Anti-aging treatments are specifically designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. These treatments are commonly performed on parts of the body that are most susceptible to the earliest signs of aging, such as the face, neck, and hands.

Depending on the extent of the condition, treatment options range from over-the-counter ant-aging products such as creams and lotions to Botox injections and highly invasive surgical procedures such as facelift. Each option comes with certain risks, so it is important for patients to have a thorough discussion with their skin care and anti-aging specialists before undergoing any type of treatment.

Who Should Undergo & Expected Results

Anti-aging treatments are highly recommended for those who are prone to developing wrinkles and fine lines, as well as those who have loose, sagging skin. People who usually take advantage of these treatments are those who are at least 30 years old. Research shows that these are more popular with the female population, however, more and more male patients are now starting to appreciate the benefits of anti-aging treatments.

Anti-aging treatments work in different ways, but they are mostly geared towards restoring the skin’s natural collagen supply. Collagen, a protein found in connective tissues, is responsible for maintaining the skin’s plumpness. However, due to the natural aging process, the body’s collagen supply tends to deteriorate over time.

Today, there are different techniques used to stimulate the production of collagen and with the help of new technologies, side effects such as damage to the topmost skin layer, are significantly minimized.

The expected results may differ depending on the type of treatment and the specific type of substance used. The most common types of ingredients in anti-aging treatments include:

Retinol – A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is a milder form of retinoid. Although it can takes several weeks to take effect, it is proven to be highly effective in reducing wrinkles, unclogging pores, reducing the appearance of brown age spots, and improving the skin’s overall texture.

Hyaluronic Acid – Hyaluronic acid is a popular humectant, a substance that draws water from the air, which makes it a natural and very effective moisturizer. It works great in hydrating the skin, and is found not only in prescription anti-aging medications and cosmetic treatments, but also in over-the-counter lotions.

Niacinamide – Niacinamide works by preventing melanin from becoming visible. The overproduction of melanin causes pigmentation of the skin, which can cause sunspots and other unsightly marks and tags. This vitamin B3 derivative is typically used to treat acne scars, age spots, and sunspots by lightening them so they become less visible.

The Signs of Aging

Beautiful skin is a greater signifier of youth than being free of lines and wrinkles. However, the skin is quick to show the visible signs of ageing, commonly known as the Seven Signs of Ageing.

While some of the skin-related factors can be reined in with healthy lifestyle choices and a good skincare regime, many of the characteristics of ageing are a matter of genetics.

Fine lines and wrinkles

Fine lines, crow’s feet and wrinkles are the most evident and often most concern-causing signs of ageing for men and women. Wrinkles are a result of the elastin and collagen fibres, which keep our skin firm and taut, weakening. This leads to skin looseness and laxity and the subsequent wrinkles.

Dullness of skin

The glowing, dewy skin of youth slowly fades with age. The result is a dulled complexion due to the depleted moisture levels in the top layer of the skin, which naturally occurs with age. While young skin renews itself at every three to four weeks, older skin is slower to renew itself at every four to six weeks.

Uneven skin tone

Ageing causes the complexion to become uneven in certain places. This may be due to parts of the skin harbouring more melanin than others, or the function in the hormonal levels in females. This unevenness can lead to skin looker older than its years.

Dry skin

Young, healthy skin has a high moisture content, leading to a fresh, dewy and radiant appearance, Over the ageing process this depletes as the skin loses its ability to retain the moisture. Older skin is often characterized by dryness and dehydration.

Blotchiness and age spots

Thinning skin associated with ageing leads to the increased visibility of tony bloods vessels that appear. Age spots or liver spots, which are reddish or brown in color, are caused mostly by over-exposure to UV rays and become more evident in ageing skin. They produce a blotchy look that contributes to an aged appearance.

Rough skin texture

As the skin matures, changes in texture become noticeable. Skin that was once baby-soft and smooth becomes uneven and bumpy on the surface due to the layers of dead cells and the cell turnover slowing.

Visible pores

Pores become enlarged or more visible with age due to loss of skin elasticity and skin being drawn down by gravity.

What causes our skin to age?

There are a range of different factors that cause our skin to age both as a result of the natural ageing process, environmental and lifestyle factors. Ultra violet rays are a major contributor to skin ageing in Australia, although smoking, stress, medication, climate, alcohol and several others way in.

The seven main factors that age skin faster comes down to:

• Smoking
• Over-exposure to the sun
• Stress
• Lack of sleep
• Cold weather
• Alcohol
• Lack of exercise

Ways to reduce premature skin aging

The sun plays a major role in prematurely aging our skin. Other things that we do also can age our skin more quickly than it naturally would. To help their patients prevent premature skin aging, dermatologists offer their patients the following tips.

Protect your skin from the sun every day. Whether spending a day at the beach or running errands, sun protection is essential. You can protect your skin by seeking shade, covering up with sun-protective clothing — such as a lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection — and using sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, SPF 30 (or higher), and water-resistant. You should apply sunscreen every day to all skin that is not covered by clothing. For more effective protection, look for clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) label.

