As your 40s start looming closer, you may start noticing fine lines, age spots, wrinkles and other skin imperfections developing. While many people think this is simply part of the aging process, there are steps that can be taken to reduce their appearance – or even prevent them from appearing in the first place.
Sun Protection is Crucial
Before even attempting anything else to protect your skin, you must do everything possible to protect it from unnecessary sun exposure. To ensure that your skin is protected from exposure to harmful UV rays, dermatologists recommend taking these steps:
- Cover up – Whenever possible, wear a wide-brimmed sun hat, long sleeves and long pants. If desired, gloves can be worn to ensure that the backs of the hands are protected against the formation of age spots. Good quality sunglasses will go a long way in helping to prevent wrinkles forming around your eyes as well
- Head for a shady spot – keep out of direct sunlight between 10 am and 2 pm each day because this is when UV exposure rates are at their highest
- Apply sunscreen before going outside – sunscreen should be applied to all areas of the body that won’t be covered by clothing, and this should be done approximately 30 minutes before heading outside. Use a product that is water resistant and that contains an SPF rating of 30 or higher
Apply Moisturizer Daily
As we get older, our skin becomes drier – making it more susceptible to forming wrinkles. A good moisturizer will help prevent this by trapping water in the skin to provide a more youthful appearance. It’s recommended to use a dedicated facial moisturizer product that has specifically formulated for your skin type.
Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Although having the odd glass of wine with a friend is perfectly OK, but consuming more than a few units per week will wreak havoc on your skin by dehydrating it and causing blood vessels to dilate unnecessarily. Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to the development of rosacea in some people, which causes severe redness and tiny pimples to form all over the face.
Wash your Face Twice Daily
The way you wash your face each day directly affects its appearance. As such, it’s recommended that warm water be used in conjunction with a mild cleanser instead of regular soap. Avoid scrubbing your skin clean, as this can cause damage as well.
Get Enough Rest
Sleep provides your skin with the opportunity to refresh and renew itself, so it’s essential that you get a minimum of seven hours’ shuteye each night.
Another way to prevent the premature development of fine lines and wrinkles is to schedule regular facial treatments at a spa or beauty salon. Our beauticians and spa experts are available and ready to assist you with any questions you may have regarding caring for your skin as you grow older. Contact us today for further information.
