Of course, skin naturally ages with time and there’s no turning back the clock. But there are ways to slow down the aging process while simultaneously protecting your skin, too. Did you know that the skin is the body’s largest organ? Educate yourself on how to protect it!

The number one contributor to aging skin is…

You’ve heard it before for sure and there’s just no getting around or away from this one… The SUN is the number one contributor to aging skin. Free radicals are absorbed into the skin from the sun, can damage DNA, create age spots and wrinkles, and depress the immune system increasing the risk of skin cancer. If that doesn’t convince you to take a few moments out of your day to put on some sun-block…

Sun protection is key!

Not all sunscreens are created equal. There are two types of sunscreen: organic and inorganic. Don't be confused by the words, because nowadays organic is a desirable product, but not with sun protection. Inorganic sunscreens are also called physical sunscreens. In the case of sunscreens, organic does not mean the sunscreens are naturally produced. Rather, an organic sunscreen is one that is composed of carbon and hydrogen, among other things.

Organic sunscreens are absorbed into the skin to some extent but most organic sunscreens block only UVB rays. Organic sunscreens absorb the sun's radiation and the body must get rid of it. It gets rid of it by creating free radicals, which we know can wreak havoc on the skin and the body.

Inorganic sunscreens, referred to as "physical" sunscreens, contain inert microscopic solid minerals, the most common being zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Most physical sunscreens are now microfine and with particles so small they are almost clear, unlike the thick white paste in the past. Titanium dioxide blocks some UVA and most UVB rays. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide lay on top of the skin and are not absorbed into the body. They work by reflecting the ultraviolet rays from the sun, which is what we want!

The second contributor to aging skin is…

Diet and lifestyle influence skin’s health more than you can imagine. We really are what we eat! Foods that are high in sugar, artificial flavors and colors, and are filled with greasy oils, etc. will only exacerbate existing skin conditions if not create new ones.

Eat Smart!

When we eat foods high in vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants, our organs are rejuvenated. When we eat foods filled with chemicals that are liver needs to work hard in order process out the toxins, our body is stressed. Stress creates aging.  In addition, many people have food sensitivities that they may not be aware of; food sensitivities may also contribute to unhealthy skin.

The third contributor to aging skin is…

Whether it’s your skin or even your car, to protect and preserve something, you need to give it proper care and attention. Poor skin care habits are the third contributor to aging skin but they’re probably the easiest to remedy. Some people just don't know how to properly care for their skin, while others use products that are damaging to the skin. Becoming better educated on how to take care of your skin will help to keep it healthy and vibrant. Seeking the guidance and assistance from a licensed skin care professional can help you learn how to slow down the aging process, heal damaged skin and achieve healthier skin, too.

Consider natural skin care treatment.

Using nontoxic skin care products is just one way to help keep your skin healthy, by avoiding harsh chemicals in many cosmetics, for example, that can be found in your local convenience store. In addition, a quality home care plan can help your skin to feel renewed and healthy on a daily basis. For the face, a skin care cosmetic, such as Colorescience mineral sunscreen serves as a high performance product, created to help keep the skin clear and protect it from the damaging effects of the sun and environment. 

If you want to learn more about how to achieve healthy, vibrant skin and reduce the signs of aging, please contact the Northport Wellness Center at (631) 262-8505 or visit www.northportwellnesscenter.com.