Wrinkles, fine lines, saggy-looking skin, dark spots, and a dull complexion—these are all things that come with age, and many of us are trying to turn back the clock to a time when our skin was clear and smooth.
The world of anti-aging can be confusing and overwhelming, so where should you start? Let’s take a look at my tips for anti-aging so that you can look and feel beautiful in your skin, no matter your age.
Gentle Exfoliation
A gentle exfoliating routine removes dead skin cells and increases blood flow, aiding in the natural regeneration process and encouraging brighter, firmer skin.
Exfoliation should be done every other day rather than every day. This ensures you aren’t being too hard on your skin or scraping away good skin cells. Using something gentle like a natural bamboo scrub or a scrub made of ground coffee, sugar, or salts, are all great natural ways to exfoliate.
Reduce Time in the Sun
I suggest that you get your sunlight in short bursts and wear sunscreen. This practice reduces the risk of skin cancer as well as skin damage, which results in premature aging. I recommend opting for a mineral-based sunscreen that you can apply frequently. You might also find a foundation that has built-in SPF. Wear it regularly—even in the winter.
Increase Collagen Production with Vitamin A
Vitamin A increases collagen production in the skin, minimising fine lines and wrinkles. It also speeds up the rate at which new skin cells grow back, meaning you can see a reduction in dark spots and the clogging of pores. Always start with a small amount of any product containing vitamin A and apply it every 48 hours. After a week or so, if your skin hasn’t reacted negatively (for some people it can), try applying it every night and see how it goes. The last thing you want on your journey to anti-aging is irritated skin.
MYTH: You shouldn’t apply vitamin A in the summer. This is false. The sun does break down vitamin A, which can increase sun damage; however, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply it at all. Instead, apply it at night to gain the benefits while you’re sleeping. This also means you’ll need to apply SPF the next day if going out in the sun, for extra protection (see tip 2).
Increase Collagen Production with Vitamin C Too!
Similar to vitamin A, vitamin C increases collagen production. Additionally, vitamin C reduces hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production, thereby brightening the skin. This makes it especially helpful to those who experience dark spots.
Vitamin C tends to be a bit more unstable, so it’s best to apply it to the skin first, then layer the more stable products, like vitamin A, on top.
Use a Clean Moisturiser
Using a moisturiser that contains clean ingredients and is free of common allergens can help to hydrate the skin, making it look plumper and reducing wrinkles.
A Spotlight on Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is a fantastic natural product to use on your skin for anti-aging. It’s high in vitamins A, C and E, and it’s also a great natural moisturiser—the ultimate all-in-one solution!
Age gracefully, not early.
