The Anti-Aging Journey

For those of you under 30, anti-aging skincare is probably not the highest priority on your to-do list. But for those of us past 30 (and past 40, I must be honest), even if we never thought of ourselves as vain, we do glance in the mirror and wonder if we're doing enough to keep our skin looking young for as long as possible.

I have been blessed (thanks Mom!) with good genes. Folks in my gene pool tend to look 10 or more years younger than their actual age for a long time. Even in their 80's (we live a long time too), my family members look great. But even good genes aren't enough, especially if you like to spend time outdoors.

Here are some anti-aging skin care tips to help you along.

Drink plenty of water. Really, it is not an old wives tale. Staying hydrated keeps your skin plump and young looking. Dehydrated skin looks dry and wrinkly. Eat right and take your vitamins. If you're eating fast food, sweets and sodas, you're not doing your skin any favors. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and lean proteins. Your waistline and your skin will thank you. Exercise. Right along with a healthy diet, exercise keeps you young--inside and out.

Use good quality skin care products. I'm sorry ladies, but soap and water are not going to make you a natural beauty. You don't need a complicated regimen, but a cleanser and moisturizer suitable to your skin type should form the backbone of your anti-aging skin care routine. Look for anti-aging cosmetics. As we age we don't want to look heavily made up, as if we're trying to hide something. What you do want is simple daily make up that both enhances your skin and makes you look younger. Wear a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 every day. Preferably use one with natural sun blocking ingredients, such as zinc, and not chemical blockers.

Wash your face every night, even if you didn't wear make up. Cosmetics, oils and environmental toxins need to be washed away before you jump into bed. Think of all the dirt, pollens and pollutants floating around in the air that have been quietly making themselves comfortable on your skin; get rid of them and prevent environmental damage to your skin.

Don't smoke. Talk about toxic pollutants that can damage your skin. Non-smokers will always look younger than smokers.

The anti-aging journey doesn't need to be filled with rocky roads and washed out bridges, just follow these simple, healthy tips and you can keep your youthful appearance for many years.