You may think the only way to stave off wrinkles is to invest in some expensive beauty products, but that’s definitely not the case. What’s really required is a shift in your routine. Here are 20 things to try.
01. Wear sunscreen
Every dermatologist agrees that this is the single most important anti-aging secret around. Simply slather on some SPF after your moisturizer to protect your skin from age spots and wrinkles.
02. Stick to self-tanner
Tanning can not only cause cancer, it can dry out and damage the top layer of your skin, making it look and feel haggard. To get your glow on naturally, reach for self-tanner or bronzer.
03. Drink more water
Our skin requires water to stay plump and to detoxify it of the chemicals and free radicals that cause wrinkles and blemishes. Strive to drink about eight glasses of water every day… the more H2O the better!
04. Butt out
Smoking causes the number of free radicals in the body to spike—harmful byproducts of bodily processes that literally sap the life out of your skin. Ditch the cigarettes to retain your epidermis’ all-natural glow.
05. Stick to a regular workout routine
Exercise increases the rate at which blood flows through the body, improving the health of everything from your heart and lungs to your skin. Bonus: each workout will leave you with a nice, rosy glow.
06. Be consistent with your skincare regimen
Whether you’re striving to lose weight or run a 5K, consistency is key to seeing big results—and the same can be said for skincare. Make sure you apply products in a consistent and regular manner; experts believe it can take at least a month to see visible dermal changes.
07. Avoid products that tingle or burn
Either sensation is a sign the product is too strong for your skin, which could lead to damage like burns. Ditch any product that stings immediately.
08. Remove makeup before you go to bed
Think about what leaving all that makeup on your face will do to your pores? Not washing your face is just asking for acne and blackheads to nestle into your chin and cheeks.
09. Massage your face
Facial massages—when done properly—can increase blood flow to those areas of the face that need a little revitalizing. (Remember, as blood is circulated it brings with it oxygen which can revitalize skin cells.) Experts suggest performing a massage once a day to achieve maximum results.
10. Avoid scrubbing your skin
Exfoliating the skin is helpful when done gently and every so often, but can have the opposite effect when done aggressively or excessively. Same goes for drying your skin with a towel. Dermatologists suggest you pat versus scrub your face dry to avoid damage.
11. Wear sunglasses
Sunglasses are essential for protecting the sensitive skin under the eyes; the area is known to show signs of aging most acutely. Wearing shades will also stave off excess squinting which is known to cause wrinkles.
12. Skip dieting and eat a healthy diet
The skin is a living, breathing organism, meaning it needs nutrition like every other part of the body. It will show signs of malnutrition (in the form of dullness) if you don’t eat a balanced and vitamin-rich diet.
13. Use retinoids
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that has long been considered the holy grail of skincare products. Not only does it tighten pores, it can boost collagen production, and diminish acne. (Note: If you’re breastfeeding or pregnant, chat with your doctor before using these products regularly. Some studies have shown excess vitamin A can harm a baby/fetus.)
14. Sleep on your back
Think about all the pressure you’re putting on your cheeks when you sleep on your face. That pressure can damage skin cells, and bunched up pillowcases can cause wrinkles. If you want to preserve a youthful glow, get used to sleeping on your back.
15. Stick to silk pillowcases
Did you know that silk pillowcases are less likely to wrinkle or cause skin friction, which means they’re better for the skin? It’s fact!
16. Use different products for each season
Just like you’d change your wardrobe at the beginning of a season, you should look to change your skincare regimen. For the warmer months, you’ll want to use lighter products that won’t clog pores; colder months call for moisturizing and brightening.
17. Drink green tea
This beverage is full of amazingly good antioxidants that detoxify and renew the body’s cells—that includes those that make up the skin. Sip a couple of cups every day to purify!
18. Skip too many fillers
Products like Botox can be helpful in reducing lines and wrinkles, but only when used in moderation. When done in excess, they can actually age the skin and make it look plastic instead of youthful and elastic.
19. Get a skin analysis
If you’re not sure how to stave off the aging of your skin, chat with a professional. He or she can perform a skin analysis that will let you know where your problem areas are and how you can repair damage done.