old person can be returned to the biological age of 30 years. However, the cells of this person will still return to 60 years of age in 30 years.

But by then, De Gray hopes, the therapy can be repeated. As a result of this approach, the cells of this person will not reach the state of a 60-year-old organism until the person is 150 years old.

However, such promises should be treated with great caution. There is no evidence, confirmed by experiments, that our body will accept such a “software update” positively and without complications.

As with computers, too many updates can cause the entire system to freeze.

But Dee Gray believes that such a way of thinking (which he calls hypnosis of the inevitability of aging) only hinders the development of technology.

The problem, he says, is that we humans traditionally perceive aging as inevitable.And therefore, all attempts to prevent old age, to defeat it are often perceived as unscientific, as quackery.

De Gray is not the only one who believes that diseases associated with aging can be defeated. George Church, a geneticist at Harvard, considers the approach of some of his colleagues, who say that it is impossible to cure many of these diseases, as being too difficult, to be wrong.

“If you learn to manage ecology and genetics, the result will be people living their lives healthy and young, and this life will be much longer than now,” he says.

Photo author, Getty Images

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Blood transfusions from young donors can slow aging

One way to prolong a healthy life is known as “vampire therapy”. Patients suffering from senile dementia receive blood transfusions from donors between the ages of 18 and 30.

Recent studies have shown that the condition of older people improves as a result. A patient with early Alzheimer’s has regained the ability to dress and wash independently, as well as to perform simple household chores.

These studies are still ongoing, but the American startup Ambrosia is already offering elderly patients blood transfusions from donors aged 16 to 25 years. The cost of one such procedure is 8 thousand dollars.

Representatives of the company say that transfusions can “wake up” sleeping cells of an elderly body, improve the condition of a patient with early-onset Alzheimer’s, and even make the hair of a 60-year-old less gray.

Ambrosia research report, however, has yet to be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.Skeptics are already criticizing him for not considering the placebo effect.

However, there are a number of animal studies that suggest that such therapies may well have a biological rationale.

In 2013, experiments by scientists at the Harvard Institute for Stem Cell Research demonstrated that muscle strength in mice can be increased using the GDF11 component found in the blood of a young individual, but this result has not yet been reproduced.

In contrast to laboratory approaches, some researchers argue that life expectancy can be increased simply by consuming fewer calories.

How about curing … death? As you know, some resort to cryogenic freezing of a newly deceased body – in the hope that one day science will learn to resurrect the dead. It is clear that today none of the clients of companies offering freezing services have yet returned to life.

The famous American inventor and futurist Ray Kurzweil proposes another version of immortality, predicting the emergence of a “posthuman”: “We will have non-biological bodies.We will be able to create bodies with the help of nanotechnology, we will be able to create virtual bodies and virtual reality that will be completely realistic due to the fact that virtual bodies will be as detailed and convincing as real ones. ”

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What will be the“ posthuman ”? And what kind of world will he create around him?

Such ideas are very easy to consider insane, refer them to (not) science fiction.But no matter how humanity comes to the ability to prolong life (or even to the immortality of an individual), for society it is can turn into a big problem.

The increase in life can lead to serious overpopulation of our planet. De Gray says he is often asked whether life extension technology will become a tool in the hands of the rich and tyrant rulers. Or a too long life can simply bore the people who are happy with it …

De Gray believes that other technologies will come to the rescue in all these cases, with the help of which artificial products (for example, meat) will be created, humanity will learn to use solar energy much more efficiently and all other natural reserves, which will allow more people to live long and safely on our small planet.

However, the weakness of De Gray’s arguments is that he relies on technological breakthroughs in his forecasts, the future effectiveness of which we only guess – whether they will actually help, we do not know.

True, it should be remembered that if we were always guided by similar fears and because of this blocked the research of scientists who invented vaccinations and antibiotics, then the average life expectancy of a modern person would not exceed 40 years.

Advances in medicine over the past two centuries have taught us that we are able to defeat diseases that threaten humanity.