"The groundwork of all happiness is health." - Leigh Hunt

8 Tips to Protect and Protect Aging Skin

Moisturizers aren't the one solution for more supple skin.

One of the primary places we begin to notice the passing years is our skin. As we age, the skin becomes dry, thin and loses its elasticity. The skincare regimen you utilized in your 20s or 30s may not produce the identical results today.

Here are eight effective strategies to assist your skin look its best.

1. Moisturize your skin. Premature sun exposure ages the skin and contributes to effective lines and wrinkles. One of the most effective skin protection products you’ll be able to buy is a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection. When you go outside, add one other layer of protection by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

2. Keep showers (and baths) short. A fast, five-minute shower will hydrate your skin. Staying there for greater than 10 minutes will begin to dehydrate.

3. Reduce the temperature. Hot water strips your skin of its natural oils. Keep the water temperature comfortably warm, but not hot.

4. Moisturize. As soon as you get out of the bathtub or shower, apply a layer of moisturizer to your body to seal moisture into your skin. A thicker ointment or cream could also be more comfortable and fewer irritating to dry, sensitive skin. Look for ingredients like dimethicone, glycerin, mineral oil, or hyaluronic acid, which keep skin hydrated. Don't forget your face either. Use a facial moisturizer designed on your skin type — dry, oily or combination.

5. Keep it light. Stick with a delicate cleanser that's freed from strong fragrances and alcohol, which may dry out skin. Beware of anti-aging products with ingredients like retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids, which may increase irritation.

6. Humidify. In cold weather, activate a humidifier so as to add moisture to the air in your private home.

7. Wear gloves. Your hands can also feel dry, especially in winter. Gloves protect your skin from harsh weather.

8. Do not smoke. Besides causing cancer and plenty of other diseases, smoking reduces blood flow and causes skin to wrinkle prematurely, giving it a leathery appearance.