7 Ways to Achieve More Youthful Looking Skin

Woman's face - tips for more youthful looking skin.

I am afraid of needles and so when I was invited to a botox party, I graciously declined. Would I like to lessen the look of aging? Sure, but the thought of a needle being injected in my face, even for the promise of youthful skin, gives me serious pause. For those like me, who are afraid of needles, or those that aren’t fans of injectables that promise youth, there are many non-painful ways to make your skin appear more radiant and healthy.

7 Ways to Help Your Skin Look More Youthful

    1. Stop tanning

    The sun has the biggest affect on your skin; the damage starts when you are young, and the effects may not show up until years later. Baking in the sun is a sure way to get the leathery skin that people want to avoid. Protect your skin by wearing big hats and sunglasses to protect your face, and use sunblock for extra protection. Don’t forget your neck and hands! These areas tend to be forgotten and can really show age. Sun exposure can also lead to skin cancer.

    2. Get your beauty sleep

    Getting insufficient shut-eye can age skin prematurely and, in the short run, result in dark circles and a lackluster complexion. Research has found that people who slept 7 to 9 hours a night had skin that was more moisturized and that could protect and heal itself better after being exposed to ultraviolet light compared to those who slept 5 hours or less. Skin cells regenerate more quickly at night because collagen, the protein responsible for helping your skin keep its volume and elasticity, is produced as the skin cells regenerate. There is also more blood flow to the skin during sleep, which delivers the nutrients it needs to recover from a day of exposure to the elements.

    3. Cleanse

    Before you even put your head on your pillow, make sure you remove all makeup and cleanse your face. Neglecting to do this can lead to break outs and dull skin!

    4. Hydrate

    Making sure you are getting enough hydration inside and out is an important step to making your skin look healthy. Drinking plenty of water and conscientiously moisturizing in the morning and evening will help hold moisture in the skin cells.

    5. Stop smoking

    Smoking is the number one avoidable cause of wrinkles. Smoking guarantees to result in deep wrinkles on the upper lip.

    6. Eat fat

    Fats play a vital role in the human body. Foods like salmon, walnuts and coconut oil provide healthy fats that are necessary for radiant skin. Without enough fat, you may experience dry skin, which makes you look older. If you don’t get enough of these fats in your diet, an essential fatty acids supplement may help.

    7. Exfoliate

    A surface layer of dead cells results in a dull, drab appearance to the skin. A simple method of home exfoliation is to apply a weekly face mask. Homemade masks are excellent, or you can purchase one at a health food store that is right for your skin type.

    Homemade Face Mask

    • ¼ cup powdered oatmeal
    • 1 Tbsp yogurt
    • Few drops of rose water

    Combine all ingredients in a small bowl until well mixed. Apply to a clean face for 5 to 7 minutes, then gently wash off. Repeat once per week, or as you wish.