MY THREE MONTH ANTI AGEING JOURNEY THESE DAYS, YOU CAN’T OPEN A MAGAZINE OR TURN ON THE TV WITHOUT SEEING A SMOOTH-FACED MIDDLE-AGED ACTRESS OR MODEL TOUTING SKIN CARE PRODUCTS THAT CAN “REVERSE THE CLOCK” ON AGING SKIN. “FREE RADICALS,” “ANTIOXIDANTS” AND “ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID” HAVE BECOME BUZZWORDS IN THE QUEST FOR ETERNALLY RADIANT SKIN.
W
hat are these “miracle” ingredients, and how do they work? Can they actually erase wrinkles, repair sun damage, or diminish age spots? I have asked myself this for years!
One thing I know for sure, at 43 years old… is SPF (Suncreen) makes me very happy! (And does wonders. More and more, skin-care and cosmetics companies are incorporating natural components such botanicals into their product lines, which is incredible but when we start with the SIMPLE fundamental steps in our routine, at a YOUNG age, we’re counting the clock back for our later years! The skin is the body ’s largest organ weighing approximately six pounds. It is constructed mainly of cells and tissues designed to be a barrier and protector of our organs and protect against the absorption of microorganisms, blocks radiation and also acts as a thermostat. Skin miraculously breathes, drinks and gives off carbon dioxide and has the ability to repair itself. Here the Skinny on my skin… (as a women in my40’s) - My daily, weekly and monthly must have/must do’s to improve my skin, and help with my anti-aging journey. Daily (morning and evening): cleanse, Toner and Moisturizer + SPF (40) @LaMer @AlumierMd @BiodermaUSA Monthly: Hydra Facials @Smooth Effects or @KelownaMedical Esthetics One of my favorite areas of skincare is Antioxidants for Sun Damage and Wrinkles being someone Antioxidants are natural substances made up of vitamins and minerals. They have the ability to fight “free radicals” -- unstable compounds that attack human cells and damage DNA. Damaged skin cells can lead to accelerated aging in the form of wrinkles, dry skin, dark circles
under eyes, dull skin, and more. Free radicals are in the air we breathe, the foods we eat, sunlight, and pollution; basically, just about everywhere. Eating foods rich in antioxidants is one way to ward them off. Another is to apply them on the skin, where they can seep underneath to strengthen skin cells and keep them healthy. The antioxidants most shown to repair damage and slow the aging process include: My favorites are Retinol: Vitamin A and its derivatives are powerful and proven anti-aging antioxidants. Retinol is a topical ingredient proven to promote collagen production and plump out skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It also improves skin tone and color, and reduces dark patches (hyperpigmentation) on the skin. Although retinol hydrates the lower layers of the skin, it sometimes causes the top layer (the epidermis) to become dry and flaky. Be sure to wear moisturizer and sunscreen when using it. AND, Vitamin C: As you age, your body slows down its production of collagen and elastin, which keeps skin strong, flexible, and resilient. Evidence suggests that the antioxidants found in vitamin C may stimulate the production of collagen and minimize fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Vitamin C is being added to skin-care products such as creams and lotions. I am a 40 year young female who cares about her skin, but does not want to be at the mercy of having to do anything and anytime to look my best! I want to enjoy the routine and enjoy the skincare journey. Amy Nicole Cohen Beauty Expert @AmyNicoleCohen
STAT E LY M AGA Z I N E
49