As we get older, the skin ages too. This article looks at the ways in which we can defy skin aging and retain our youthful complexions for as long as possible.

Know the Common Signs of Skin Aging

Different people will show different signs of aging at different times in their lives.

For a person who is in his or her mid-late 20s, the skin is generally in good condition but some signs of skin aging may appear. Depending on the persons lifestyle, some of these signs could include dry or rough skin, blotchy skin, darkened and dull skin or an uneven skin tone

For a person in his or her late 20s or 30s, more signs of skin aging may appear. These could include loose skin, larger pores or even fine line and wrinkles.

For a person in his or her 40s, deeper expression lines, frown lines on the forehead, more obvious wrinkles and crows feet may appear. The skin may appear more sallow and less firm.

For a person in his or her 50s and 60s, deep wrinkles and folds of skin may appear. The skin becomes more dry and rough. Age spots may also appear.

Understand the Cause of Skin Aging

Skin aging is 90% of the time due to sun damage and 10% due to genetic factors.

Intrinsic or biological aging is due to genetic factors. The intrinsic factors are the slow down of skin turnover, decreased collagen and sebum production.

Extrinsic or photo aging is also called sun-induced skin aging and therefore largely preventable. Sun damage is accumulated a little each time there is an exposure to the burning rays of the sun. The damage is not immediately noticeable. Often one is not aware of the amount of sun damage accumulated until much later, years later in fact.

Never Too Early to Start Protecting Your Skin

Your skin starts to age from the time you were born! As sun damage is primary cause of skin aging, it is never too early to start protecting your skin from the burning rays of the sun. So always apply sunscreen lotion on yourself and your kids when you are outdoors. Prevention is always better than cure!

If you love to sun tan or an outdoors person, a good, strong sun cream is a must.

Stub out that Cigarette

Not only is smoking detrimental for your health, it is also bad for your skin. It reduces blood flow to the skin and causes the skin to look dry and sallow. Smoking further encourages wrinkles to develop around the mouth as smokers puckers their mouth and crows feet around the eye due to squinting to avoid the smoke.

Other Anti Aging Skin Care Tips

Other anti aging skin care tips include:

• Having a healthy life style
• Drink in moderation
• Cut down on your caffeine in take
• Exercise to improve your blood circulation
• Reduce or manage the stress level in your life
• Have sufficient sleep each night
• Last but not least, maintain a good skin care routine

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