5 Things to Do in Your 30s to Look Better in Your 40s
You don’t act your age, so why should you look your age? Send Father Time packing with these 5 skin care tips from our expert team.
In your 30s, you’ll start to see the early signs of aging – fine lines, loss of volume, pigmentation from sun damage. There are a lot of factors at play, some you can control and some you can’t. By establishing good habits now, it will be that much easier to stick with them and make adjustments along the way to stay on top of changes. You know your skin better than anyone else, but don’t be afraid to ask for help – particularly if your current regimens aren’t working as well as they used to. In this multi-part blog series, we’ll shed some light on good habits you can develop now to look better in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.
Sunscreen…
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and the number of cases continues to rise. Multiple episodes of severe sunburn before the age of 18 can have dire consequences later in life, and although you can’t turn back time, you can be proactive about avoiding future sun damage. Cumulative sun exposure is responsible mainly for basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers – both highly curable forms of cancer. If you haven’t already, arrange for a baseline skin check with your dermatologist, and if you notice any concerning changes in your skin, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.
…and More Sunscreen
It’s worth repeating: Sun exposure accelerates the effects of aging, breaking down the fibers of the skin known as elastin, and is responsible for most of the wrinkles and age spots on our faces. The good news is that it’s never too late to start taking care of your skin. Start by choosing cosmetics that offer UV protection, and avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. – the hours of peak radiation. If you do venture out, be sure to use sunblock with a minimum SPF of 30, and apply it at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two to three hours, or more frequently if swimming.
Commit to a Skincare Routine
When it comes to skincare, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach. Everyone has different needs – environment, skin type, stress, and genetics all play a role. If you’ve been using a cleanser designed for oily or acne-prone skin since your 20s, it may be time to reassess. AW Plastic Surgery offers a full line of clinically proven, medical-grade skincare products from Skinceuticals, Dermaceutic, and the ground-breaking SENTÉ line. Shop online, or schedule a consultation.
PRO TIP: Find a skincare regimen you can stick to. If you’re not willing to adopt a five-step, twice-daily routine, be realistic about what you are willing to commit to. At minimum, you’ll need a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
Establish Healthful Habits
Stay Hydrated
Aside from muscle pain, fatigue, and heat exhaustion, dehydration compromises the skin’s elasticity, accentuating the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Water can help flush out certain types of toxins that result in clogged pores and lead to pimples and acne. The Mayo Clinic recommends 11.5 cups of water per day for women, and 15.5 cups for men.
Get Enough (Quality) Sleep
Sufficient sleep is another easy, inexpensive way to slow the effects of aging. Skin repairs itself overnight by producing collagen, which keeps the face looking fuller, and even just one night of inadequate sleep can result in under-eye circles, drooping eyelids, and paler skin. Remember, too, that although alcohol may make you feel sleepy, it will have a negative effect on the quality of your sleep.
Cut Back on Processed Foods and Empty Calories
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other whole, plant-based foods helps regulate inflammation, and the addition of fish, lean proteins, and healthy fats will ensure you get adequate amounts of vitamins and antioxidants. Making good choices isn’t always easy – the best diet is one you can stick to – so don’t deprive yourself of the occasional indulgence.
Commit to a Fitness Routine
Aside from the glow you see in the mirror after a heart-pumping workout, exercise raises your heart rate and increases blood flow, carrying oxygen and nutrients to every cell of the body. When we say “fitness routine,” we’re not talking about a triathlon. As with making smart food choices, moderation is key. Find something you enjoy (or at least tolerate) so that you’re more likely to make it part of your daily routine.
A Little Help from Your Friends
There are a number of surgical and non-surgical procedures designed specifically to mitigate the effects of aging. Dermal fillers can be used to replace collagen and elastin as they begin to break down, reducing the appearance of fine lines, while injectables such as Botox® and Dysport® combine microneedling with topical serums to tighten and smooth the skin.
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