I sometimes forget that when it comes to my age, I passed a major milestone some time ago and that I’m now almost half way to the next decade (yikes!). A look in the mirror usually confirms that, yes, I’m not as young as I once was. Other than banning mirrors (my 8 year old daughter would object quite loudly), removing all the lightbulbs from our home and perhaps donning a mask (okay, that would scare all the neighbourhood children), like everyone else, I have to accept that getting older is just part of life.
Nothing gives away your age more than your skin. So even if you feel not a day older than 20, your wrinkles, sagging skin and age spots may give it all away. While you have some control over how skin looks, your genes may impact the hormonal changes that accompany aging. The decline in estrogen and progesterone that accompany perimenopause and menopause may give rise to dry skin, a loss in skin resilience and even thinning skin. This can happen even if your skin has been healthy throughout most of your adult life.
I’m trying hard to avoid a doom and gloomy theme to this post so I’ll share with you a few of the many things that I relish about getting older and my life right now:
- Not worrying as much about what other people think
- Not feeling like I’m missing out when I stay home on Friday nights. Nothing much compares to hanging out with my favourite people, eating sushi, drinking red wine and watching a great (sometimes not so great) movie to celebrate the end of the week
- Knowing who I am.
Regardless of your age, embrace who you are. No need to obsess over youth, enjoy life right now. And whether you’re 20 or 50, if you want your skin to look healthy through the years follow these simple rules:
- Practice safe sun habits (wear hats, cover up with clothes, use sunglasses and seek shade during peak hours). Wear a broad spectrum UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen daily year round. The sun contributes to over 80% of skin aging. Early protection is always a good idea
- If skin is dry, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
- Incorporate the use of products that include skin beneficial ingredients such as antioxidants, retinoids, exfoliants and gentle cleansers to protect skin
- Follow a healthy diet, exercise, get enough sleep and manage stress.
Beauty really does come from within.
I enjoyed this article and the realistic, sensible advice!
I’d also like to comment about your site in general…
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