1. INVEST IN A GOOD SUNSCREEN
Sun exposure causes 90% of premature skin aging, which usually shows up first as dullness, dryness and discolouration. Look for a facial sunscreen that protects you from both UVA and UVB damage and does not clog pores. Ultraviolet rays can penetrate clouds and glass, so wear sunscreen even when it’s a cloudy day or when you’re indoors.
2. EXFOLIATE
Smooth skin reflects light better, for that natural youthful glow. However, cell turnover slows down after our 30s, and the dead skin cells diffuse the light so skin looks dull. Tonight, exfoliate with a gentle face scrub. You can use one with microbeads, or one with a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid. For best results, do this twice a week.
3. SNACK ON NUTS
Brazil nuts are a good source of selenium which make skin more elastic. Walnuts and macadamias have omega-3 fatty acids that help the skin repair itself and lowers inflammation (and risk of breakouts. Just a handful of these nuts a day can help keep wrinkles and dullness at bay!
4. START USING RETINOIDS
Firm skin reflects light better. Retinoids are still considered the top-grade anti-aging ingredient, because of how it’s clinically proven to stimulate collagen production. You can get over-the-counter retinoids, or speak to your dermatologist about a prescription retinoid cream.
5. LOAD UP ON VITAMIN C
When topically applied, Vitamin C can brighten the skin and help fade sunspots. Look for a serum that contains this powerful antioxidant, and make sure you also get loads of vitamin C into your diet. Citrus fruits like oranges are a wonderful source!
6. DRINK LOTS OF WATER
Dehydrated skin looks dull and lifelines. Limit your caffeine and alcohol, which are diuretics. You should also stay away from soda and sweet juices: sugary drinks (and food) break down collagen and elastin, which contribute to your dull complexion.
Your best drink is water. Fill a large water bottle so you can eyeball how much you’re drinking in one day. You can add lemon slices, mint, or a few squeezes of orange to give it a slight taste.
7. CUT DOWN ON HIGH-GLUCOSE FOOD
This includes both sweet desserts and pastas, rice, and white breads. Recent research points to a possible connection between high glycemic index with both acne and early wrinkles. Fill your plate with fruits and vegetables and lean sources of protein, and you won’t even miss that half cup of rice.
8. TURN OFF THE WATER HEATER
Skip the long, steamy shower and go for a quick, cool bath instead. Hot water dries the skin and washes off the skin’s protective oils. After your bath, pat off excess water from your face and body and apply moisturizer and lotion.
9. TREAT YOURSELF TO A FACIAL MASK
A mask is packed with skin-soothing ingredients, and can help give your skin a much-needed boost in the middle of the week. Cleanse your face, dry, and then leave the mask on as instructed in the packaging (some are meant to be removed after 15 minutes, while others can be left overnight).
10. GET 8 HOURS OF SLEEP
During sleep, your skin heals itself and rebalances its hydration levels to process and remove excess moisture. If you’re not getting the rest you need, your skin starts to look puffy, and dryness and wrinkles will look more obvious.
