They’re inevitable and there's nothing we can do about it. Right? Or do you buy into all those advertisements on television and in the glitzy women's magazines that some cream or other will get rid of them? For most of us, we know they are a part of the aging process, and we’re willing to live with them although it distresses us when some clerk asks whether we want the senior citizen discount before our time. What do the dermatologists say? Well, actually, a little of both. Yes, they are inevitable, and it's better to see them as badges of honor than as liabilities. On the other hand, they say there are things we can do to reduce the number we get and the age at which they begin to show.
Sleeping Position
The American Academy of Dermatology reports that the positions we take when we sleep does play a role in the wrinkles that etch themselves on our skin and don't disappear. The research indicates that those who sleep on their sides with their faces resting on pillows tend to get wrinkles on their cheeks and chins. Those who sleep face down tend to get wrinkles on the forehead that become permanent. The best position: sleep on your back, says the AAD. So retraining yourself to sleep in a different position might be a good place to start if you want to avoid wrinkles.
Change Your Diet
Another requirement for healthy skin is a generous daily consumption of essential Omega-3 fatty acids, according to the researchers. A dermatologist at Yale says that “essential fatty acids nourish skin and keep it plump and youthful, helping to reduce wrinkles.” There are many ways to get this, but cold water fish is the best source. Some cold water fish: salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies, and sardines. Another good source of Omega 3 is flax and its oil. Some other botanical sources: Chia, Kiwifruit, Lingonberry, Purslane, Black Raspberry, Butternuts, Walnuts, Pecans, and Hazelnuts. A raw-foods diet will be naturally high in antioxidants.
Take Care of Your Eyes
The worst thing you can do to cause wrinkles around your eyes is to squint. This makes the muscles work overtime, which will form a groove below the skin's surface, which will eventually become a wrinkle. If you need reading glasses, for goodness sake, get a pair and wear them. Wear sunglasses. It's in the sun where most of us squint the most. Make certain the glasses you choose will in fact protect from ultraviolet rays. Get a classy-looking pair and see them as a cosmetic feature!
Be Particular about Your Caffeine
The dermatologists recommend that cocoa is the best choice for caffeinated drinks. In a 2006 study, researchers found that because of two flavonolds, epicatchin and catechin, that are in cocoa, drinking it will protect the skin from sun damage. A bonus: it also improves the circulation of blood to the skin cells. In addition, it works as a hydrating agent and make the skin feel smoother and look better.
Go Easy on the Washing
We tend to overdo washing our faces, according to dermatologists at the University of Maryland Medical Center. Besides, tap water is not good for your skin. It strips off natural oils and moisture, both substances that protect against wrinkles. What you do when you wash too often is to eliminate the natural protection your body provides. Either use a soap that contains moisturizers that will protect the skin or use a facial cleanser instead.
Increase Collagen with Vitamin C
Several studies, including one at Tulane University, report that collagen production can be increased by applying vitamin C topically. Besides, it will also protect against damage from ultraviolet rays, will correct problems with pigment, and even improve skin conditions that cause inflammation. The researchers war that the vitamin C should be of the L-ascorbid acid type if it's to be effective in rebuilding collagen. Many very good raw-foods choices can boost your intake of Vitamin C.
Get Serious about Taking Care of Your Skin
At the risk of boring you, I'm including something you already know. Pay attention to the basics: 1) Don't smoke. 2) Use a natural, organic moisturizer. 3) Avoid the sun. 4) Use a natural, organic sunscreen. You've heard them before, so be sure to practice them if you’re serious about avoiding wrinkles.
Drink Plenty of Pure Water
Water is essential to all living cells, and that includes your skin. Water makes up 60 percent of your body weight. It flushes out the toxins that your body doesn't want in it and does not need. Some of those toxins settle in your skin and rob it of its natural luster. Try increasing how much water you drink for a week and then feel your skin with your fingers. It's a difference you can feel and others can see.
By TTS Cofounder Botanical Chef Omid Jaffari
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