Aging Skin - Ways To Slow It Down!

Keeping the body well hydrated is an essential step to slow down the signs of skin aging. In addition to water, coconut water is extremely healthy and will do the skin a world of good. Rich in lauric acid, coconut water is known for its anti-aging properties and protects the skin from a varied range of infections and skin problems. The presence of the antioxidant proanthocyanidin found in red grapes (used in making red wine) makes Red wine a healthy choice for the skin.

Elastin and collagen are proteins that help to main the skin elasticity and firmness. However, with time, the collagen and elastin fibers become weak and break down. The proteins also become thick and stiff. As a result of these changes, the skin loses its elasticity and appear saggy and wrinkled, one of the visible signs of skin aging. While skin aging is inevitable, appropriate preventive measure can help to slow down the aging process.

Smoking can trigger premature skin aging (characteristic "Smoker's Face"). Uncontrolled smoking causes a significant dip in the flow of blood, especially to the face. This results in deleterious consequences including the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, as well as crow's feet (often referred to as laugh lines which develop around the outer eye corners). Cosmetic options such as a Facelift surgery can help to get rid of the signs of skin aging to a great extent.

Foods rich in antioxidants play a pivotal role in slowing down the skin aging process. The antioxidants act as a protective shield to safeguard the skin from the oxidative stress and damage (both intracellular as well as extracellular) caused by the free radicals. Fruits (berries, prunes, raisins, oranges, red grapes), green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach, broccoli florets), green and herbal tea are rich in antioxidants and thus, helps to slow down the skin aging. One cannot miss out on the spices and herbs such as onion, garlic, and turmeric which are laden with antioxidants.