There are so many products designed to fight the signs of aging, and it can be overwhelming. Although certain products, such as a natural face brightener, helps reduce the appearance of aging, not every answer is found in a bottle. There are natural, and inexpensive, ways to slow down the effects of aging and keep your skin looking bright and healthy.
Hydration is Key
One of the biggest reasons your skin looks unhealthy is that it is dehydrated. The skin has a layer that helps to lock in moisture. Unfortunately, a variety of things, such as sun exposure, pollution, and processed foods, can damage this moisture barrier, exposing the sensitive skin layers to dry air. The result is dehydration, which can show up as dry, patchy, and irritated skin.
It is important to hydrate from both inside and outside. Drinking adequate amounts of water is imperative, and if you live in a hot, humid environment or you exercise intensely, you need even more H2O. You should also limit alcohol and coffee, as these lead to excess fluid loss.
It is also important to use hydrating products on your skin. These include:
- Water-based, gentle cleansers
- Hydrating serum
- Night cream
- Moisturizing face mask
Increasing hydration levels of the skin does not take long, and the results are noticeable.
Get Your Beauty Sleep
Another way to increase hydration of the skin is to get enough sleep, which is about seven to nine hours every night. Getting shut eye allows the body to regenerate new skin cells, and it prevents the loss of elasticity.
Some people have difficulty falling or staying asleep. Instead of reaching for sleeping pills, which have unwanted side effects, try a sleep strip, which is made with natural ingredients that promote sleep.
Use Sun Protection
Spending too much time in the sun is a sure way to age quickly. Although getting some sun is a great way to boost your vitamin D levels, you should protect your skin most of the time you are outside. Natural sunscreens, protective clothing, and large hats are good ways to slow down aging caused by the sun.
Exercise
Exercise is a good way to slow down aging in general, but it is also beneficial for the skin. Regular exercise increases blood flow, which effectively delivers nutrients to the skin while releasing harmful toxins. The boost in collagen helps reduce sagginess, and exercise also reduces the dangerous effects of free radicals.
Eat a Balanced Diet
What you put in your body greatly affects the health of your skin. Processed and fried foods can increase oil secretion, which leads to acne and breakouts. Focusing on hydrating foods, however, helps keep the skin moisturized. Some of the foods that are great for skin health include:
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Bell peppers
- Avocados
- Nuts
- Fatty fish
- Cucumber
Focus on eating a wide variety of nutrients. Foods to limit or avoid include salty foods, sugary drinks and foods, and refined carbohydrates.
Although it is impossible to completely stop the aging process, there are a variety of things you can do to slow it down.