The secret to younger looking skin is less dramatic than you think

What causes skin ageing?

Creating younger-looking skin doesn’t have to involve drastic measures. Thanks to modern technology, you can see big results from non-invasive procedures such as anti wrinkle treatments, skin tightening and improved your complexion. Along with creating good lifestyle habits to limit future skin ageing, there are ways to help you turn back the clock and tighten your skin. The secret to younger looking skin is less dramatic than you think!

Skin is our body’s first line of defense against external environmental factors and a reflection of our own internal environment. The appearance, characteristics and functionality of skin changes as we age; it loses elasticity and wrinkles form as it becomes noticeably thinner and drier.

Although we can’t influence our genetics or the natural ageing process that causes reduced collagen production and slower cell renewal, there are some simple ways to prevent and reverse the effects of aging for younger, healthier looking skin.

Lifestyle habits for youthful skin

UV rays – It’s no secret that sun exposure contributes up to 80% of skin ageing. Tanning occurs because the sun’s UV rays have injured the top layer of your epidermis and caused an increase in melanin production in an attempt to protect the skin. Wrinkles, lines and sun spots are an accumulation of this microscopic damage caused by the UV rays. The best way to prevent further damage and premature skin ageing is to always wear sunscreen of SPF 30+ or above.

Skin cell hydration –Our bodies are more than 70% water and while it’s imperative to keep hydrated by drinking at least 2L per day for overall health, water alone won’t have a visible effect on our skin. According to leading dermatologists, eating foods that are rich in essential fatty acids will help to keep your skin cells hydrated. Our Body Catalyst clinical and wellness therapist and nutritionist Amy McKendrick recommends consuming oily fish such as salmon (omega 3), flaxseeds and flaxseed oil (omega 3, 6 and 9), olive oil, walnuts and avocado to keep your skin cells healthy and hydrated.

Skin microbiomes – Did you know that your skin is more alive than you think? In fact, it is home to more than 500 species of bacteria. Before panicking and reaching for the hand sanitizer, know that just like in our gut, many of these are good bacteria that help to protect and defend your body. These good guys prevent bad bugs from invading our body and causing inflammation. They also keep our skin young by maintaining an acidic skin environment (approx. 5 pH) which helps to preserve collagen levels. Recent studies have even shown that certain strands of skin bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis) fight against skin cancer by producing a chemical compound (6-HAP) that has the potential to suppress the development of UV-induced skin tumors. Healthy and youthful skin means keeping these ecosystems of bacteria balanced. You can look after this essential skin bacteria by using pH balanced products and not over cleansing or exfoliating.

The modern-day secret to younger looking skin

Anti-ageing skin care – Just like a sponge soaking up water, our skin will absorb moisture from the products we apply to stay soft and supple. If you are concerned about ageing in the skin, you can tailor a routine with hydrating ingredients and antioxidants, formulated to prevent ageing. Opt for a cream or milk cleanser to avoid stripping essential moisture from the skin and to maintain the skin microbiomes that protect your skin. For best results, invest in dermatologically approved serums and moisturisers that are pH balanced (for happy skin microbiomes) with active ingredients. There is no ‘right’ age to start using anti-ageing skincare, but many beauty therapists suggest that anyone over the age of twenty-five begins a preventative daily care routine.

Radio frequency – Radio frequency or RF is a non-invasive technology that uses gentle heat and massage to stimulate collagen production and smooth the skin. The energy penetrates the layers of the skin to selectively heat the tissue and cause an immediate contraction of collagen fibers and increase the metabolism of the fibroblast cells (where collagen is produced). This accelerates production of new collagen and elastic fibers for a tightening effect. It is a clinically proven, low risk treatment that works on most areas of the body to smooth and tighten loose skin, reduce the depth of lines and wrinkles and diminish the appearance of cellulite. This treatment is especially popular to produce a face-lift like effect without surgery or recovery time.

To learn more about how Body Catalyst body shaping experts can support your journey to younger looking skin with radio frequency treatments and nutrition advice, click here to book your complimentary consultation with one of our qualified body experts.