Slow ageing down, whatever are you talking about? Well, there is nothing quite like that moment you spot your first wrinkle or a gray hair. There are a bunch of simple changes you can make that are practical and effective at counteracting the effects of ageing.

Slow ageing quickly and effectively

The first step to slow ageing down is to change the way you look at your skin. Your skin is your bodies first defense against external aggressors. Your skin is also the largest organ of your body and deserves some love and attention. Here are simple but effective ways in which you can slow ageing at home.

Lifestyle changes to slow ageing down

No more smoking.

Smoking causes an oxidation reaction on the surface of the skin; these decreases the skin’s innate ability to ward off damaging factors such as bacteria ageing changes and results in a more wrinkled and aged appearance.

Keep it hydrated.

Invest in a high-quality cosmeceutical moisturiser. Ingredients to keep an eye out for are hyaluronic acid such as Lamelle Correctives Hydrating HA Serum and peptides such as Neostrata Enlightening Illuminating Serum —both of these will help decrease water loss in the skin and assist in maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Don’t be tempted to overwash or over exfoliate the skin this can strip the natural protective barrier of the skin.

Reduce your stress levels.

Chronic stress causes the inflammatory signals to be released into the body, this, in turn, has been shown to worsen acne, eczema, and the general skin functioning and appearance. Sleeping on the other hand releases melatonin, the body’s own antioxidant. Relaxing allows your body to rest and helps your skin cells to repair and regenerate.

Stop staring at screens so much.

Consider a digital detox. Constant scrolling on phone and computer screens means constant exposure to radiation. LED displays with a bright background light cause dark circles under the eyes and increase crepe-like texture in delicate skin. Yes, you can even get pigmentation from your computer screen.

Dietary changes to slow ageing

Limit your sugar intake.

When you ingest sugar or high-glycemic foods your body rapidly converts it to sugar which raises your insulin levels. Simple carbohydrates, like refined sugar, white bread, and soda, cause your insulin levels to spike, which leads to a burst of inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation produces enzymes which break down collagen and elastin, resulting in sagging skin and wrinkles, a process known as AGES. Digested sugar permanently attaches to the collagen in your skin through a process known as glycation. Aside from increasing the effects of ageing, glycation can also exacerbate skin conditions like acne and rosacea.

Skincare changes to slow ageing in its tracks

Wear sunscreen all the time.

Sunscreen protects your skin from continuous damage through ultraviolet radiation. It will give your skin the opportunity to ward off pigmentation, sunburn and premature ageing.

Retinol’s are a must at night.

Retinol is a staple anti-ageing ingredient that stimulates healthy collagen production to strengthen the skin foundation to resist wrinkling. High-quality, homecare retinol products are readily available from your nearest skin care centre and should be recommended by a therapist to ensure you get the correct dosage.