Healthy, Glowing Skin at Any Age
Words by Katherine C. Eustaquio
Published in Total Fitness Magazine March 2011 issue
If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then the skin acts as the walls that surround it. The skin bears the reminders of the decades that have passed—the promise of youth, the glow of pregnancy, the unwelcome signs of stress and age spots—like hieroglyphics on cave walls. Healthy skin knows no age. It knows proper skin care. Here are a few tricks of the trade:
Cut Down on Sun Exposure
The sun may cause living things to grow but excessive exposure can cause your skin to age drastically. Apart from wearing sun protection and putting on sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, avoid getting out in the sun from 10 AM to 4 PM when the sun is at its harshest.
Appreciate Your Skin’s Natural Oils
Years down the road, you’ll thank your stars for having an oily skin that is less prone to wrinkles and sagging. Today, instead of scrubbing away the natural oils, use an oil blotter to keep the shine away without taking out the moisture. Bathing too often with harsh soaps can also dry your skin since oil production decreases as you age. Dry, itchy skin can also be the sign of an underactive thyroid gland. See your doctor about it.
Acne in your 30s
Fluctuating hormone levels can result in adult acne that appears more inflamed compared to teen acne. Most dermatologists prescribe Retin-A and benzoyl peroxide for treatment. Eczema, which is characterized by irritated and dry skin, is a common skin problem among adults. Dermatologists prescribe corticosteroid for topical treatment and the use of fragrance-free cleanser to avoid further irritation.
Skin Problems during Pregnancy
The high level of estrogen is the logic behind a pregnant woman’s legendary glow. However, hormonal changes during this stage also come with a bad side: Melasma (dark spots on the face that usually fade after pregnancy) and a rash called PUPP (Pruritic urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy). To relieve PUPP itch, use moisturizer, cool baths and/or an oral antihistamine.
Anti-flares for Flares
Rosacea, which is characterized by reddish and inflamed spider-like blood vessels, is a common skin condition triggered by stress, humidity, alcohol, spicy food, and aging. Go for sensitive skin products and anti-redness serums that contain caffeine to help ease the redness. If you need a quick fix, cover it up with a green-tinted base.
Look out for Problem Spots
Women in their 40s often develop red, flaky spots on the cheeks and forehead called Developactinic Keratosis as a result of sun damage. When left untreated, they can turn malignant. Seborrheic Keratosis (yellow-brown wart-like growths) and Cutaneous Papilloma (commonly known as “skin tag”, it is a small piece of excess or hanging skin usually found in the neck, underarm and groin) are also at this stage. They are usually benign but it’s best to consult your doctor about it.
Maintain a Healthy, Vibrant Lifestyle
A good night’s sleep, a balanced diet rich in healthy fats and vitamin C and an active lifestyle are the three main things you need to remember if you’re serious about achieving and maintaining a healthy glowing complexion at any age. Don’t wait until the last minute to switch to a healthier lifestyle.
