7 great ways to maintain youthful skin

Avoid exposure to too much direct sunlight

It is estimated that 90% of skin ageing is due to the damaging effect of UV radiation. Stay out of the sun if not wearing sunscreen as much as possible. You should avoid direct sunlight between 10am and 4pm, when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest. Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or more), apply it at least 30 minutes before going out. Reapply as often as is necessary, around every two hours.

Drink lots of water

Drinking lots of water helps prevent dehydration of the skin and promotes its elasticity. Besides, it is useful for the overall health of the body in many ways. Flushing out the waste products from the body becomes easier with the intake of more water. In addition, nutrients and vitamins are more easily absorbed.

Exercise regularly

Exercising is important for the overall health and for the health of the skin. Regular physical exercise improves blood circulation in the skin and its oxygenation, calming the nerves and promoting a deeper, more revitalising sleep.

Rest and relax

If you want to help your skin to regenerate for better health, not only physical activity but also adequate rest is essential. An average person needs at least six hours of sound sleep for good health. If your have skin problems such as acne, psoriasis or eczema, you may be experiencing increased irritation and flare-ups due to insufficient rest.

Eat foods rich in antioxidants

To counter the harmful effect of free radicals on the skin, you have to eat foods like whole grains, tomatoes, grapes, citrus fruits, vegetables, fish oils and so on. These foods contain large amount of antioxidants like beta- carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, lycopene, proanthocyanidins and selenium. To supply the body with the necessary amount and variety of antioxidants, the US national Research Council recommends the consumption of at least five daily servings of fruits and vegetables.

Topical help

Although topical applications alone would not help to reverse all damages or all signs of ageing, they can definitely help to restore moisture and improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Stop smoking

If you smoke, quit smoking. Free radicals from cigarette smoke can break down the skin’s collagen tissues which are responsible to maintain the skin texture and elasticity. In addition, the oxygen depletion that comes with smoking damages the microcirculation of skin.