How to Reclaim the Skin Tone of Your Youth

Maintaining beautiful skin in the later years of life requires that we discover effective ways to ward off the harmful free radicals responsible for accelerating DNA damage that causes our skin to age untimely. Unlike beauty, beautiful skin is more than skin deep. Our skin is the largest organ we possess. Its covering, known as the acid mantle, requires nourishment and the ability to effectively eliminate toxins so it can inhibit the growth of disease causing germs and bacteria. Premature aging and other skin problems are one of the surest signs of poor nutrition. An improved skin care regiment along with a healthy nutrition modification will quickly be mirrored by change in your skin's appearance.

What we consume is the number one key to great skin and a good diet is the main ingredient. Eating plenty of mineral rich foods such as leafy greens, bell peppers, broccoli, sesame and sunflower seeds, as well as fish and sea vegetables should be top on your list. Adding some cleansing foods such as fresh fruits, watermelon juice, cucumbers, and remembering to drink plenty of water should also not be overlooked.

Vitamins and minerals feed the skin and supplement any nutrition deficiencies that may have been over looked and are beginning to reveal themselves in our complexion. Pycnogenol and Vitamin C offer effective collagen support. Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that Restylane, a popular anti-wrinkle treatment can also speeds up the production of collagen. Collagen is responsible for firming and plumping the skin.

There are a number of herbal skin therapy methods that have been found to be affective. Herbs are a wonderful non-invasive way to beautify your skin. The herbs are packed with absorbent minerals, anti oxidants, fatty acids, and bioflavonoid. These herbs cleanse, hydrate, heal and balance the alkalizes, glands, and hormones in your skin cells.

External maintenance is also required. A blend of Aloe Vera gel and Vitamin E oil is an excellent skin bracer. A 20 minute early morning sunlight shower on your skin daily is a great way to feed it its requirement of Vitamin D. Also, regular aerobic exercise increases your blood circulation and tones up the skin. Exfoliating and cleansing your skin with a loofah sponge and dry skin brush will create a glow that is unmistakable as it improves the dry and rough patches you may have.

We all know age can strip your skin of its moisture, shine, softness and suppleness, leaving it dry and not very attractive. To protect your skin and revitalize it follow these simple skin care techniques and in no time the skin of your youth will return to you.

Resource: Great Skin at 50 - Health Magazine - March 2008