As we age, we start to see more lines as our skin becomes thinner and drier. While genetics does play a role in the appearance of our skin, the biggest influences on our skin involve our health habits and lifestyle choices. Smoking, diet and other lifestyle choices all affect how we age. Fortunately, there are many steps we can keep our skin young and healthy. 

Fortunately, no matter how old you are, you can follow these seven simple steps to reduce lines and sagging skin and maintain that youthful, healthy glow we all want.

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    1

    AVOID EXCESSIVE SUN EXPOSURE

    Just because summer is over, it doesn’t mean you can still get a sunburn. The sun still emits cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) radiation all year long. It should also not come as a surprise that excessive sun exposure is the main cause of wrinkles.

    Luckily, the easiest way to avoid getting a sunburn is by wearing sunscreen. And for extra protection, you can wear a hat and light-colored or long-sleeved clothes to minimize exposure. Doing so will prevent you from getting wrinkles and skin cancer at the same time.

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    2

    DON’T SMOKE

    We all know the dangerous effects of smoking tobacco as its chemicals damage our health. This includes nicotine as it slows down our blood flow and limits our skin from getting enough oxygen. The substance also lowers the nutrients we need for our skin, such as vitamin A.

    Even worse, the heat itself from the burning cigarette can also dry up our skin. And, the inhaling of tobacco can lead to premature wrinkling around our mouth. So, you should quit smoking by speaking with your doctor to live a longer life.

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    3

    STAY HYDRATED

    We should also know that we need to stay hydrated to keep our systems working. Drinking water keeps our skin healthy and hydrated from the inside. By consuming eight glasses of water a day, we can avoid dry skin and wrinkles.

    But if you are not a fan of drinking water, then you can try other alternatives such as fruit or citrus-infused water or low-sodium broths.

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    4

    EAT HEALTHY

    Eating wholesome food also prevents us from getting wrinkles and skin damage at an early age. By consuming more fruits and vegetables, we will be providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that reduce cell damage and make our skin look younger.

    A recent 2019 study found that those who ate a high amount of red meat and unhealthy snacks were more likely to develop wrinkles than those who ingested healthy food. So, consider eating more meals with high antioxidant content such as berries, salmon, and carrots.

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    5

    APPLY MOISTURIZER

    Another easy way to limit wrinkles is by applying moisturizer on our skin to stay nourished and hydrated. As mentioned before, our skin continues to thin and dry as we get older.

    Fortunately, most moisturizer products contain hyaluronic acid and vitamin C that prevents wrinkles from forming or getting deeper. Be sure to ask your dermatologist the recommended moisturizer to use on your face and body.

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    6

    GET ENOUGH SLEEP

    It turns out we need our beauty sleep to reduce wrinkles. A lack of sleep could lead to increased aging as we’re not allowing our body to repair itself. So, make sure you are getting seven to nine hours of sleep every day.

    And while you’re at it, be sure to sleep on your back as a 2016 study showed that sleeping on your side or stomach also causes wrinkles. And, consider using a silk pillowcase as it is softer on your skin than cotton.

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    7

    LOWER YOUR STRESS

    We all know stress can lead to numerous health problems, such as mental illnesses and cardiovascular disease. However, it also affects our skin as it causes wrinkles, acne, and rashes.

    Simply make time for yourself by doing relaxing activities, such as reading a book or listening to music. You can also work out to improve your skin and the rest of your body. Or, you can treat yourself by wearing a face mask or going to a spa. Make self-care a part of your daily routine to boost your health.

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