How To Maintain Youthful Skin, Naturally!

Botox, topical luxurious skincare, chemical peel, vampire facial, filler; let’s take a breath from invasive procedures and / or costly remedies! What simple steps could we take to stay youthful-looking for longer? Multi-beneficial lifestyle changes are the first step to resulting in healthier, younger, firmer-looking skin and a better YOU, inside and out!

Below the age of 25, many of us think we’ll maintain our plump, wrinkle-free looks forever. We know we’ll age mentally, but the physical realisation hasn’t dawned on us just yet. We simply haven’t witnessed the changes our body will go through. Not only might it affect the skin, it may also play a role in hair, eyes, joints and overall health. That can be dependent on many factors including, genetic, environmental, lifestyle, stress levels etc. But there are changes we could make which might just solve all of our anti-aging worries!

1. Water: I cannot emphasise this enough. Let’s be honest with ourselves, majority of us aren’t drinking the recommended intake of water which is average 2-3 litres per day – depending on additional factors like weather, how active you are etc. How do we expect our skin to naturally glow if we’re dehydrated? Of course just like a raisin, we’ll shrivel up prematurely due to a lack of moisture. I see so many people who constantly drink fizzy, caffeinated or even alcohol – which have the opposite effect, they dry out your skin and can make you look somewhat dull and grey. Water may not taste great to some, but it’s one of the cheapest formulas, more accessible than drugstores, Selfridges or private medical professionals.
2. Diet: Improve the nutritious component in your dietary needs. Say goodbye to junk and processed food. Even a shop-bought load of bread is defined as ultra-processed. Stick to the basics – fruit, veg, eggs meat etc. Stripping back the ingredients you use is the only way to be in control and mindful of what enters your body.
3. SPF and lessening direct sun exposure: Tan is temporary. Fine lines and skin damage leading to premature aging is permanent. Treat your skin like you would care for a baby’s. Remember, the shade is your best friend. Protection is key!
4. Sleep: easier said than done. Many of us don’t get a fraction of the beauty sleep we need. It can really raise its head regarding our skin. Blemishes, eye bags discolouration take time to heal. At night, the skin has its highest level of blood flow which helps repair badly damaged skin. So why limit that as though it lacks significance? Prioritise your shut eye instead of concealing the potential effects of sleep deprivation.
5. Exercise: Sweat it all out. Just imagine the gunk building up in your pores unable to reach the skin’s surface due to blockages. Now this could be caused by many reasons, including hormones, acne and other skin conditions. But one thing to try before any potent topical products or oral medication, is simple exercise. Sweat gently opens up your pores and can naturally release and extract any build-up underneath the skin, leaving your skin looking fresh, plump and healthy.
6. Moisturise: Your skin needs hydration. Even if you’re gulping litres constantly, you can’t expect water, spf, sleep and exercise to make its own organic moisturising formula. It’s one piece of the puzzle, moisturiser is one of the final steps in your self-care routine. It’s like the icing on top, the rest of the steps are the base, comparative to a cake. Be sure to choose a gentle but effective moisturiser. The longer the list of ingredients you can barely pronounce, the more complicated it is for your skin. Skincare shouldn’t be a complexity, if it is, look for a simpler, preferably unscented alternative. What I’m using currently is the REN Evercalm Global Protection Cream – Light but hydrating enough for the summer months! And most importantly for me with eczemic and acne-prone skin; non-comedogenic!
7. Cleanse and exfoliate: Cleansing with a simple cleanser can make all the difference. It preps and washes away your entire day. The fundamental aspect in if a cleanser works for your specific skin type, is if it leaves your skin feeling clean but not stripped and sight. Scent is also a no-no, personally for me anyway. And if you’re looking for the gentlest option cleansing milks don’t foam up and are just right for the most sensitive of skin. I use the La Roche-Posay Toleraine Dermo Cleanser which works like a dream. If you like to double cleanse to remove makeup, a cleansing oil is a great addition that breaks down your makeup, including mascara in a flash. Dermalogica Precleanse is a game-changer. Exfoliator, I tend to limit to only a few times a week, probably twice or three times. Having combination skin, I’m mindful not to overly exfoliate as it can have the opposite effect and potentially cause more issues. But depending on skin type, it can be beneficial to exfoliate daily, it’s really down to preference. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a cult classic which leaves your skin glowing, its pretty miraculous.

Autumn and winter is only a few sleeps away, so lock down what works for you skin to prepare for the winter chill ahead!

Lastly, ageing is inevitable. Happiness is an anti-ageing product you can’t buy! Enjoy the moment, it’ll reflect in your skin too! Who doesn’t like radiance?

What do you think? What steps do you think you may try out? Is skincare a problem for you? Have you tried any procedures? What works for you? Comment below!