The 40s can be the new 20s if you follow these skincare rules

Everyone I know wants seeks ways to look younger for as long as possible but not many are willing to go under the knife or spend money on laser treatments. The trick is to look younger naturally. Is it possible for a 40 year old to turn back the clock with natural remedies and look younger than they really are? With these tips and tricks, the 40s could just be the new 20s.

#1 Avoid the sun

As much as we love our beach holidays and sun-kissed tan, exposure to the sun does more damage to your skin than you care to consider. Wrinkles, lines, sagging skin, brown spots are pigmentation all bear the mark of excess sun exposure. Plus when you are in your 40s, elastin and collagen are already damaged enough to highlight these damages. Limiting your exposure to the sun can prevent further damage from being done.

Besides using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, topping up with oral sunscreen can help to ensure all-rounded protection. Complement these with antioxidants such as Vitamin C to protect your skin from sun damage and free radical damage. Don’t forget your broadbrimmed hat when you are out in the sun to act as a physical barrier from the sun’s rays.

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#2 Smooth lines with retinol

Studies have found retinol aka Vitamin A to be effective on treating brown spots and fine lines thanks to their ability to increase collagen production, and as we all know smooth skin isn’t possible without collagen.

It may be true that retinol may be a little tricky to incorporate into your skincare regime as it’s known to cause redness and flakiness but once your skin has built tolerance towards it over time, the benefits speak for themselves and you will enjoy smoother, more youthful skin.

#3 Get your Zzz’s

This is one of the easiest new habit to incorporate. Who can say no to a good night’s sleep? Besides feeling well rested, adequate rest shows on your face in the form of brighter, glowing complexion and less puffy eyes.

Besides clocking in at least 8 hours of sleep every night, be sure to keep devices like your mobile, TV and laptop away at least one hour before you retire for the evening.

Read more: How EXACTLY is Jennifer Aniston Looking Better at 51, Than She Was at 31?

#4 Exfoliate to reveal younger skin

Ever wondered why your skin seems to lose its youthful glow and smoothness as you get older? The answer lies simply in slower skin turnover as you age. With dead skin cells accumulated on your skin, skin naturally looks dull and feels rough.

A good exfoliation on a regular basis, be it physically or chemically is a good way to help slough off the dead skin cells built up on your skin, allowing your inner glow to radiate through and also for other skincare products to work better for your skin.

#5 Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise

As we age, our skin feels drier and fine lines and wrinkles become more prominent. Moisturisers are a quick and effective way to help one appear younger.

Hydrators such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin work by accumulating water inside your skin for a more supple appearance. Facial oils are another great option for mature skin as they not only hydrate the skin, they are also rich in antioxidants that fight free radical damage and keep the outer layers of the skin soft.