By Van Le | Skin care has come a long way in recent years, and the numbers say it all. Current estimates assert the skincare industry generates over $2 billion annually. That’s not to say our mothers and grandmothers never took care of their complexion. Many of the tips our mothers taught us still ring true today — in fact, some of the most effective remedies for healthy skin have been passed down from generation to generation. The following are easy, no-cost techniques to prevent premature skin aging.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking causes so much damage to the skin that the term “smokers’ face” was coined to describe the shallow lines and wrinkles caused by cigarettes. Even more shocking, a study published in the British Medical Journal featured a doctor who could distinguish a non-smoker from someone who has been smoking for ten years or more based on their facial features alone. A single cigarette contains thousands of toxins that seep into the bloodstream and affect the appearance of skin. In addition, scientists have calculated that every cigarette takes ten minutes off your life.
Wear Sunglasses
Long before they became fashion statements, sunglasses served a humble purpose: to protect the eyes from the sun. Skin near the eyes is extremely delicate, and since we can’t apply sunscreen to these areas, we need the UV protection provided by sunglasses. Not wearing sunglasses can also cause you to squint, which can lead to wrinkles over time.
Get Adequate Sleep
While we sleep, our body generates new skin cells, repairs damaged ones and strengthens collagen. Doctors recommend seven to eight hours of sleep each night for maximum performance during the day. In addition to under-eye bags – the tell-all sign that you’ve been up all night – lack of sleep can cause skin to appear dull, puffy and wrinkled.
Sleep on your back
In a perfect world, we would get our beauty sleep every night. However, in today’s fast-paced world, eight hours of sleep each night, every night is not always possible, therefore, it’s important to make the best of the time we do have to rest. We are up and about at least 12 hours a day, and gravity can take its toll. Sleeping on your back instead of stomach promotes circulation, and reduces wrinkles since your face is not buried in a pillow.
Limit Your Stress Level
Stress is an inevitable part of life, but not all stress is bad. There are two kinds of stress: eustress and distress. Eustress keeps us energized about life and stems from exciting events such as starting a new job, getting married or simply getting on a roller coaster ride. Unfortunately, most of us are more familiar with distress (negative stress) which can weaken our immune system and cause hormonal changes that result in pimple breakouts. Participating in stress-reducing activities such as exercise, spending time in nature and yoga is key in balancing eustress and distress.
Doing your best to implement these tips to prevent skin aging and overall health will keep you looking your best for years to come.
Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.
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