Glowing skin is easily within everyone’s reach. The truth of the matter is that your skin is a direct reflection of your inner health; therefore it makes sense that the better you take care of yourself the better your skin will appear.

The only “but”, and it is a big “but”, is that if you have not taken care of your skin over the years you may require some anti-ageing treatments to reverse the visible signs of ageing.  Nutrition, vitamins and lifestyle will play a massive role in preserving youthful skin and should form part of your anti-ageing regime.

What to eat

In terms of nutrition, Glycation is the biggest risk factor with regards to skin ageing. More and more research is suggesting that what we eat does play a significant role in our visible age.
Glycation is the process whereby simple sugar molecules bombard protein and lipid cells, inhibiting normal enzyme function of the cells

The proteins in skin most prone to Glycation are the same ones that make a youthful complexion so plump and springy—collagen and elastin. When those proteins become susceptible to Glycation, they become discolored, weak, and less supple becomes visible in the skin as wrinkles, crêpey skin, and as a loss of radiance.

Vitamins

In simple terms vitamins can definitely contribute to healthy and glowing skin. Remember to stick to the daily allowances and be aware that some vitamins might also have other benefits or side effects. Here is my 5 top vitamin list:

• Vitamin A for wrinkles
• Vitamin B3 for redness
• Vitamin C for spots
• Vitamin E for moisture
• Vitamin K for dark circles

 

Lifestyle habits

Lifestyle habits contribute more to skin health than most like to admit. Sun damage is a leading cause of wrinkles and skin dehydration. Smoking too robs the skin of oxygen causing wrinkles and poor skin quality, and of course alcohol dilates vessels in the skin leading to increased redness and hastened ageing.

It is extremely important to live life in moderation. Apply moisturiser twice a day; wear sunblock and reapply throughout the day and one cannot overlook the necessity for a neutral ph. non-soap facial cleanser. These simple tips will keep your skin glowing.

 

Myths and old wives tales

Lets take a moment to dispel some myths and old wives tales to aid your glowing skin plan for 2014. These are just little titbits that are wonderful to know, and can help you make the correct skin care choice.

Myth: Acne is caused by oily and dirty skin
Acne is most often hormone related and has very little to do with diet or cleanliness of the skin.

Myth: If you have oily skin you can skip the moisturiser. This is completely untrue. Everyone will benefit from daily moisturising regardless of your skin oil levels. Moisturisers assist the skin barrier and help maintain moisture levels, if you do have oily skin then opt for oil free moisturiser products.

Myth: If you want to know how you’ll look when you are old then look at your mother. This is completely untrue. Genetics influence your skin colour and tones, but only contribute to 10% of your aged skin. The rest is skincare and lifestyle.

Myth: Lemon lightens skin. Yes lemon does have a minor and gentle whitening effect, but not enough to make a significant difference. Rather visit an expert for pigmentation problems.

Myth: Use toothpaste to treats spots and pimples. Toothpaste will do nothing to treat your pimples but they often contain menthol, which will cool and soothe inflammation.

Thank you for your time and thank you Destiny Magazine