Tips for youthful skin

Skin ageing has become a common phenomenon. DR AJAY RANA tells you how one can achieve a perfect young look naturally

Skin ageing has become a common problem today. Be it men or women, the problem is faced by ample number of people. The unhealthy and processed food is one of main cause of skin ageing. Processed foods contain all type of ingredients which body doesn’t recognise and that leads to skin ageing and a weakened immune system. Skin ageing is characterised by features such as rough-textured appearance, wrinkling and loss of elasticity.

However, age and skin aging processes have been considered complex even with different factors. The conventional ageing mostly depends upon the individual genes, proteins, and other intrinsic in isolation. But, the processes of ageing involve the interaction of physical, biological, psychological, social and cultural aspects as well. Ageing also is affected by personal habits, diet and living environments beside medical issues. The effects of physical exercise, drugs, vitamins, hormones and antioxidants may have an impact on longevity. Skin is the hurdle that set apart the body from the outer environment. Besides protecting the body from water loss and infections, it has an important cosmetic role. However, exposure to sunlight is the one of the biggest culprit in ageing skin. Over time, the sun’s ultraviolet light damages certain fibers produced in the skin called elastin. The breakdown of elastin fibers causes  stretch, skin to sag, and lose its ability to restore back after stretching. 

As a society, we value beauty and strive to look young and that leads us to the companies which exploit these desires, knowing that we will try anything in our search for a miracle cure for ageing and using skin care products that sting or burn that leaves your skin irritated which damages the skin and as a result, the natural oils found on face surface go rancid, which breaks down collagen and speeds ageing. One of the most important ways you can prevent your skin from ageing is to make sure you’re not dousing it with harmful chemicals.

There are few ways which can help you slowdown your ageing.

• Try drinking two-three liters of water per day. Hydrating keeps one’s skin looking young, bright and glowing.
• Exercising regularly decreases the chance for persistent disease, depression and cognitive decline, and can keep your skin looking younger
• Use fish oils. These supplements are rich in the essential omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA and enhance cardiovascular, vision health; strengthen skin, hair, and nails, and memory skills.
• Glutathione is the master antioxidant in the body and also known for one of the most powerful supplements for slowing down the ageing process
• Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is a potent, versatile antioxidant that helps to fend off inflammation, balances blood sugar and protect skin’s collagen.
• Stop Smoking. It greatly speeds up your skin ages. It causes wrinkles and a dull, sallow complexion.
• Regular exercise can improve circulation and boost the immune system. This, may give the skin a more-youthful appearance.
• Apply a facial moisturiser on a daily basis. Moisturiser keeps water in our skin, giving it a more youthful appearance. 
• Stem cell transplantation is a promising therapy for the treatment of skin ageing. Adipose tissue transplantation could improve skin quality and also contribute to the regeneration of skin during ageing.     

The writer is Founder-Director, ILAMED