Tips For Having Youthful Skin

If you had the choice between old and haggard skin and youthful and glowy skin, we’re pretty sure we know which one you’d choose. 

After all, who doesn’t want a young-looking complexion? It’s pretty much the ultimate skin goal. 

If you want this type of skin even as you age, it’s going to take some serious effort. Thankfully, there are a number of tips and tricks you can use to keep your face looking healthy and fresh.

What to Know About Aging Skin

Before we dive into keeping your skin looking youthful, it’s helpful to know a bit about what happens to your complexion as you age. 

As we get older, our epidermis (that’s the top layer of your skin) gets thinner. This is what causes skin to start looking like a crepe.  

Elasticity also starts to diminish, so you may notice wrinkles forming. And the fun doesn’t stop there! The amount of pigment-carrying cells decreases and age spots may pop up.

Wondering what causes all this? There’re actually two different types of aging — intrinsic and extrinsic. 

Intrinsic skin aging is the natural aging process. In other words, it’s difficult to prevent. Genetics factor into when intrinsic aging begins. 

You have more control over extrinsic aging, which has to do with lifestyle choices that may lead to premature aging — like staying out in the sun too long or eating poorly. 

Both types of aging can lead to thinner skin, brown spots, wrinkles and fine lines, fragile blood vessels and dry skin.

Tips For Getting Youthful Skin

Now that you understand what can make your skin look older, it’s time to get a grasp on what can give you the youthful complexion of your dreams. 

If you already spot signs of aging, these tricks may help prevent further issues. No visible signs of aging yet? Lucky you. Consider these preventative measures. 

Prioritize Hydrated Skin

Thirsty skin has a tendency to look a bit more wrinkled and dull. So, staying hydrated is important. 

There are a few important ways to keep your skin hydrated. First, drink plenty of water. While we’re on the subject of drinking, try not to overindulge in booze — it can dehydrate you.

Another important way to keep skin hydrated is by applying moisturizer in the morning and at night. Hims offers a moisturizer for men meant for everyday use that can make your skin look better. 

Never Skip Sunscreen

Go ahead, fake it — your tan, that is. When you bake in the sun, your skin is damaged on all levels. 

This damage extends to your collagen elastin fibers, which help the elasticity in your skin. Without that elasticity, you’re more likely to sag and wrinkle. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s ideal to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. 

You should use it every day and should reapply it if you are in direct sunlight for long periods of time. 

Even if it doesn’t look sunny, put SPF on — UV rays can break through clouds. 

Beyond slathering on sunscreen, protective clothing (like a hat and sunglasses) can help block your skin from harmful rays. 

It’s also important to note that wearing daily sunscreen can help protect you from skin cancer.

Embrace Anti-Aging Products

There are creams and serums specifically made with ingredients that can reduce signs of aging. So, you may as well take advantage of them! 

Two common anti-aging ingredients: retinol and tretinoin. Both are cell regulators. 

Retinol and tretinoin increase collagen production. Collagen can add plumpness to skin and reduce wrinkles. Hims has an anti-aging cream that contains both of these powerful ingredients. 

Eye cream is another product worth considering, especially if you notice under-eye circles or wrinkles in that area. 

A small clinical trial tracked 77 users of eye cream over a four-week span and found that the appearance of wrinkles in that area was improved. 

If you want to address dark circles, look for a product with caffeine or vitamin K. A small study of 11 women found that those active ingredients can help mitigate under-eye circles.

Consider In-Office Treatments 

There are a few things that can be done in a medical setting that can help give you a more youthful look. 

First, you could try a chemical peel. There are three levels of peels — mild, medium and major — and all must be performed by a healthcare professional.

The professional will apply the peel, which will resurface the top layer of your skin and encourage regeneration of new skin.

Another option is Botox®, which is injected into areas of your face to paralyze muscles that cause wrinkles. 

One common area for injections is between eyebrows (known as the 11 lines), the forehead and crow’s feet. The effects of Botox last up to four months before you’ll need another injection.

Make Your Lifestyle Work For Your Skin

There are factors that contribute to aging that go beyond what you put on (or in) your skin. Follow these lifestyle rules and you’ll be on your way to more youthful-looking skin: 

• Don’t smoke. Beyond a litany of other risks — including increasing your risk of cancer — people who smoke cigarettes have a tendency to have more wrinkles.

• Eat a balanced diet. According to research, eating lots of fruits and vegetables may prevent premature skin aging.

• Sweat it out. Regular exercise can increase circulation and boost immunity. Both of these things can make your skin look more youthful.

Tapping in to Youthful Skin: The Bottom Line

If you want to have a youthful complexion, you’ll want to address or prevent things that may be causing your skin.

From keeping your skin hydrated to living more healthfully to preventing sun damage and incorporating anti-aging skin care products into your regimen, there are a number of ways to get the skin you long for.

If you’d like advice tailored to your specific skin situation, consider a consultation with a healthcare professional. 

They’ll be able to review your skin health and give you specific instructions on how to get a more youthful appearance.