No one likes fine lines, crows’ feet and wrinkles. But before you start flipping out and adding plastic surgeons on speed dial, learn the six doctor prescribed—and proven—approved tips to keep your skin in its best shape possible. As dermatologist Dr. Abhijit Desai says, “Most people are guilty of not wearing sunscreen regularly or following a sensible skincare regime. An ‘all or nothing’ approach can irritate skin, so a common sense approach is the best,” he says. Here are five doctor approved skin remedies for a youthful glow in your 20s, 30, 40s and beyond.
PERSONALIZED, REGULAR SKIN REGIME
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Here’s a sobering thought. Your skin starts aging the minute you’re born. But up until your late 20s, your skin turnover is at an optimal rate that starts slowing down as you enter your 30s. So your mid 20’s are the perfect time to start focusing on an anti-aging regime. “You don’t have to invest in expensive creams. Simply commit to a simple yet personalized regimen that you follow every single day,” recommends Dr. Dhimant Goleria. “To get good results, you have to do the same thing for at least a month because the average skin cycle is 30 days.” If you have normal skin, the Votre Daily Use Set Of Cleanser, Toner Moisturiser is ideal; oily skinned gals could opt for Kaya Advanced Acne Care Kit.
MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE!
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Probably the most important thing to keep in mind—whether you have oily or dry skin—is moisturizing to keep wrinkles and fine lines at bay. “If you have dry skin, you don’t have to worry about acne but it develops signs of aging more quickly than oily skin,” says Dr. Jaishree Sharad. This is because the moisture content of skin plays a vital role in keeping your skin looking youthful. Depending on your skin type, choose a good moisturizer that’s made of natural products. Alternatively use home-based moisturizers like milk cream, papaya and yogurt.
SLATHER ON SUNSCREEN
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Whether you believe it or not, sunscreen is a lifesaver to prevent skin aging. It’s well documented that UVA and UVB rays cause wrinkles, lines, pigmentation and age spots. Slathering on sunscreen is the best way to keep skin looking young. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, it might be a good idea to re-apply after a few hours, says Dr. Desai. “And remember, sunscreen is not just recommended for sunny days. UVA and UVB rays can filter out through clouds and through glass windows too. If you haven’t been fanatical about sunscreen yet, start now. “You can’t take back what you did in the past, but you can prevent further damage,” he says.
SAY NO TO SCRUBS
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There’s a dangerous new trend to exfoliate skin every day. Sure, scrubs are a good way to remove dirt and oil from clogged pores, but over-zealous scrubs and packs do more harm than good. “The upper layer of skin forms a protective barrier. Too much scrubbing disrupts this layer, making skin more sensitive to UV rays, leading to tanning, rashes and sunburns. Many products are made of large scrub particles that actually irritate skin, causing minute tears and breakouts, especially if you have sensitive skin,” says Dr Sharad. In fact, most scrubs tend to dry out skin, making it feel stretchy and scaly. Instead, she suggests using milder home-made packs made of grated coconut mixed in coconut water or crushed almond and mint leaves. However, if you prefer professional formulas, look for cellulose or jojoba-wax based mild scrubs with gentle particles.
REMOVE YOUR MAKEUP
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Last night you had the time of your life but why does your skin have to pay the price? Smoke, alcohol and fried snacks already take a toll on skin, and not taking off all your makeup just worsens the problem. “Not removing makeup is the single biggest skin sin you can commit,” says Dr. Goleria. Skipping this step can wreak havoc on your skin since overnight, the makeup will mix with sweat and bacteria on your face to conjure up blemishes. Plus, overnight makeup dries out skin. So tired, sleepy or drunk, makeup sure to get that gunk off your face.
Start following these five easy steps to get glowing radiant skin and share your experience in the comments below.
