Despite the fact that skin is the body’s largest organ, we rarely nourish it with the care and attention it deserves. Each day, our skin protects us from a barrage of elements that includes everything from hot water in the shower to the sun’s harmful UV rays. As a result, skin is one of the first places telltale signs of ageing like wrinkles and fine lines start to show. However, there are a number of ways to nourish your skin and retain your youthful glow for a little longer.
Skin is a good indicator of overall physical health, and while a regular beauty regime can help skin feel supple and soft, it should also be nourished from the inside out.
Here comes the sun
The harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays found in sunlight are the leading cause of ageing, as well as being the primary cause of skin cancer. As such, it is important to protect your skin from the sun at any age. Always use a moisturiser that contains a SPF of 15 or higher to guard against the sun on a daily basis. Also, keep an eye on any unusual moles, particularly if your family has a history of skin cancer.
No smoking
Collagen is a fibrous protein that helps maintain skin’s firmness. The production of collagen naturally decreases as we get older, leading to fine lines and wrinkles. There is strong evidence to suggest that smoking reduces skin’s elasticity by breaking down collagen and decreasing its production – so get rid of your cigarettes!
You are what you eat
Eating smart can have a huge impact on reducing the appearance of ageing skin. Getting your fair share of good fats, including omega-3s and monosaturated fat, helps your skin cells to regenerate and keep your complexion smooth and soft. Fill your diet with fish (salmon, mackerel and herring), avocados and olives to pack in the good fats your skin needs.
Foods high in anti-oxidants can help protect the skin from free-radical damage that leads to rough texture, wrinkles and pigmentation. Berries, broccoli and leafy greens (kale, spinach) are a great source of anti-oxidants to keep your skin healthy and glowing.
Drink up
To avoid dehydrated skin that looks wrinkled and rough, make sure you drink plenty of water. Health experts recommend drinking eight glasses of water per day to keep skin looking young and supple. Also, remember that drinking alcohol dehydrates your skin and your body, so consider alternating alcoholic drinks with water to keep skin fresh.
Sleeping beauty
There is a reason why it’s called ‘beauty sleep’. Sleepless nights lead to unsightly dark circles under the eyes, which make you look older and tired. A good night’s sleep can also reduce stress that contributes to breakouts and wrinkles.
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