From the Viva Cryo archive. Originally published 2022-01-25. This article preserves the original historical text. For current treatment information, book a consultation.
In today’s world, there’s a sea of information, products and treatments available to the general public, so it can be taxing and difficult to know what works, what doesn’t and what is just a straight up scam.
For starters, yes, genetics do play a factor in aging among other external factors. However, this doesn’t mean you’re going to become a dried up looking prune no matter what you do.
But it’s important to note, we cannot change the process of natural aging. Over time, our skin continues to oxidize which causes wrinkle production, visible lines, loss of suppleness and loss of fullness. It’s preventative action that’s key- there’s plenty that can be done to delay premature aging.
Here’s some of our recommendations for preventative action:
1) Hydration Nation
Drinking water is your best friend when it comes to your skin. Not only does drinking water help cleanse your pores and flush out toxins but will also hydrate and maintain your skin’s elasticity. Not all water is created equal too so consider drinking alkaline water or water with a pH level of 7.4 or higher. For example, my favorite water brand is Essentia, which advertises a pH level of 9.5 or higher.
2) Stay out of the Sun
Make sure to wear sunblock because the sun can be quite damaging to your skin, especially for long periods of time outside as UV rays can accelerate premature aging. Make sure to always wear 50 SPF sunblock. Also, consider wearing a hat or an umbrella if your skin is on the more sensitive side or has less melanin.
My favorite brand of face sunblock is by La Roche Posay.
3) You are What You Eat
Consuming sugar and refined carbohydrates can accelerate the aging process when integrating with protein. It causes the formation of Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), also known as glycotoxins, which can create inflammation and chronic disease in the body. It’s best to have a healthy diet with water-rich and mineral-rich foods.
4) Quit Smoking
Nicotine, among other chemicals, typically will make blood vessels narrow, reducing oxygen flow and nutrients to skin cells. This alone will cause skin to age faster as well as the constant, repetitive facial expressions that contract over the years due to smoking.
5) Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is a diuretic, as it removes fluid from the body, causing dehydration and symptoms such as tissue inflammation, puffiness, dryness, sagging and wrinkled skin.
Just look at stars like Jennifer Lopez (JLo), Blake Lively and Jennifer Hudson. They don’t drink alcohol and they all have great skin and look fabulous.
As enjoyable as it is, it’s best to consume in controlled amounts and/or at your own caution, if you want to keep your skin in check.
Food for thought.
6) Exercise
Can we really say more about this? Exercise is amazing because it will increase blood flow, which helps to carry more oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, improving circulation, your immunity and more.
7) Facial Massage
Facial massage is pertinent. Not only will this increase blood flow and promote oxygen flow but also results in decreased swelling and puffiness while increasing collagen production, which prevents wrinkle formation.
The Lymphatic Facial Massage Celebs Swear By
8) Facials
Yes, this is so important! Always make sure to cleanse and care for your face- what better way than to get your facials!
Our Cryo & LED facials will reduce the appearance of fine lines and age spots along with tightening the skin, brightening it and well as tightening pores by immediately improving collagen production, refining the skin’s appearance and strengthening the skin.
Our Fave Facial Recommendations
9) Find a Good Serum
Yes, yes and yes!
There are plenty out there with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. These tend to work fabulously well with prevention. If you have more defined lines, then look for serums that contain Retinol.
Best Products Ever by Thuyen Nguyen, Celebrity Facialist
10) Moisturize, moisturize moisturize!
Always and forever!