Anti-Aging

Aging is literally the act of slowing down. Our skin begins to sag and lose its firmness as the internal scaffolding that interlaces to hold it up begins to break down at a rate faster than it can be replaced. Add that to the years spent in the sun and in compromising environments show up in the form of sun spots, wrinkles, and dryness. Aging is not a pretty process, but there are many steps a person can take to age more naturally.

Anti-aging, a term that refers to the slowing down or reversal of the aging process, is possible by many ways. One natural method is the adoption of a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, consisting of both cardiovascular exercise (aerobics, running, biking) and resistance training (utilizing weights) can increase the delivery of consumed nutrients to your skin and help maintain your skin’s firmness longer. Eating well is also an essential part of the anti-aging process. Balanced meals high in antioxidants are most beneficial for your skin.

Nature’s antioxidants also come in topical form. Retinol, a form of vitamin A,is present in many anti-aging creams and reduces wrinkles. Creams containing B and C vitamins can also be effective as anti-aging treatments.

Some people opt for cosmetic procedures. Certified physicians inject synthesized forms of chemicals that the skin begins to lose as we age (fat, collagen, hyaluronic acid, etc.) into the face, neck, décolletage, and hands to temporarily smooth out wrinkles. Another common injected chemical is the botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox.

Physicians perform a variety of other anti-aging treatments, such as light therapy and the use of dermarollers. Both treatments stimulate the formation of collagen under the skin. The most in