Stanton Spa

AGE IS JUST A NUMBER BUT AGING CAN BE A PROBLEM

Technology is constantly improving and many countries continue to see progress despite the present economic downturn that has happened these past few years. But progress brings more responsibility to many people, and more responsibility brings stress and stress speeds up mankind’s aging process.

Everyone ages. Whoever you are, whatever you do, man, woman, rich or poor. Everybody will grow old. In fact, many people are so conscious of their mortality that, according to reports, Americans spend approximately $ 1.6 billion on anti-aging skin care products each year.

Nobody can really stop aging, not even your doctor. Age is a natural part of everyone’s life but signs of aging are sometimes more obvious on some people.

Factors that bring on premature aging:

1. Heredity is a big factor as to why some people look like they age faster than others. Premature aging is just part of their physical make-up.

2. Research shows that too much exposure to sunlight is the number one cause of aging. Ultraviolet rays break down collagen and elastin fibers in your skin, thereby causing your skin to sag and wrinkle.

3. If you don’t drink at least 8 full glasses of water a day, chances are you will age faster. Lack of water in the body causes dehydration and if your skin is not nourished with enough water, signs of aging will become more apparent.

4. Smokers tend to look older than non-smokers. Smoking causes the skin around the lips to become pinched thus, bringing on deep wrinkles.

There are ways to stop premature aging:

1. Protect yourself from the sun. If you cannot avoid staying out of the sun, maybe because of the nature of your work, always put sunscreen on your skin. Reapply often if you are outdoors for long periods of time. (Caution: For those who love sun tanning, a tanning bed can do the same damage to your skin).

2. Lose the excess weight and keep yourself active by doing regular exercises. But make sure you also have enough rest and sleep.

3. Cut down on sugar. Studies show that excessive intake of sugar can cause aging.

4. Eat food rich in Omega 3. Omega 3 helps keep your skin supple and firm.

5. Eat low glycemic carbohydrates such as whole grain cereals, oats and barley; and food rich in protein.

6. Drink at least 8 full glasses of water every single day. Avoid anything with caffeine and all alcoholic beverages as these may cause inflammation and irritation to your skin.

7. In addition to a healthy diet, there are a variety of anti-aging supplements you can buy, that can aid in the prevention of premature aging.

8. By the time you are in your mid-twenties, you need to have a daily skin care routine of cleansing, toning and moisturizing. Do this twice a day and always remember to remove your make-up before going to bed.

9. In your forties or fifties, there are other available options that may help you delay the aging process. There are procedures that dermatologists offer like: Retin A or Renova prescriptions; chemical peels; botox or collagen injections, laser resurfacing, laser and photo rejuvenation.

We are lucky to live at a time where we have many options. Aging is inevitable. But instead of being afraid of growing old, do everything to live a healthy and happy lifestyle.

This reminds me of something Dorothea Kent shared: “A man ninety years old was asked to what he attributed his longevity. ‘I reckon,’ he said, with a twinkle in his eye, ‘it’s (sic) because most nights I went to bed and slept when I should have sat up and worried.’”