SKIN CARE OVER 35

As our skin begins to age, it loses its firmness and elasticity. Collagen and elastin begin to break down, and the skin wrinkles and sags. If this process goes on too long without good quality skin care, the only other options will be more invasive surgical procedures.

Adopting and investing in a high-quality skin care (home care) regimen is the only way to hold back the hands of time and slow the aging process. We want to begin good home care practices day and night as soon as possible, in our 20s, but if it’s never crossed your mind until now, then now is the right time!

After the age of 35, the body functions begin to slow down. Metabolism is not as quick as it used to be, and we hold onto fat and can’t process sugar as well anymore. It’s important to remain active throughout our entire lifetime so the body can continue to filter and flush toxins and waste out of the body. When we are sedentary and don’t move our bodies, toxins and free radicals build up in the cells and cause significant damage to the organs and skin.

Free Radicals are toxic byproducts of oxygen metabolism that can cause significant damage to living cells and tissues in a process called “oxidative stress.” The body’s vitamins and minerals, which counteract oxidative stress, are called antioxidants. This is why we want to incorporate as many antioxidants into our diet (internal) and skin care (external) daily as possible. This is how you keep a youthful, radiant glow for many years.

Common antioxidants found in skin care are:
-Vitamin C
-Retinol (Vitamin A)
-Vitamin E
-Resveratrol
-Coenzyme Q10
-Niacinamide
-Polyphenols
-Flavanoids

My favorite way to use these ingredients in skin care is through serums. Serums are the fastest, most effective way to get these antioxidants down deep into the living layers of the skin. The molecule is much smaller in a serum, so it can penetrate much faster and deeper into the skin and quickly generate excellent, visible results.

Some of my go-to serums will always be Vitamin A (Retinol) and Vitamin C. I also make sure I take high amounts of Vitamin C orally every day. I take about 1,500mg – 2,000mg a day, even more if I am adding in the fruits I eat that are high in it. The body will only use what it needs with this vitamin (not all vitamins are like this, some are stored in the body and can cause a problem if you are taking too much, so do your research and speak with your doctor) so whatever it does not need, it will flush it out. I also make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

My favorite Vitamin C serum to use topically is Spin Trap.
Vitamin C used topically has a natural SPF factor, so you should use it during the day, not at night. The SPF is very light, so you should follow up and layer it with at least a 15SPF, such as DAY TREATMENT LOTION.

It’s excellent for reducing signs of aging or clearing up acne, including cystic and hormonal acne. Essential for even, smooth, youthful skin, vitamin A is often used with other AHA brighteners for maximum results.

If you are starting with Retinols, you want to begin slowly and gently, gradually working your way up in strength. I always recommend my clients use Level 1 DERMA GEL to start. This formula has:

Retinyl Propionate (Vitamin A): The most effective non-prescription retinoid available. It helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while protecting from further photo-aging and free radical damage.

Kojic Acid: Brightens and protects against sun damage.

Lactic Acid: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) derived from fermented milk. Gentler than other AHAs. Exfoliates dead skin, encourages cell renewal, regulates pH, and acts as a moisture binder.

Glycine: A naturally occurring amino acid and an essential building block of proteins.

Urea: Promotes rehydration in skin.

Niacinamide: A water-soluble form of Vitamin B with firming effect and anti-inflammatory properties.

The moisturizers in this level one Vitamin A serum help protect skin new to retinol, allowing it to acclimate first. After your skin has become used to this product, we will boost the concentration, always challenging the skin to create collagen, brighten dull complexions, and continue to exfoliate.

If you have any questions regarding AHA’s or Antioxidants, contact me.

Are you familiar with Vitamin A and other antioxidants? Which ones are some of your favorites?