Slow down the ageing clock

Ageing is inevitable. Technically, we start to age the moment we are born. But that's the good part. We love growing up into a beautiful youthful adult. But what after that? We all want the clock to stop there and the time to freeze! This is not possible. But yes, we can delay the ageing process by following a good daily routine. So, here are ways to reduce premature skin ageing..

Protect your skin from the sun every day -UV rays, infrared rays and even visible rays are the most important factor causing skin ageing by changing the structure of skin at both gross and cellular level. Thorough protection of skin from sun rays is extremely essential step towards reducing premature skin ageing. Sun protection should be done using a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, every day on all the exposed areas not protected by clothing. Additionally before stepping out in the sun, cover your face with umbrella, scarf or broad brimmed hat. Try and Atay under shade whenever possible.

Cleanse your skin gently -Avoid scrubbing the skin as this may irritate the skin which in turn accelerates ageing.

Wash your face twice a day and after sweating heavily -Sweat contains lots of salts and toxins which irritate the skin. So wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating heavily.

Apply a moisturiser on face every day -Moisturiser helps in trading the water in our skin thus maintaining good skin hydration. A well hydrated skin gives one a more youthful appearance.

Stop using skin care products that sting or burn -If any skin care product is causing burning sensation, it means it is irritating your skin and damaging it. Such product should be stopped immediately.

Eat a healthy, well balanced diet -A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals which are important part of anti-oxidative pathway of our body. These anti- oxidants counteract the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species on cells, thus preventing cellular damage and delaying ageing process. On the other hand, a diet rich in sugars and carbohydrates promotes formation of AGE (advanced glycosylation end products) which are associated with accelerated ageing. hence, a healthy and well-balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables is necessary to maintain skin in youthful state.

Eat a healthy, well balanced diet -A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals which are important part of anti-oxidative pathway of our body. These anti- oxidants counteract the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species on cells, thus preventing cellular damage and delaying ageing process. On the other hand, a diet rich in sugars and carbohydrates promotes formation of AGE (advanced glycosylation end products) which are associated with accelerated ageing. hence, a healthy and well-balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables is necessary to maintain skin in youthful state.

Make sure to exercise most days of the week -Regular exercise improves blood circulation and boosts immunity of the body, both of which help the skin as well to stay young and healthy.

Avoid repetitive facial expressions -Facial expressions occur because of contraction of facial muscles present below the skin, and attached to the skin. In the early stages, these lines are temporary occurring only on expressions, hence called expression lines or dynamic wrinkles. But repetitive contraction of these muscles lead to development of permanent lines.

Cut down on alcohol consumption -Alcohol cause dehydration of the body and skin, making our skin look older.

Stop smoking -Smoking accelerates skin ageing, making it dull and damaged. So quit smoking to keep your skin young and glowing.