Getting that youthful, healthy glow doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Below are 6 simple ways to maintain gorgeous skin, protect it from damage, and possibly even reverse damage already done.
Stay Out of the Sun
The sun speeds up the aging process in the skin, damaging the elastin our skin needs to remain flexible. After all those hours in the sun, we end up with sagging skin, age spots, and wrinkles. Avoid the sun during it’s highest intensity (10am-4pm), wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher, and wear protective clothing.
Don’t Smoke
Besides wreaking havoc on your lungs, smoking causes the skin to lose collagen. Collagen is the protein responsible for keeping the skin firm and supple. It also constricts blood vessels in the skin which depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients it needs to stay elastic. Repetitive actions of smoking, such as pursing the lips, also leads to fine wrinkles around the mouth.
Eat Healthy
Blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries are high in the antioxidants needed to prevent or delay damage to skin cells. Turkey, tuna, and brazil nuts contain the mineral selenium which is vital to healthy skin cells. Salmon, walnuts, and flax seed give the skin essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids are important for healthy cell membranes that act as a passageway for nutrients to get in and waste to get out. Products such as Xango Ageless (found at xalo.xango.com), containing Lychee Prophenol from the lychee fruit, also aid in healthy skin appearance.
Don’t Skimp on the Beauty Sleep
Not getting enough rest makes you look worn out and old, not to mention the hideous dark bags under your eyes. Keep a regular sleep routine, avoid caffeine and heavy meals before bedtime, and keep your bedroom quiet, dark, and cool.
Exercise
Regular exercise promotes healthy circulation that keeps your skin healthy and glowing. When you move around, you increase blood flow. Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to cells all over the body, including the skin.
Cleanse and Moisturize
Gently wash your face morning and night to remove dirt and bacteria. Moisturize to protect the skin from the drying effects of weather and pollution and to help maintain the skin’s natural moisture levels.
Follow those 6 easy steps and say goodbye to dry, dull, lifeless skin and hello to a radiant, youthful appearance. You’ll look better, feel better, and I guarantee everyone will notice.