My anti-aging series continues today! I’ve got 3 more tips to share with you. Similar to last week’s anti-aging tips, these tips can be implemented today. Full disclosure, these tips may require more commitment and perhaps a little sacrifice (especially the third one). But I believe it is worth it, especially if your goal is to slow down the aging process. So let’s get started! The anti-aging series continues with my next 3 anti-aging tips.
#4: Use a Sunscreen on the Daily
We’ve heard it time and time again. UVA and UVB rays are extremely damaging to the skin so protection (by using a sunscreen) is paramount. But protection is not the only benefit you’ll get by using sunscreen. Sunscreen helps to reduce wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Make sure to always use a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher, and use it daily. Look for a sunscreen without the ingredient oxybenzone, which has been linked to irritation, sensitization, allergies, and possible hormone disruption. Also, look for a mineral sunscreen instead of a chemical sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens are safer options because they utilize a mineral filter to bounce/reflect the sun’s rays away. Here’s my favorite!
#5 Get Sleep
Good quality sleep is critical to slowing the aging process. When you don’t get enough sleep, it can lead to high blood pressure, depression, weight gain, diabetes, mood disturbances, and increase your risk for Alzheimer’s disease and certain kinds of cancer. Lack of sleep also stresses the skin which can lead to breakouts. This happens because cortisol levels don’t have a chance to decrease during sleep, and the skin can’t regenerate and protect itself. And, when cortisol levels remain high, collagen breaks down. Collagen helps skin look youthful. Try to avoid sleep deprivation by creating a bedtime, and sticking to it. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep per night!
#6 Limit Coffee and Alcohol
Eeek!!! This is the one that may require some commitment. But, it is true. Coffee can cause wrinkles because caffeine dehydrates skin. Try to counter the dehydration by drinking plenty of water. Caffeine can slow collagen production too. Collagen is a protein that is getting a lot of attention these days. Experts consider collagen to be a building block for the skin and it helps skin look youthful and vibrant. Regarding alcohol, it dehydrates skin as well. Not only can alcohol contribute to wrinkles, but it leads to inflammation such as redness and puffiness. All of this just adds years to your face. All I can say is do what you can to limit your coffee and alcohol consumption.
As I mentioned at the beginning, these tips are going to require a little more commitment and sacrifice than those from last week (especially #5 and #6). But if you are committed to slowing down the aging process, don’t be overwhelmed by the sacrifice part. See what you can adjust in your lifestyle so that you can make small incremental changes. Those small changes can make a big difference in your life, so I encourage you to give it a shot!
Have a good one!
Mrs. Traylor is a Fitness Instructor, NASM Certified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach, AFPA Certified Prenatal and Postnatal Fitness Specialist, wife, and momma who provides actionable advice for positive lifestyle changes with fitness, nutrition, and wellness. Read about Wendy’s inspiring entrepreneurial journey, and subscribe to Wendy’s newsletter here!