Most people are born with a beautiful complexion. However, what you do and how you take care of yourself and your skin will affect how young you appear.
A generation ago, sagging and wrinkled skin were commonly equated with the then-current understanding of aging. A woman of 40 or 50 was expected to look weathered and aged. Today, it is know that the conditions frequently associated with aging are not the result of genetic or hormonal programming - otherwise known as intrinsic factors. They actually are primarily the result of the opposite, called extrinsic factors. The most significant of these is – you guessed it – exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, as in the sun and tanning booths. Other extrinsic influences include environmental pollution, stress and nutritional choices. Even the breakdown of collagen and elastic tissue in the skin that is concurrent with menopause may largely be the result of free radical assault – which is extrinsic – rather than purely the decline of estrogen production, as once assumed.
The current medical thinking today is that if humans ate healthfully, were sheltered from environmental toxins, got adequate exercise and rest, and spent most of their lives away from the sun, their skin would look and feel plump, moist, firm and unlined well into their 60’s and 70’s. But is this anyone’s idea of fun?!!
- Is it ever too late to start an anti-aging lifestyle? Absolutely not!! There are many changes that one can make in order to reverse the aging process. Remember that age is, in many ways, a state of mind. Here are a few factors in understanding the anti-aging lifestyle:
- Over-activation of the immune system – such as from an infection, allergy or toxin – can lead to an internal inflammation at the cellular level. In addition, poor nutrition, too little sleep, and radiation (including sunlight) are common culprits of low-grade inflammation, which has been linked to arthritis, wrinkles, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease.
- Lifestyle: What we eat (too much sugar, fat, sodium), drink (too many sodas, juices and caffeinated beverages), do (get overstressed, work too much), don’t do (exercise or sleep enough) and what we expose ourselves to can either speed up or slow down the aging process, the degree of inflammation and chronic disease.
- Hormones: Levels of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, thyroid and/or human growth hormone drop as we age. By balancing these all-important biochemicals, it may be possible to improve health and forestall the aging process. A controversial approach, hormone therapy requires oversight by an experienced physician.
- Anti-Oxidants: As we get older, we are more subject to oxidative stress. This is the byproduct of free-radical damage in which unstable molecules disrupt cell and tissue function. Antioxidants such as Vitamin C, E , CoEnzyme Q10 and others can help protect cells.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Recent studies show that 99% of Americans do not get enough omega 3’s in their diet. Symptoms of omega-3 deficiency include fatigue, dry skin, brittle hair and nails, constipation, joint pain and depression. Sound familiar? We all know that omega-3 can be found in salmon, but supplements are another way to get your daily dose.
To help reverse some of the environmental damage to our skin, we also have cosmetic lasers. These have evolved to become one of the hottest modalities in the quest for smooth, younger-looking skin. They not only treat existing problems but they can also help prevent the onset or advancement of certain conditions, such as wrinkles, rosacea or sagging skin. The Polaris and ReFirme anti-wrinkle laser systems, are revolutionary new technologies that offer a safe and effective solution for smoothing fine lines, deeper wrinkles and firming the skin.
No matter how many candles on our birthday cakes, we want to age as healthfully and happily as possible. Call us for a free skin consultation with one of our nurse specialists to learn how any of our treatments can help you look younger!
Dr Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank, CA and offers extensive procedures in cosmetic skin care, using the latest and most up-to-date lasers and medical equipment. She is known for her exceptional care and service.
Lisa Benest M.D.
1624 W. Olive, Suite B
Burbank, CA 91506
(818)729-9149
www.lisabenestmd.com
For permission to reprint this article in full or in part, contact info2006@lisabenestmd.com
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