Apply self-tanner rather than get a tan. Every time you get a tan, you prematurely age your skin. This holds true if you get a tan from the sun, a tanning bed, or other indoor tanning equipment. All emit harmful UV rays that accelerate how quickly your skin ages.

If you smoke, stop. Smoking greatly speeds up how quickly skin ages. It causes wrinkles and a dull, sallow complexion.

Avoid repetitive facial expressions. When you make a facial expression, you contract the underlying muscles. If you repeatedly contract the same muscles for many years, these lines become permanent. Wearing sunglasses can help reduce lines caused by squinting.

Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Findings from a few studies suggest that eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may help prevent damage that leads to premature skin aging. Findings from research studies also suggest that a diet containing lots of sugar or other refined carbohydrates can accelerate aging.

Drink less alcohol. Alcohol is rough on the skin. It dehydrates the skin, and in time, damages the skin. This can make us look older.

Exercise most days of the week. Findings from a few studies suggest that moderate exercise can improve circulation and boost the immune system. This, in turn, may give the skin a more-youthful appearance.

Cleanse your skin gently. Scrubbing your skin clean can irritate your skin. Irritating your skin accelerates skin aging. Gentle washing helps to remove pollution, makeup, and other substances without irritating your skin.

Wash your face twice a day and after sweating heavily. Perspiration, especially when wearing a hat or helmet, irritates the skin, so you want to wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating.

Apply a facial moisturizer every day. Moisturizer traps water in our skin, giving it a more youthful appearance.

Stop using skin care products that sting or burn. When your skin burns or stings, it means your skin is irritated. Irritating your skin can make it look older.

Best Anti-Aging Foods

Blueberries

“Considered a superfood, these berries are one of the healthiest foods you can eat with numerous health benefits,” says Bansari Acharya, a metro-Detroit-based registered dietitian and nutritionist with FoodLove.com. They have powerful antioxidant properties in them that help fight off free radicals, which may lead to slowing down aging. Blueberries, says Acharya, are so versatile that you can enjoy them in smoothies, salads, or even on their own.

Green tea

Green tea contains numerous beneficial compounds in it such as antioxidants and phytochemicals that may decrease inflammation in the body. “Accelerated aging is usually caused by increased inflammation and the compounds in green tea may fight off with free radicals that can cause damage to cells,” Acharya explains. Green tea can be consumed traditionally or even more popularly through matcha powder.

Spinach

Leafy greens, like spinach, are filled with tons of vitamins that act as antioxidants. These anti-aging foods also filled with loads of fiber that are great to keep your heart and digestive system healthy. Acharya notes that you can add spinach to salads, smoothies, and even soups.

Dark chocolate

Dessert lovers rejoice! Dark chocolate, says Acharya, “may increase the blood flow and circulation in the skin, which may increase the moisture in the skin.” This, she says, can reduce the formation and appearance of wrinkles. This food is also high on antioxidants and may also aid in reducing inflammation levels in the body. Dark chocolate can be enjoyed by itself or with nuts such as dark chocolate almonds.

Avocados

Avocados are packed with healthful fats that may be beneficial to skin health. Jenn LaVardera, a registered dietitian and expert nutritionist for Naturipe. Research has shown people who eat diets higher in monounsaturated fats; the type of fat found in avocados, have a lower risk of severe facial skin aging. “Avocados also pack the compounds lutein and zeaxanthin, pigments that can help maintain eye health and reduce risk of macular degeneration due to age,” explains LaVardera. You can add avocados to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies, or enjoy a breakfast of smashed avocado toast.

Flaxseeds

Hydration is key to helping to ward off wrinkles and keep your skin looking supple and youthful. One study found that participants who supplemented with flaxseed oil experienced a 39% increase in skin hydration after a period of 12 weeks. An improvement in skin roughness and smoothness was also observed from eating this anti-aging food.

Salmon

Another omega-3 rich food is salmon. The type of omega-3 fat found here, called DHA (i.e., docosahexaenoic acid) is of particular importance to protecting the brain, heart, and eyes from aging. And bonus: “Studies show that people who include DHA in their diets also have lower risks for the main causes of vision loss as we age, including macular degeneration,” says Elizabeth Somer, a registered dietitian, author of Age-Proof Your Body, and medical advisory board member at Persona Nutrition.

Legumes

Whether they are lentils, chickpeas, split peas, or black, kidney, navy, or pinto beans, legumes are packed with nutrients that support mental health, such as folate, calcium, copper, magnesium, iron, and zinc. The folate in beans protects against a memory-destroying compound called homocysteine.

The antioxidant phytonutrients in legumes, such as saponins and phytosterols, may help protect against wrinkles and, per Somer, can also help lower cancer and heart disease risk. Try legumes in chili, bean burritos, or split pea soup.

Collagen

Collagen is the main structural component of our connective tissue. And as we age, our body’s collagen supply naturally declines. Thus, consuming collagen supplements can help to combat this natural progression of age. Carielle Nikkel, a registered dietitian and vice president of nutrition at Persona Nutrition, explains that collagen powder can be easily mixed into beverages. “It’s tasteless and dissolves instantly. You can blend it into your coffee for a frothy and delicious beverage.”

