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Maintaining healthy skin as we age is not rocket science, as long as you avoid certain behaviours. Sun exposure, smoking, insufficient hydration and nutritional deficiencies can all have an impact on skin health. Find out more:

1. Protect yourself from the sun

“When it comes to skin aging, this is really the most important point,” says Dr. Marie-Ève Pinet, dermatologist at MAclinique Lebourgneuf. We know that exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays will accelerate the process. In addition to skin cancers, UV rays from the sun promote the development of wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation spots. You should therefore try to avoid sunbathing in a tanning booth or voluntarily outside.”

The specialist likes to repeat that sunscreens are probably the best anti-aging creams. What kind of sunscreen is best? Look for a sun protection factor of at least 30 and the UVA label on the packaging. “You also want to see the Canadian Dermatology Association logo to ensure that the product is non-irritating or pore-clogging. Protect your ears and lips also, and wear a wide-brimmed hat,” notes Dr. Pinet.

2. Stop smoking

Tobacco contributes to premature aging of the skin, particularly in certain areas, such as around the mouth. Several toxic substances in cigarettes contribute to skin cell degradation and stress, creating free radicals. Not only can cigarettes cause wrinkles, they can also increase skin pigmentation and the appearance of brown spots.

3. Moisturize!

“Another important point to consider for healthy skin is preserving the skin’s barrier function and keeping it well hydrated,” reminds the doctor. “As we age, it becomes progressively more difficult for our skin to stay naturally hydrated, on top of all the other factors that can dry it out. That’s why it’s important to cleanse well and use a good moisturizing cream or lotion.”

Dr. Pinet recommends using a mild product with little or no fragrance to wash your body. Lukewarm water is preferable, and take care not to wash too often or for too long. Cream or lotion? “Someone with drier skin should opt for a cream rather than a lotion, unscented here too, and the best time to apply it is after washing the skin,” says the specialist.

4. Healthy diet

While there’s no clear link between the quality of food you eat and anti-skin-ageing properties, a dietary deficiency can nonetheless be detrimental to skin health. According to Dr. Marie-Ève Pinet, seniors who drink enough water, avoid alcohol and eat a balanced and varied diet have every chance of ensuring good skin tissue repair and aging well.

Starting at 60, skin can become progressively drier and more irritated. A bath (or shower) can alleviate itching and prevent dryness. Some advice: Use a moisturizing soap. Wash with a moisturizing, gentle, fragrance-free bar soap or body cleanser. Moisturizing ingredients that can help reduce dryness include glycerine, hyaluronic acid and lanolin. Wash with lukewarm water. Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils, which can increase dryness. Refrain from taking long baths and showers. Baths or showers should last no longer than 10 minutes. You may find that you don’t need to bathe every day. Source: American Academy of Dermatology

*This article is taken from Virage magazine and was written by Johanne Martin.