Let's face it; we all age. And while there's no way to deter the natural aging process that comes with time, there are definitely ways to slow it down and prevent the unmistakable signs of our chronological age. Although these tips are not difficult to implement, it will require a bit of work to institute the protection needed to keep your skin in peak condition.
Wash your face
Although this seems simplistic and obvious, many women (and men) don’t take the time to properly care for their skin, especially before bed. Just as our bodies need to rest and recover during the night, the same is true for the skin. Include a toxin-free cleansing routine before bed to remove makeup, environmental toxins, and other dirt and grime from the day. Be sure to use a toner to restore a healthy pH and then apply a moisturizer to nourish and protect your skin while you sleep.
Manage stress
Chronic stress can result in elevated levels of cortisol, which can accelerate the aging process. In essence, cortisol breaks down the tiny collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, allowing wrinkles and creases to form. Including adaptogenic herbs such as Ashwagandha or Rhodiola as part of your daily routine can reduce stress and slow down the release of cortisol.
Maintain healthy blood sugar levels
Interestingly, the perception of a persons' age increased with patients who had consistently higher levels of blood sugar and insulin, the hormone responsible for shuttling glucose into the cells. It seems that hyperglycemia causes increased aging of certain skin cells and an increased weakening of collagen fibers. To help maintain proper blood sugar levels, consider including foods rich in chromium, and eliminate refined sugar and grains.
Get sufficient sleep
Getting your beauty sleep every night isn't just an old wives’ tale. Poor sleep quality can accelerate the signs of aging and reduce the skin's ability to repair itself over time. An increase in fine lines, uneven pigmentation, and reduced elasticity have been correlated with those whose sleep is less than optimal. Herbal support such as valerian, kava, skullcap, and St. John's wort can all help induce a blissful night's sleep.
Gotu Kola
One of our favorite ‘anti-aging’ herbs, Gotu Kola, has a superpower unlike other herbs in that it helps repair damaged skin. It is a common ingredient in skin-rejuvenating cosmetics and other topical treatments because of its ability to help skin cells heal and repair. Gotu Kola reduces scarring and improves the function of connective tissue, even assisting with bone healing. We like to call Gotu Kola 'a facelift in a bottle' because it works so well for improving the overall tone and health of the skin.
Get sufficient calcium and fatty acids
Calcium is absolutely necessary to maintain healthy skin, muscles, and bones. But there’s one catch: calcium needs to hitch a ride on some kind of essential fatty acid to travel from the bloodstream to the skin. Not only are fatty acids needed for healthy skin, but they are also perfectly suited to help calcium make the trip. Two of our favorite EFAs for skin health are wheat germ or flaxseed oil. When combined with other synergistic nutrients, either one of these can protect the skin from the effects of the sun and keep it as healthy-looking as possible.
Stay hydrated
Your body is made of 45-75% water, so it only makes sense that the amount of water you drink would influence skin appearance. One of the best ways to observe this in real life is to travel from a dry climate to a humid one or vice versa. The change in the appearance and feel of the skin is dramatic. Researchers found that those who consumed upwards of one gallon of water per day had better skin appearance overall.
Avoid the sun (and toxic sunscreens)
Being a sun-worshipper might have been the thing to do when you were younger, but the consequences of too much sun exposure can be readily seen as we age. Most will recommend wearing sunscreen to protect from the sun's effects, but sadly, many of them contain toxic ingredients. If you love the warmth of the sun, try to get your sunshine-fill early in the morning or later in the afternoon. And don't forget your Calcium Lactate and Cataplex F for added skin protection.
Eat a nutrient-rich diet
Several foods can help your body naturally produce collagen and improve the appearance of your skin. Among the top of the list are berries, citrus fruits, egg whites, bone broth, garlic, leafy greens, fish, and chicken. And as always, choose the best quality you can to ensure you're getting as many beneficial nutrients as possible.
If you want to prolong the effects of aging, especially in your skin, you've got plenty of tools to promote beautiful skin for years to come!