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are high in Vitamin D, which is important in the formation and maintenance of normal bones and plays an integral in supporting our immune system. “Next time you make a meatloaf or meatballs chop up some mushrooms to add some extra nutrition to your meal,” suggests Nikkel.

Lemons

Do you start off your morning with a glass of warm lemon water? You’re onto something! These citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin C, which is crucial in skin health. One study found that women who consumed more Vitamin C had a lower likelihood of a wrinkled appearance and skin dryness, making it one of the best anti-aging foods.

Olive oil

This delicious oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, which Nikkel says can help to improve the health of our hearts. “Utilize olive as a salad dressing mixed with balsamic dressing or drizzle it over vegetables and roast them in the oven for additional heart-healthy benefits,” she suggests. You can also apply it topically for some extra moisturizing. Olive has been linked to possibly helping to ward off skin cancer.

Pineapple

This tropical fruit has a hidden anti-aging trick up its sleeve. “It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, which is necessary to manufacture collagen – a protein which supports skin structure,” explains registered dietitian Susan Bowerman. Enjoy it by itself, toss some cubes in a stir-fry, or put together a tropical fruit salad.

Coconut

Coconut is not only highly nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it also helps support the natural chemical balance of the skin to help to prevent wrinkles and it functions as a protective anti-oxidan. Coconut also helps promote healthy-looking hair and it can help control dandruff.

Pumpkin

The vibrant orange color of this squash indicates that it’s loaded with beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. This gets converted to Vitamin A in the liver, which helps prevent wrinkles and keep your skin youthful and moisturized. “This is the perfect food if you are experiencing dry skin,” says Markowitz. Pumpkin is also loaded with Vitamin C, another antioxidant that protects collagen and boosts our immune systems.

Carrots

Carrots are not only good for your eyes but are also amazing for smooth skin. Carotenoids, found in carrots, are your protection from everyday pollutants and can help to ward off prevent wrinkles.” The beta carotene in carrots is a skin-friendly nutrient that gets converted to vitamin A inside the body and can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays,” explains Markowitz.

Kale

“Dark leafy greens, like kale, are high in antioxidants and other nutrients like vitamin C that boost your body’s collagen production, improving the texture, appearance, and firmness of your skin, explains Chrissy Arsenault, a registered dietitian in Indianapolis. “I think kale is delicious in a salad or smoothie, but my absolute favorite way to prepare it is making kale chips,” she explains. “Just drizzle fresh kale with olive oil and dust it with a pinch of salt, then put it in the oven for 15 minutes at 350°F. They’ll come out crunchy and delicious!”

Oranges

Another Vitamin C powerhouse! “Oranges and other citrus fruits are high in carotenoids, compounds that protect your skin from UV light to keep it firm and prevent wrinkles,” Arsenault explains. Oranges are also excellent self-contained snacks that are easy to throw in your bag and take on the go without a mess.

Eggs

Eggs, especially the yolk are a rich source of choline, a nutrient, which can help to support our brain and memory function as we age. They also contain biotin, which promotes hair and scalp health. Nikkel says that hard-boiled eggs are a low-calorie and nutritious snack.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are a great source of antioxidants such as carotenoids, which aid in anti-aging by reducing skin damage caused by the sun, illness, and smoking and alcohol consumption. Different ways you can enjoy bell peppers is by chopping them up in a salad, sautéing them in a veggie omelet, or chicken fajita pasta with bell peppers.

Broccoli

These green stalks, and their leaves, are a great source of vitamin C, which helps with anti-aging by playing a role in connective tissue healing and collagen. “Some fun ways to add broccoli in your diet is by making a chicken and broccoli stir fry, cheesy garlic broccoli as a side, or by adding it to a soup,” Brikho suggests.

Papaya

This tropical fruit naturally contains the enzymes papain, and chymopapain. “These enzymes help to support digestion which in return supports gut health,” adds Nikkel. She says to try making a tropical fruit salad full of papaya, pineapple, and mango for a healthy source of nutrients throughout the week.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes contain an antioxidant called beta-carotene, which helps with anti-aging. And this antioxidant converts to vitamin A, which has been shown to improve facial wrinkles and skin elasticity. “Some delicious ways to add sweet potatoes into your diet are by making a loaded baked sweet potato, oven-roasted sweet potatoes as a side, or sweet potato brownies, if you are craving dessert,” says Brikho.

Walnuts

These tasty nuts are a plant-based source of omega 3 fatty acids, which help to support our cognitive function as we age. “Walnuts can be enjoyed as part of a tasty trail mix, mixed into salads for a satisfying crunch or sprinkled on top of oatmeal.

Strawberries

These delicious red berries are full of antioxidants – nutrients that can help to reduce and combat the damage done to our body’s cells by free radicals. And free radicals explain Nikkel, are naturally occurring by-products that occur as a result of our daily lives. Add this anti-aging food to your savory breakfasts of oatmeal, waffles, or pancakes for an antioxidant-rich meal.

Reference: docdoc.com, parade.com